Congratulations on welcoming a new furry member to your family! Puppies are delightful, but they require plenty of effort to learn about their new surroundings and how to behave. While it may seem overwhelming, we have some top tips to help transform your pup into a well-behaved dog!
Find Their Motivation
Every dog is unique, so discovering what motivates your furry friend is crucial. Some dogs go crazy for treats, like hotdogs, cooked chicken, or freeze-dried lamb liver. These “high-value” rewards make training time more enjoyable and keep them engaged. If your dog isn’t food-motivated, you can use squeaky toys or play a quick game of tug-of-war to keep them interested.
Keep Training Sessions Positive and Fun
Training should be as enjoyable for you as it is for your puppy. Approach each session with a light-hearted attitude, remembering that this time is crucial for bonding with your new friend. When training is fun and exciting, your dog is more likely to respond quickly and learn effectively.
Always end each session on a positive note. Reward your pup with plenty of praise, treats, or even a game of fetch. This positive reinforcement will motivate them to work hard and eagerly look forward to their next training session.
Establish House Rules
Before bringing your new pup home, discuss with your family the rules they should follow within the house. Determine whether they are allowed on the couch, where they can play, where they should eat, and any other boundaries. Having a clear understanding of the rules from the start prevents confusion and promotes a harmonious home environment.
For example, if you don’t want your pup jumping on the couch or dashing out the door, consider using baby gates to restrict access until they learn the rules. Provide them with a cozy bed where they can enjoy family time, establishing their own special spot.
Crate Training
Dogs have a natural inclination for a comfortable and secure den when their surroundings become overwhelming. Crate training provides them with a dedicated space they can call their own. Additionally, it aids in house-training, prevents furniture chewing, and keeps your pup safe when you’re away.
To ensure your dog willingly enters their crate, never use it as a form of punishment. Instead, encourage them to go in by dropping treats just inside the crate and using a cheerful tone of voice while saying “go to bed.” Repeat this process until they associate “go to bed” with calmly entering their crate. You can also use the crate during mealtime to reinforce positive crate conditioning.
Socialize Early and Often
Proper socialization is essential for puppies to develop into happy, confident, and well-adjusted dogs. Expose your puppy to different sounds, smells, sights, people, and places they will encounter in the world. Make sure to bring treats along to maintain their attention and reward them for behaving appropriately in challenging situations.
If your puppy feels nervous, allow them to move away from the stimulus while rewarding their curiosity with treats and praise. Visiting your favorite pet shop, a hardware store, or a bustling park are excellent opportunities to expose your puppy to new experiences.
Discourage Bad Behavior Immediately
Puppies sometimes engage in unwanted behaviors, like jumping, nipping, or improper greetings. Consistently discouraging these behaviors will expedite the training process. For instance, if your pup jumps on you as you enter the door, simply turn your back and ignore them until they settle down. Once calm, provide positive reinforcement.
To curb nipping or biting, pretend to be in pain by exclaiming “OUCH” loudly. This startles most puppies, causing them to stop the behavior. If loud noises don’t deter them, swap your hand for a toy or bone to redirect their attention.
Having a well-behaved dog who garners compliments wherever you go is entirely achievable. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or in need of support, consider reaching out to 1mquotes. They offer unique training and socialization programs tailored to meet the specific needs of your new puppy.
