Starting Your Puppy Off Right!

 People often inquire about the ideal age to begin puppy training. The answer is right away! Here are some quick tips on the steps to training and maintaining an obedient and balanced dog from the beginning.

New puppy owners frequently focus extensively on finding the right accessories, puppy treats, or bed. Unfortunately, they often spend little or no time considering how or what they will teach their new puppy. While a puppy needs nutritious food and a safe, warm place to live, another equally powerful and important biological necessity is the need for a strong pack leader.

Be the Pack Leader

Puppies are naturally predisposed to follow a pack leader. A pack leader is, by definition, strong, stable, and consistent—traits that many new puppy owners tend to overlook. Some clients may be strong leaders in their professional lives, but at home, they may become indulgent with their dogs. Subsequently, they may come to me perplexed as to why their dog won't behave.

Puppies sense our levels of confidence and will take control if they perceive us as weak. When this happens, undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, leash-pulling, or anxiety may develop.

The most crucial thing you can do is become your puppy’s pack leader. This role shouldn’t commence when your dog is six months old or misbehaving; it should be maintained throughout the entire dog training experience. To ensure your new puppy grows into a healthy, balanced dog, you must demonstrate leadership from day one!

Visit to the Veterinarian

Regular veterinary care is a cornerstone of good health for your puppy. It's essential for your puppy to maintain a nutritious diet and exercise routine to stay healthy and balanced. Additionally, your vet can provide advice on heartworm, flea, and tick preventative care. While various elements contribute to keeping your puppy healthy, it all begins with the first visit to the vet.

Housebreaking

All dogs instinctively avoid eliminating in their dens. Between two to four months of age, most pups grasp the concept of housebreaking quite easily due to their natural programming.

In the early days of housebreaking, ensure the puppy has a designated place to relieve itself, where it feels safe and the environment is familiar. Every morning, bring your puppy outside to the same general area. Consistency is crucial throughout the process for your puppy to develop the habit.

After your new puppy successfully goes outside, it's essential to reward the good behavior. It doesn’t have to be a grand celebration, but a simple, quiet approval or a treat can convey the message of a job well done.

Avoid punishing your puppy for accidents and refrain from creating a negative association with bodily functions. Stay calm and assertive, quietly moving the puppy to the designated place.

Dog Walking

Ensure your puppy gets safe exercise too! As the puppy's pack leader, assist in expending their energy in a productive way, which, for all dogs, includes a daily walk.

Walking in front of your new puppy establishes you as the pack leader. Conversely, if your dog controls the walk, he assumes the role of the pack leader. You should be the first one out the door and the first one in, with your puppy beside or behind you during the walk.

Additionally, consult your veterinarian about potential risks of long-term bone development problems, parvovirus, and other health issues before implementing an exercise routine.