When it comes to puppy training one of the main questions that trainers get asked is “could it be to early to start training ? The answer is No.
From about eight weeks onwards your puppy can benefit from training. What’s more it’s very much the “stitch in time” principle. The earlier you get started, the less chance there is for your dog to form bad habits, and any issues that arise can be addressed before any bad behaviours become ingrained.
As I have said before, dogs like to know the rules and they like black and white. Grey areas is usually where the issues come from. So puppy training is the perfect time to set the ground rules, let them know from the start what is acceptable and what is not. This is the actual secret to “getting lucky” with a good dog rather than getting unlucky with that bad dog that runs rampant.
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This is related to one pitfall that many people fall into.
It is the “Puppy syndrome” – They are young, they are cute, they are furry, I want them to like me, so they don’t have to follow the rules.
While I don’t want to rain on the parade, ( I’ve been known to do a bit of the “they’re so cute” gushing) Establishing the rules through training will solve so many problems before they become big problems. Enjoy your time with the dog while they are a puppy, but just remember they will become an adolescent/adult dog in a few short months.
Which brings me to treats. People also seem to think puppies need more treats. I’m not against giving dogs treats. If they have been a good dog in general, sure, give them a treat, but don’t make it part of the training process. It can set up some real issues around the puppy seeing you as a leader or a vending machine.
For puppy training the main training principles are the same. Firstly be consistent, this is essential to establishing and communicating the rules to your puppy. It is probably the number one determining factor of success.
Use praise – a lot- especially at the puppy stage where you are bonding. Let them know when they have done the right thing ! I mean happy, enthusiastic praise !
Keep the sessions short to begin with – attention spans usually are shorter for younger dogs, so 10-15minutes as a maximum. (usually a few shorter sessions scattered throughout the day is best)
Get some expert advise. There are lots of books and videos out there, some good, some not so good. Some I have seen, I don’t even know what they are going on about, so I don’t know how a young dog will figure it out. It’s best to get expert advice from a trainer to make sure your on the right track.
You may also consider Puppy Pre-School to make sure you have all the bases covered. Even if you have owned dogs before ,sometimes there is more up to date information to be discovered. It’s always good to get a refresher on basic do’s and don’ts
Getting to the overall point. To avoid behaviour issues, you want to get a proper bond with your puppy, get communication, leadership and rules established.
Bottom line, training is the best investment you can make for your puppy, and will ensure they are off to a great start.
If you would like to know more please contact me.
These are some of the areas we provide dog training for in Sydney – if you are not listed, please still contact us ! The Hills – Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Box Hill, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, Dural, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Kellyville, Kenthurst, Maraylya, Maroota, Nelson, Northmead, North Rocks, Rouse Hill, West Pennant Hills Blacktown and surrounding areas – Acacia Gardens, Dean Park, Doonside, Glendenning, Glenwood, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Kings Park, Lalor Park, Marayong, Marsden Park, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, Toongabbie, Vineyard, Riverstone
