Valuable Tips for Preparing and Raising Your Dogs
Introduction
We all dream of raising the perfect dog—a pup that's a canine good citizen, well-behaved, and always reliable. These dreams can become a reality with the right training, care, and commitment. Remember, puppies start learning from day one and need to be taught what is right and wrong and how to socialize properly.
Key Tips for Training and Raising Your Puppy
Discover valuable tips for preparing and raising your dog. Learn how to establish authority, use positive training methods, and create a fun and effective training routine for your puppy.
1. Constant Supervision and Scheduling
- Puppies are like children, requiring constant supervision and a structured routine. Until your pup is trained, keep an eye on him at all times. When you can't, crate him. Establish a schedule that includes bathroom breaks, feeding times, naps, walks, playtime, and training sessions. An active day leaves no time for mischief.
2. Establish Authority
- Teach your pup to respect you. Dogs are pack animals and instinctively follow a leader. Establishing your authority clearly and consistently will make training easier, as the pup will obey and not challenge your leadership.
3. Positive Training Methods
- Use only positive training techniques. Never yell at, hit, or punish your dog. Such actions are not only cruel but can lead to behavioral issues. Avoid using electric shocks, prong collars, or sprays as they might harm the dog.
4. “Nothing in Life is Free”
- Implement this widely accepted training tool where your pup learns that to get something like affection, a walk, or a treat, he must behave well.
5. Teach the Meaning of “No”
- From day one, discourage undesirable behaviors like jumping, mouthing, tug-of-war, barking, or running out of doors. Praise good behavior and ignore or walk away when there’s bad behavior. The pup will learn that misbehavior leads to losing attention and playtime.
6. Correct Misbehavior Immediately
- To correct behavior, catch the pup in the act and startle him by rattling a can of stones. Immediately after, redirect him to the correct behavior, reward, and praise him. Puppies don’t recall past events, so reprimanding after the fact is ineffective.
7. Positive Name Association
- Always use his name positively. Avoid saying “Bad TOM” or “No Tom,” as this can cause confusion. The pup should associate his name with happy events like hugs, petting, walks, and treats. This ensures he comes willingly when called.
8. Short and Fun Training Sessions
- Create a training routine that’s short and sweet, about 10 minutes, three times a day. Long sessions can be boring, and the pup may lose interest. Make learning fun and use trick training to teach commands like sit, down, and come.
9. Bond and Socialize
- Bond with your pup and make sure he looks forward to spending time with you. Early socialization is crucial. Gradually introduce him to other animals, people, sounds, vehicles, and activities. Take him to parks, and malls, and introduce him to children and other pets.
10. Learn the Basics
- Familiarize yourself with crate training, leash walking, housebreaking, and food training. These are fundamental lessons every pup must master. Understanding the quirks and characteristics of your pup’s breed will give you valuable insights for effective training.
Advanced Training Options
As a pet parent, you have several choices for training your dog:
Self-Training vs. Professional Training:
- Decide whether you want to train your dog yourself or enroll in a professional training school.
Stages of Training:
- Training can involve multiple stages—kindergarten, obedience training, dog sports, showing, and specialized training (e.g., therapy dogs, hearing dogs).
The level of training you choose depends on you and your dog’s learning abilities. Remember, different dogs, like people, have varying talents. Choose wisely, and both you and your pup will enjoy the training journey together.
Conclusion
Raising a well-behaved and happy dog requires time, patience, and commitment. By following these valuable tips, you can ensure a strong bond and a rewarding relationship with your canine companion.
