Puppies sure are one the most adorable things in the world. The existence of puppies alone is a blessing to mankind. However, owning one can be tricky and a mess at the same time. Eventually, puppies will grow into dogs, and the best way to help them grow into well-behaved dogs is through training. Here is ten of the best puppy training tips that may help you transition from having a cute little pup to a well-behaved, obedient adult dog!
1. Set up house rules.
Before welcoming a puppy to your home, it is best to get yourself prepared and motivated. It is easy to give in to the pup’s cuteness especially when he is within reach and vulnerable to your cradling. However, you reckon to inform yourself that there are things you have to limit your puppy in doing before things become too difficult to handle. You can do this by setting up rules. You have to orient both yourself and your pup that there are dos and don’ts in your household. Like, is it okay for him to stay on the couch? Should he sleep beside you? Or does he have his own bed? If you have settled the rules, it will be much easier for you to sort things out from there.
2. Give your pup a good name.
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People tend to name their puppies according to their favourite colour, after a TV show character they are currently obsessing, their favourite food, and even their ex’s name just for the fun of it. You have to remember that once you give your pup a name, you have to be consistent with it. Their name will be of great help when training them consequently. Associating positive comments after saying your pup’s name will help them recognise themselves easier.
You have an infinite choice of names, and we reckon that you will be wise about it. A recommended method when giving your dog a name is to choose a one- or two-syllable name.
3. Teach him to come when called.
Before your pup masters any other tricks, teaching him to come when being called is the first command that should be mastered. You need to catch your pup’s undivided attention when doing this. You can start by calling your pup by his name, followed by a positive comment and a happy expression: ‘Come, Lucy! Good girl.’ Later on, they will get the hang of it and just come with only their names being called.
4. Introduce your puppy to everything.
When we say ‘everything,’ that means everything. You do not want to have an aggressive little pup that will bark on anything he sees. Once your puppy had all his necessary vaccinations, expose him to as many people as you can, from all ages and races. Introduce him to other pets and dogs in all places, shapes, and sizes until he feels comfortable. That way, your puppy will be calmer when dealing with various things.
5. Potty training.
When potty-training a puppy, it is best not to be too harsh when your puppy makes mistakes. It sure can be messy, but it is guaranteed that your patience will be paid off. Especially at the beginning of the training, carrying your pup outside after eating or waking up rather than asking them to make their own way outside is advised so they don’t have a chance to make a mistake. (Read: How to Effectively House-Train a Puppy)
6. Crate training.
The crate can be your puppy’s personal territory. It will provide them a sense of security when they are left alone at home. Additionally, it will help them become easier to transport. Learn more about crate training here!
7. Discourage your puppy from biting, nipping, or chewing.
If you deem to save your brand-new trainers or flip-flops, discourage your puppy from his chewing behaviour as early as you can. As easy as it is to let them get away with these things due to their adorableness, you would not want this behaviour to remain until they become adult dogs. Rather than reprimanding them, it would be easier to switch whatever it is they are chewing with a chew toy. In cases wherein your pup is nipping or biting you, you can pretend to be in great pain and your puppy will immediately stop. (Read: Tips to Keep Dogs from Chewing Everything)
8. Teaching tricks in intervals.
What can make you more proud than your puppy learning his first trick? When your puppy is young, his ability to concentrate is limited. So when you teach your pup a trick, it is best to teach him in short or five-minute intervals.
9. Reward your puppy for being good.
Positive reinforcement is the key to having a well-behaved puppy. It is essential to praise them every time they have done well. This will help them know what to do from what not to do. You can also reward them with toys and treats.
10. End training sessions positively.
Your pup worked hard to please you during the entire training session. Giving him time to play along with praises, petting, and treats would help him get excited the next time you try to train him.
Know more about your pup’s behaviour and ways to train him here!
