Training Tips
You and your puppy have a lot to learn during the first year! Your puppy must also learn some basic obedience skills and household manners. It is up to you to teach your puppy to be a well behaved dog, and a well educated owner makes a better teacher!
The first priority is housebreaking. Using a dog crate will help with the housetraining. Dog crates also provide a safe, secure place for your puppy to stay for short periods of time.
Dogs need to know who is in charge. To establish yourself as the leader of the pack, you must gain the respect of your dog through proper canine care, motivational obedience lessons, appropriate corrections, and praise. Be patient, confident and fair. Your dog will respect you.
An obedience course can make the difference between an okay dog and a great dog! The canine socialization is as important as the skills that your dog taught in obedience classes. Select an instructor that uses a positive approach. These classes will teach how to teach your dog to walk on a leash, come when called, sit, down, and stay. It is good for the dogs to learn in a setting with other dogs and dog owners. The course is worth the time and effort.
Decide on the "house rules" when your puppy is young and then enforce the rules. If it is not okay with you to have your dog on the sofa, then never let the dog on the sofa. Provide your puppy with a blanket or dog bed in the living room or family room so your puppy has a comfortable place to nap. Some people have some rooms off limits to the dog. Be consistent and your puppy will learn to stay out of these rooms. You may want the dining room off limits during mealtime or the study may be off limits all the time. Baby gates are quite helpful during the training period
You do not have to accept unacceptable behavior! Excessive barking, jumping, and nipping are problems that can be resolved. If you need help with a more serious behavior problem, seek help from a qualified person.
- Good Owners, Great Dogs by Brian Kilcommons
- Mother Knows Best by Carol Lea Benjamin
- How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend by The Monks of New Skete
- Dog Problems by Carol Lea Benjamin