Training dogs as puppies is one of the most important steps in raising a well-behaved and happy companion. Puppies are full of energy, curiosity, and potential, but they also need guidance to develop good habits. Starting training early helps to build a strong bond with your dog and sets the foundation for positive behaviour throughout their life. In this article, we will explore the reasons why training as puppies is so crucial, what methods work best, and how you can ensure your dog grows up to be a well-rounded adult who can navigate the world with confidence.
Why Training as Puppies Is Essential
1. Builds Strong Habits Early On:
Puppies are like sponges – they absorb everything around them. By starting training early, you can teach your puppy the right way to navigate different situations. Training helps prevent unwanted habits such as chewing on furniture, barking excessively, or jumping on guests. Good habits, such as sitting before receiving food or waiting calmly at the door, are easier to teach when they’re young.
2. Socialisation is Key:
Training as puppies also includes socialising them with other dogs, novel items and people. Socialisation is essential for puppies to feel comfortable in new environments and around strangers. A well-socialised puppy will grow up to be a confident and friendly adult dog, less likely to develop behavioural problems like fear or aggression. Enrolling your puppy in training courses, such as those offered at Dogz at Home, is an excellent way to provide structured and safe socialisation opportunities.
3. Reduces Behavioural Issues Later in Life:
Many behavioural problems in adult dogs stem from a lack of training and socialisation during puppyhood. Dogs that aren’t properly trained as puppies can become anxious, destructive, or aggressive. Training helps your dog understand their boundaries and reinforces positive behaviours. This makes them easier to manage as they grow older and more independent, and so enable them to handle any new situations they find themselves in.
Best Practices for Training Puppies
1. Use Positive Reinforcement:
One of the most effective training methods for puppies is positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your puppy for good behaviour rather than punishing them for mistakes. Treats, praise, and toys can all serve as rewards when your puppy follows a cue or behaves well. Puppies respond better to rewards, and this method strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
2. Start with Basic Cues:
Before diving into advanced tricks, it’s important to begin with the basics. Cues such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down” are the building blocks of good behaviour. These cues not only help your dog become obedient but also keep them safe in potentially dangerous situations. For example, a well-trained puppy that responds to “come” can avoid running into traffic or chasing after another animal.
3. Consistency is Key:
Training as puppies requires time, patience and consistency. Your puppy won’t learn everything overnight, and it’s important to practise regularly. Consistency in the cues you use, the tone of your voice, and the rewards you give will help your puppy understand what is expected of them. Training sessions should be short but frequent, as puppies have shorter attention spans. Aim for 3-6 minutes of training a few times a day to avoid overwhelming your pup.
4. Crate Training and Housebreaking:
One of the first things most new puppy owners want to address is housebreaking, or teaching the puppy where it’s appropriate to go to the bathroom. Crate training is a great method for this. A crate gives your puppy a safe space and helps establish a routine. Since puppies don’t like to soil their sleeping area, they will naturally try to wait to relieve themselves until they are let outside. With regular potty breaks and praise when they go in the right spot, your puppy will learn quickly.
Learn more about puppy training and how Dogz at Home can assist you with these early stages.
When to Start Training Puppies
Puppies can begin basic training as soon as they come home, typically at around 8 weeks of age. This early stage is the perfect time to introduce them to the concept of learning. Puppies at this age are eager to please and curious about the world. Training sessions should be short and fun to keep their interest. Introducing them to different environments and experiences during this period can also help prevent anxiety and fear later in life.
1. The First Few Weeks at Home:
In the first few weeks, focus on simple cues and housebreaking. Teaching your puppy to come when called and to sit on cue is a great starting point. You can also begin lead training at this stage. Make sure to use a lightweight lead and collar to get your puppy used to the sensation of being on a lead.
2. Training Through Adolescence:
As your puppy grows, they will enter an adolescent phase, usually around 6 to 12 months of age. This is when they may start testing boundaries and displaying more independence. Consistent training during this period is critical to reinforcing the lessons learned in puppyhood. Continuing with regular training sessions and enrolling your puppy in more advanced classes can help them through this challenging phase.
Professional Help: Puppy Training Classes
While many owners can train their puppies at home, attending a professional puppy training class can provide additional support. Trainers at Dogz at Home specialise in teaching both owners and puppies the best methods for successful training. These classes not only help you stay on track but also give your puppy a chance to socialise with other dogs, an important part of their development, in a safe and controlled manner.
Puppy training classes cover everything from basic obedience to more advanced cues. They also teach essential skills like walking on a lead, responding to cues, and behaving appropriately in different environments. These structured classes are a great way to ensure your puppy receives the guidance they need during their formative months.
Overcoming Common Puppy Training Challenges
Training as puppies comes with its challenges. Puppies are still learning about the world, and it’s normal for them to make mistakes. Here are a few common training hurdles and how to overcome them:
1. Chewing and Nipping:
Puppies explore their world with their mouths, so it’s natural for them to chew and nip at things. To address this, provide plenty of chew toys and redirect your puppy’s attention when they start chewing on something inappropriate. If your puppy nips at you, say “oops” in a gentle manner and give them a toy instead. Consistency will help them learn what is acceptable to chew.
2. Jumping on People:
Puppies are often excited to see new people and may jump up to greet them. While it may seem cute when they’re small, this behaviour can become problematic as they grow. Teach your puppy to sit or keep 4 feet on the floor when greeting people instead of jumping. Reward them with treats and praise when they do this. Always make sure treats are readily available and of high value!
3. Lead Pulling:
Lead training can be challenging, as puppies are often eager to explore their surroundings. To prevent pulling, stop walking whenever your puppy pulls on the lead. Wait until they return to your side before continuing. Reward them well and often when they walk calmly by your side.
Final Thoughts
Training a puppy is an exciting journey that lays the foundation for a happy and well-behaved dog. Starting training as puppies helps to establish good habits early on, preventing behavioural problems later in life. Whether you’re teaching basic cues or working on housebreaking, patience and consistency are key. Professional puppy training classes, such as those offered by Dogz at Home, can provide expert guidance to ensure your puppy grows into a well-mannered adult, who can cope well with the world.
Remember, a well-trained dog is a joy to be around, and the effort you put into training as puppies will pay off for years to come. You will also have a dog that can go anywhere with you.
For more information, visit Dogz at Home or contact us for details about our training courses.