When and How to Train Your Puppy

As for the when, the answers is quite simple. Ideally, you should start training your puppy as soon as you bring him/her home if you want to achieve optimum results. Although, you should go easy on them at first.

Puppy training can be performed by yourself or you can leave that to a professional puppy/dog trainer. Either way, the important thing is that puppy training is dog-friendly and not violent or in any way unpleasant for the dog. Otherwise, the puppy might get frustrated, scared or even aggressive some time later in life.

As for the training methods, there are basically two types of dog training: behavioral training and obedience training.

Behavioral training is very useful to start as soon as possible because it prevents some behavioral issues that a dog might develop later in life. These issues include: jumping on people, aggressiveness towards other dogs or other animals, obsessions with an object, tail chasing, chewing on and pulling their leash, incessant barking or whining, chasing cars or bicycles, overprotectiveness or jealousy, mood swings, hyperactivity, separation anxiety, etc.

With this type of training it is particularly important to be consistent. For example, if you want your puppy to learn not to sleep in your bed, then there should be no exceptions! If you sometimes give in and sometimes you forbid him, the puppy will easily get confused because they’re receiving mixed signals. Although, behavioral training is not just about training your dog, it’s also about training yourself. If you want to communicate with your dog you need to learn to recognize how he expresses his needs and instincts. You need to learn to predict your puppy’s behavior, and then figure out how to address it. Proper exercise and physical activity is also important in this type of training. If your dog is energetic and you haven’t walked them in a day or two, he won’t be willing to listen to your commands.

Obedience training involves teaching your puppy to obey instructions like sit, stay, heel and come through dog whispering, clicker training, positive reinforcement, reward training, etc. Training sessions should last no longer than 15 minutes up to three times a day. Anything longer than that and your pup will get fidgety and won’t pay attention to you. Make it a habit to train your pooch right before their meal so that they associate training with a reward. 

Important Do's and Don'ts on Training Your Puppy

We’ve already talked about why training is important. But how you train your puppy is equally as important.

Puppy training is successful only when performed properly. If you’re being too strict the pup will paralyze and won’t be able to understand what’s being asked of him. On the other hand, being over-indulgent can turn the training into a play.

Let’s now dig in on dos ad don’ts in puppy training:

Dos

Do concentrate on your pup while you’re training them. While you’re trying to teach your pup you need to be laser focused on their behavior. In the beginning they’ll be confused and act silly, but as you continue with training this will change.

Do make it fun. Your training session need to be enjoyable so that your puppy is willing to cooperate.

Do teach him one command at a time. If you send them too many signals your pup will be puzzled and won’t learn much.

Do reward them for good behaviors. When your puppy does something well – like peeing or pooping outside, make sure you give him that special treat. This way, he will associate this with peeing outside and will be more likely to do it again. This technique is also great for controlling play-biting, chewing on their leash, etc.

Do be kind but firm. Sometimes they need a bit firmness in your voice just to get them back on track.

Do walk him every day and give him plenty of space to run and exercise. Physical activity is crucial for healthy development.

Do be consistent with your rewards and expectations. Your pooch might get confused if you are inconsistent.

Do be patient and tolerant. Don’t go bananas if they don’t get it right away. Dogs are smart, they’ll learn.

Do react immediately if you don’t approve their behavior. Dogs live in the present, so they won’t understand if you punish them for something they did hours or even minutes ago.

Do keep your training sessions short. Your puppy’s attention span is quite short, so it’s much more effective if you have several shorter sessions a day, rather than a long one.

Do socialize your puppy and introduce them to other puppies and dog. It’s best to socialize them while they are still very young, so that they learn to be comfortable around other dogs. 

Don’ts

Don’t ever be rough to pup when he/she approaches you. They may remember that and associate that with you. So, next time you call them they may hesitate before coming to you. Don’t let your pooch fear you.

Don’t let your puppy forget what they’ve been thought. If you taught you pup, say, to bring you a Frisbee back, repeat that every once in a while so that they don’t forget it.

Don’t set your expectations too high – give your puppy some time.

Don’t get all fired up while training.

Don’t scream at your dog. He can hear you quite well, and yelling won’t help.

Don’t frustrate your dog by ignoring him. If s/he doesn’t do what you want them to do, that’s not a way to go.

Don’t reward your dog when s/he does something wrong. This way s/he’ll never learn.

Don’t expect your dog to understand what you’re saying. They don’t speak your language. That’s why you’re training them in the first place.

Don’t repeat yourself over and over again. This way your puppy will basically classify your commands as ‘spam’ and will learn to ignore it.

Don’t give up easily. Proper training takes time and patience.

Why It is Important to Train Your Puppy

The saying that dog is a man’s best friend is not just because some important guy said so. It’s because dogs are extremely loyal and they get easily attached to humans, unlike cats or other pets who are more independent and prefer to be free.

Some people simply can’t imagine their life without a dog. But since dogs are a separate species from us, they have their own instincts and needs. When a puppy comes to your home, they need to learn a lot to adapt to their new life, and we have to learn about them too. 

In order for a dog to live happily and harmoniously with humans, they need to learn some boundaries. Dogs can be all over the place if they aren’t trained properly. If you want your dog to be your companion, then you need to teach him some important skills.

And the best time to do this is while they’re still little.

If you don’t take the time to educate yourself and train you pooch, you won’t be able to help them adapt to their new environment. This will most likely lead to future misunderstandings and frustration.

Training your dog is important for two main reasons:

1.   Training helps you and your dog live in harmony

2.   It provides mental stimulation and gives your dog a sense of purpose in life

We already talked about the benefits of the first reason, but now we’re going to say something about the second, and perhaps more important reason for training your puppy.

First of all, to understand what a dog needs, we have to bear in mind that dogs are domesticated wolves. And wolves live in packs, in a strictly balanced hierarchical society. This society is governed by strong leaders, Alpha males and females. Other wolves sacrifice their own lives to protect their offspring, because only Alpha males and females are allowed to reproduce. This shows just how different they are from other species in the animal kingdom.

Wolves are extremely loyal to their leaders and submissive to the hierarchy. They disregard themselves and serve to the pack, because that’s simply part of their nature. It’s how they add meaning and purpose to their life.

It is this subordination to the pack that actually lead to their domestication. If they were completely independent and living on their own in the wild, humans wouldn’t be able to tame them in the first place. They simply wouldn’t need anyone.

Wolves also have a complex communication system. If there’s a conflict in the pack, they always show an auditory or a facial sign prior to actually attacking the other dog. Typically, there is little or no fierce conflict in packs, because everybody knows what’s at stake and how damaging it can be to a whole pack if one of them dies or gets severely hurt.

So, dogs, just like wolves, need a firm but fair leader.

And to your dog, that leader is you.

Any dog that’s acting aggressively and impulsively is probably because they either have a poor leader, or they don’t have one at all.

That’s why it’s of utmost importance to be a good ‘pack’ leader to your dog, so that both your dog and you are able to make the most out of your relationship. 

How to Build Mutual Trust and Respect with Your Puppy

Dogs are very sensitive and when they don’t trust someone, they won’t be able to learn anything from them. Why? Well, this mechanism it’s not very different from humans’. When you’re distrustful towards someone, you can’t relax and go with the flow. In this particular case, dogs can’t let go and enjoy the moment. Every puppy is a bit scared when they come to their new home. They usually whine in the beginning because they’ve been separated from their mother and brothers and sisters. So, be patient and give your pup some time. Let them get to know you.

This behavior is perfectly normal and after a day or two the puppy will adapt to its new environment provided that you treat him kindly.

But sometimes people make mistakes while trying to please their puppy in every way they possibly can.

While making your new pup feel special and praiseworthy is important, it shouldn’t be the only thing you do. It’s not that different from raising a child, actually. Parents who are constantly showering their children with affection and gifts and who indulge their every whim usually end up having a spoiled and disobedient child.

If you want your puppy to be obedient and happy, you can’t just give in on everything they want just because they’re so cute. That way they’ll never learn to respect you and won’t do anything for you. Instead, they’ll expect you to do everything for them. Setting some boundaries is for their own good too. Because once they get used to being treated like a king all the time, once you do something they don’t like or when somebody else does that, they may get aggressive or frustrated.

That’s why you need to be gentle but firm.

There obviously needs to be a balance in a relationship with your puppy – a mutual understanding and respect. While it’s good to praise you puppy to make them feel safe and loved, you also need to teach them and let them know their boundaries.

In short, you need to earn their trust by making them feel warm and snug, so that you can teach your puppy self-discipline and self-control.

Getting a puppy is like having a baby

Puppies are cute and small, but don’t let their cuteness fool you. Just like babies, they are serious business. When they arrive at your home, everything will be changed.

You’ll become a professional poop cleaner, for starters. You’ll find yourself cleaning after them ten times a day, because they won’t be able to control their peeing and pooping for a while.

They demand constant attention, while they’re awake, that is.

You’ll be talking about your new puppy to everyone. And while somebody else is talking you’ll be thinking about what they’re doing at that moment.

You’ll start buying those toys and puppy stuff like crazy. Yes, one to two toys is enough, but he would really have fun with that puppy activity ball… and oh that puppy collar would look so good on him!

In the teething phase, they will chew on about anything and everything that comes in their way. While you can’t hide your furniture, I recommend you hide those Prada shoes while you still can.

Sure, they’ll give you a hard time sometimes, but what they’ll give you in return is priceless. Plus, you’ll never be bored again! I mean ever. 

How to choose the right puppy

Choosing a puppy is a big deal. It requires commitment, dedication, time and energy. And most important of all – love.

There are a lot of things to consider before you actually go and start searching for your puppy. Needless to say, a dog isn’t a toy, and he or she won’t be cute and little forever. Each dog will develop traits and personality of their own, regardless of the breed they are, so, you need to be ready for that.

If you are not a true dog lover or if you lead a very busy life, are constantly in a hurry and don’t have anyone to watch over for your dog, don’t even bother getting one, because sooner or later you will regret it. And so will you dog.

So, in order to avoid this mistake, there are ten simple question you need to answer if you are thinking about getting a puppy.

Let’s get started:

1.   Do you live on your own or with a spouse/family?

If you live on your own, then you should have someone to leave your dog to if you happen to go, say, on a business trip for a day or two. If your job is very demanding and are absent very often, then you probably shouldn’t get a dog. If, on the other hand, you have family member(s) who also love dogs, you have nothing to worry about. Although, you do need to ask your family members whether they would like to have a dog around the house, so that the dog would feel happy and safe.

2.   Are there any children in your family?

If you do have children, then your dog needs to love being around children, and vice versa. You need to choose a dog breed that gets along well with children, although the general rule is that almost every dog loves being around children. That is, unless they have been mistreated. Also, you need to teach the children to respect the dog and treat him/her well.

3.   Do you have other pets?

If you happen to have a dog or a cat already, it’s a good idea to get a puppy rather than an older dog. Why? Because if the dog doesn’t like cats or if it’s dominant and aggressive towards other dogs there’s not much you can do to change them because their personality is already shaped.

4.   Are you a lazybones? 

Be honest with yourself. Are you a sofa spud or are you always on the go? If you want to have a dog, you need to be ready to take your four-legged friend for a walk every day, even several times a day. And yes, even in January at 3 a.m. if necessary!

5.   Is your place big enough for a dog?

If you plan on getting a big size dog like Mastiff or Collie, then you need a yard because these dog breeds are not only big, but they also enjoy having a lot of space where they can run free. A city studio apartment is not really a place for a dog like that.

6.   Can you afford your dog?

The expenses of owning a dog go far beyond just buying it. Depending on the breed, you need to be ready to give an additional $500 – $900 each year. So, before you actually adopt or buy a dog, you need to be aware of the future expenses.

7.   Vet bills?

You need to think about the vet visits and expenses in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises. For example, spaying alone costs around $200, vaccinations cost about $130, vet exams about $100 – $150. The cost of dog food is also something you need to be aware of. For a medium sized dog you need around $120 annually, and for a big dog you need twice as much.

If you are adopting a puppy with someone else, then you should discuss the costs together to see if they fit into your budget and perhaps split them.

8.   How tolerant are you?

Are you a tolerant person? Will you be able to put up with puppy’s occasional destructive behavior around the house? Accident like missing the potty pad or chewing up your favorite pair of shoes happen, especially when they are still going through that chewing phase. The main concern is, can you tolerate that?

9.   What’s your main reason for getting a puppy?

In other words, what’s in it for you? What do you want to get out of that? If you’re getting a dog just because you want to be seen with a fancy poodle while walking around the park, then you probably shouldn’t get a dog in the first place. A dog requires commitment and attention, so you need to be ready to give them that.

10.       Do you have the time and energy to dedicate to you dog?

If you lead a hectic life and have a demanding and time-consuming job, you should really think twice before getting a dog. Unless you have a family member(s) living with you or someone who is close to you, the dog will feel lonely and abandoned, and you will eventually have to adopt him or give him to a local shelter. 

How to Crate Train Your Puppy Effectively

There are many benefits of crate training puppy; for one, it is an important part of the housebreaking process. Puppies, like other animals, don't like to soil their sleeping areas, and if a crate is set up as a bed, the puppy will leave the crate to do his or her business. Crates are useful for keeping dogs safe at night and when company comes over, and crate training puts the owner in control of the puppy's bathroom habits. By forming a positive association with the crate, the puppy will feel secure and safe when he's inside.

How to Make Crate Training Pleasant for Both Dog and Owner

To avoid trauma during the crate training experience, he or she should feel at ease. This is easily accomplished by putting an old blanket or shirt on the crate's bottom so the puppy is comfortable. Puppies shouldn't be locked in and left alone if they're being introduced to the crate; it creates trauma and makes it harder for the owner the next time they need the puppy to go into the crate.

Encourage the puppy to go into the crate by putting a small amount of kibble inside. Praise him enthusiastically if he enters the crate; if he doesn't go in, gently pick him up and put him in the crate with the door open. Reassure the puppy with pats and calming words if he seems frightened, and leave him in for a few moments before calling him out of the crate.

Reassuring a Whiny Puppy

Once the puppy is familiar with the crate, he should learn how to go inside and sit quietly. The process goes much the same as before; use his favorite treats to encourage him to get into the crate. Once he's there, close the door gently and let him eat. He'll finish his meal and he'll likely only whine after he's done. If this happens, tap the crate door and say "No" in a firm, strong voice. He'll gradually get the message and learn to remain calm in the crate.

Puppies shouldn't be kept in the crate for an entire day, as they need plenty of breaks to play and relieve themselves. Crates are intended to keep puppies safe at times when they can't be supervised, and they are a great housetraining tool. By following the crate training tips above, owners can answer the question "how to crate train your puppy?"

Why Your Puppy Bites and How To Stop This Bad Behavior

When puppies bite, they think they're just playing, but for their owners it's not much fun. To keep your puppy from continuing this bad habit into adulthood, you'll need to learn about training puppy not to bite. Below you'll learn why your puppy likes to bite and the steps you can take to correct this problem, in a way that your puppy understands.

Why Do Puppies Bite?

Just because your puppy bites doesn't indicate that he's mean or aggressive. Puppies bite because it's a natural instinct and they don't know that it hurts when they bite their owners. Puppies bite as they play with their litter mates and so they think it's fine when they play with you. When teaching puppies not to bite, they must understand that you're telling them that biting is not allowed. By teaching them the correct way, it doesn't take long for puppies to realize that biting is bad behavior.

How To Teach Puppies Not To Bite

To answer the question, how do you train a puppy not to bite, you'll be using an effective training method that's often used by dog owners. Puppies love to play and have fun, and if you take that away from them, they won't like it. When you're playing with your puppy and he bites, say the word, "ouch" and walk away. Your puppy won't be happy when you ignore him and he learns that playtime is over. Continue doing this as long as your puppy bites you while playing. Eventually, your puppy will understand that biting is something that you don't like and he will stop doing this behavior.

Helpful Training Tips

When learning how to train puppies not to bite, the most important thing that you can do is to be consistent. When you're not consistent with your training, this sends mixed signals to your puppy and thus the training becomes ineffective. If there are other people in your household, make sure that everyone knows what to do when your puppy bites. Start training your puppy as quickly as possible when he starts this bad habit.

When you follow the steps above and read the tips on training puppy not to bite, your puppy will soon stop this bad habit. You can also use this method when training your puppy to stop other unacceptable behaviors.