Training Your Puppy/Dog

It does not matter if you have a puppy, small dog, large dog, or something in between. Obedience training is really important. In the horse world you will often hear someone say "There are no bad horses, just bad owners." There is some truth to this saying and it can be applied to the dog world, as well. From the beginning of "puppydom" good and bad behavior is learned. Obedience training starts from the beginning. Most animals will want to please their owners and will reap rewards. Your pet will be happier and better behaved. So will you and everyone who interacts with your pet.

The following are some suggestions as to how you can train your puppy:

• Purchase a quality collar that fits
• Purchase a quality leash
• Choose your method of training

• Positive Reinforcement
• Clicker Training
• Praise and Treats
• All of the Above
• 10-15 minutes, 2 to 3X per day. No longer.

• Teach basics first
• Sit
• Stay
• Come
• Walk
• Heel
Remember
• Be Patient
• Be Consistent
• Take Time
• Be Calm
• Use only positive reinforcement, not punishment
Other Suggestions

Not everyone is cut out to train an animal, especially a puppy. Many people have to work and do not have the time. If you find yourself unable to train your animal there are experts that will do just that. Professional dog trainers can be found by calling your vet or someone that you know who used a professional trainer. The yellow pages are a "crap shoot" because you have no referrer, you are just picking someone out of a book. Some trainers will come to your home; some want the dog to stay with them for a period of time. In many areas there are training classes that dog owners can join. Often they are held on the weekends. Your dog and you show up at a designated place, along with other owners and their dogs. The dog trainer will explain what you should do and then you will practice for the next week. The sessions vary as to the length of classes. Classes are less expensive than individual dog training.

Some puppies and dogs are smarter than others. Some learn more quickly. Some are more rambunctious than others. Some have a shorter attention span. Some have more friendly personalities than others. Some are more aggressive than others. No two are the same! Your kindness, consistency, patience, and time spent will pay off. Hang in there!