You're the proud new pet parent of a beautiful young puppy or rescue dog now it's up to you to start their training! Today our Seymour vets share some key dog training tips to help get you started.
Dog Training Tips
It doesn't matter whether you choose to train your new puppy or rescue dog yourself, hire an instructor, or head to classes, every small or big dog can benefit training advice.
At our animal hospital, we regularly encounter a multitude of dogs, and the most well-behaved pets demonstrate a deep respect for their owners as the dominant figure. Consistency is key when training these pups, ensuring they always know what to expect.
Our vets recommend prioritizing your puppy's health and considering spaying or neutering them at the appropriate age to establish a strong foundation. Having your canine companion undergo the procedure of being "fixed" can potentially reduce their aggression towards other dogs, promote a calmer demeanor, and make them more receptive to training.
Establishing House Rules
What is the best kind of dog training advice? It's that dogs respond best to consistency! That's why it's super important to be clear with yourself and your family regarding what you expect of your new pup before you bring him/her home.
It is important to establish clear boundaries for your pup's behavior. Is it acceptable to sleep in your bed? Can your pup curl up on the couch? Can we access all areas of the house? To prevent any confusion or indecision once your new furbaby arrives, it's important to have a clear understanding of your expectations and to map them out beforehand.
Teach Your Pup to Come on Command
Your furry friend needs to master the command "Come!" as one of the first basic commands. Remember to address them by their name when giving a command, and don't forget to provide positive reinforcement like praise or a delicious treat.
Encourage your pet to respond to your command of 'come' in various situations, even when they are distracted by something more enticing. This will help them develop the habit of paying attention and responding to you.
Be Quick with Treats & Praise as Rewards
Always remember to reward your furry friend for good behavior with positive reinforcement in order to ensure a successful training experience. Your pup loves to make you happy and enjoys being rewarded when they do something right. Whether it's a pat on the head, belly rubs, a scratch in their favorite spot, a treat, or a toy, they appreciate these gestures of appreciation.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Similar to making your house child-proof to ensure the safety of your kids, it's important to take steps to puppy-proof your home and keep your new furry friend safe (while also safeguarding your valuable belongings from potential damage). Ensure that your pup has a secure and cozy spot to rest in when not under direct supervision. Your pooch will love relaxing and playing with safe dog-friendly toys in a dog crate or pen.
Know a Teaching Moment When You See One
Rewarding good behavior is important, but it's equally important to acknowledge teaching moments as they occur. Experienced dog owners know that puppies live in the present and require plenty of practice.
Enforcing a rule or lesson requires immediate action after the deed is done. Dogs live in the present moment and quickly forget their past actions. As a result, it's important to correct or train them immediately for them to understand the connection between their behavior and the corrections or techniques used. The best puppy training results are achieved through fast and consistent repetition.
Note: Dogs Do Whatever Makes them Feel Safe or Happy
Many dog owners often make the mistake of attributing human emotions to their canine companions. We acknowledge your affection for your dog and recognize that your furry companion holds a special place in your heart. However, it is important to keep in mind that your canine friend is not a human being.
Dogs don't have malicious intentions to deliberately upset or annoy you. They simply prioritize their own happiness and safety in the moment, which can lead to both positive and negative behaviors. When your dog misbehaves, remember that it was not intentional and address the behavior immediately. Live in the moment with your dog and adopt the same mindset during training.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.