Puppy training can be difficult for both you and your puppy, but it’s ultimately a rewarding experience. It’s important to have a well-trained puppy. Not only does it make you look good in your friends’ and neighbors’ eyes, but it also means fewer accidents for you to clean up. Not to mention, a well-trained puppy means a well-trained dog.
Training a puppy successfully takes preparation, praise and consistency. You want to be the most interesting thing in your puppy’s world. That way you’ll always have the little guy’s attention. Here are some important tips that will make training a little easier and a whole lot more successful.
Start with crate training
You should have a crate ready the first day you bring your puppy home. Because dogs naturally don’t want to soil their sleeping area, a crate will help house train your new friend by establishing a routine for their bathroom breaks. Crates also provide a den-like enclosure. A puppy can be overwhelmed in a new house, especially if you’re gone. A crate, like a den, makes them feel safe; they don’t have to worry about what’s behind them or in their peripheral vision, just what’s going on in front. Another great thing about a crate every dog owner can appreciate is that it keeps your house safe from chewing when you’re out.
Find a distraction-free location
Like kids, puppies aren’t going to have the longest attention span. So to prolong it, try teaching a new command at a location that is free from distractions for no longer than 20 minutes. This will allow your puppy to focus on learning. Once the command is learned, then go ahead and slowly introduce distractions.
Reward good behavior
We’re talking bribery here, plain and simple. When your puppy does something good, reward the behavior immediately with lots of praise and a delicious, healthy treat. If it makes you feel better, you can call the bribery “positive reinforcement.” The point is, your puppy will remember what happens when it does something good, and will continue doing it.
Ignore bad behavior
Puppies believe the entire universe revolves around them, and one of the best things in life is all the attention they get (and treats, of course). If your puppy does something naughty, do not yell or reprimand; good or bad, it is still attention. Simply move away and ignore it. This method is very effective and is used to show the pup what you consider to be unacceptable behavior.
Be consistent
Developing a training routine is key. Make sure you are consistent with everything you do so your puppy doesn’t get confused. The more your puppy does something the easier and more fun it becomes.
Be patient
If you’re calm, your puppy will be less excitable. And please, no yelling—your puppy is just a baby. Remember, you are teaching your pup how to do things correctly because it does not know any better.
