How to Train a Puppy

As a dog trainer, I often get asked for helpful tips about how to train puppies. As I think of them, I will post them on this blog. Here are a few to get you started:

1)  Communicating with your dog.
Communication is needed in order to successfully train your dog.  Never be angry or upset when you start a training session, because a negative attitude could cause the dog to become apprehensive toward being trained.  Getting and keeping your dog’s attention is necessary during a training session.  Start by saying your dog’s name in a happy, upbeat tone of voice, promptly followed by the specific command you want him to obey.  If necessary, immediately enforce the desired behavior, and praise your dog.  In your initial training, if you are commanding the dog to move, at the same time you say your dog’s name, and the command, give a quick snap and immediate release on the dog’s leash.  Then continue by verbally encouraging him to obey.  Remember to always keep the dog’s leash loose.  An additional way to get your dog’s attention is to use a treat, but if you use treats, they should be used sparingly, more as a reward instead of being a bribe for obedience.  Praise works best and is always available.

2)  Be consistent in your training. 
Your dog learns through repetition, so always be consistent in your training.  Mean what you say and say what you mean.  Be careful not to give the dog a command that you do not mean or are not ready to enforce if it’s not obeyed.  If the dog does not instantly obey, and is not immediately corrected, he is still learning, but what he’s learning is that he does not have to obey when you speak.

3)  Keep your training sessions short and happy.
Dog obedience training should be a very enjoyable time for both you and your dog.   Use lots of praise and encouragement.  Ten to fifteen minutes twice a day is a good length of time to practice.  It is better to have a couple short lessons daily than to have one long session.  If the dog is not doing well on a particular exercise, change exercises, or end that training session by giving the dog something easy to do, and then praise the dog.

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