Puppies don’t have the same concept of time as humans do. However, to help the puppy adapt and live in our world there are things they need to learn. Many of those things must be started early to truly make them stick.
Puppies learn many of their life skills in the first year. Statistics show that over 90% of dogs that are abandoned or given up are cited as having “training issues.” By increasing the ability of our dogs to learn we give them an amazing gift. Even if something happens and they need another home later on in life, it will be a much easier transition for a well-trained dog than a “problem dog.”
A puppy learns more about his world in the first year than throughout the rest of his life. Here are eight important lessons for your puppy to learn by his first birthday:
1. Housebreaking
Puppies naturally don’t want to soil their bed or their living area. By using a crate and a few basic training techniques, you can get the puppy to treat your entire home the same way. He will begin to see that this, too, is his home to be kept clean. A consistent schedule until he learns to control himself will mean fewer accidents in the home.
2. Appropriate Chewing
Appropriate chewing is important to teach. Both puppies and adult dogs have a natural tendency to chew – but we want to teach him the difference between things that are off-limits (such as slippers, electrical cords and furniture) and things that are meant to be chewed on (such as recreational bones, toys and chew items). This doesn’t eliminate the natural behavior but instead redirects it. By recognizing the dog’s need to chew, we can eliminate some frustration on our end but still help the puppy maintain proper oral health.
3. Proper Walking Techniques
Walking properly while on a leash is important, not only for exercise, but also as a part of obedience training. The puppy should learn to walk at the speed we are walking, regardless of the surroundings. Whether it’s walking slowly or running he should match our pace without pulling or dragging. He should change directions willingly as we do and when we stop, sit and wait for us to go forward again. Some dogs even learn to sit at street corners, reducing the chances they’ll run into traffic if accidentally let loose.
4. The “Sit” Command
Sit is an important command that an owner should make use of. A puppy that learns to sit patiently while waiting for attention is less likely to learn to jump up and become an annoyance to guests. When comparing the puppy that runs up and sits to be petted to the puppy who runs up and launches himself at you, you will begin to appreciate the puppy that has been taught proper “doggie manners.”
5. The “Come” Command”
Coming when called is a critical life lesson. Of all the lessons your puppy learns this one is non-negotiable and needs to be immediate in response. If you’ve ever had a puppy slip loose and watch helplessly as she ran towards the street you can appreciate the importance. It is vital when calling your puppy you always praise him for responding. Never call the puppy then punish him as this will send a very confusing message.
6. Dealing with Separation Anxiety
Whether the puppy is on a leash, confined in a home, resting in a crate or in a vehicle, the puppy should have enough confidence to know that you will return. Whimpering or clawing at the door and anxious behavior should be avoided. These are habits best prevented as they tend to develop into much bigger problems down the road. Sometimes small steps need to be taken to counteract this habit, as some breeds are naturally more prone to separation anxiety.
7. Allow Handling By Anyone
Be it trimming toenails, basic grooming, ear cleaning, reaching in his mouth, or any other type of handling, the puppy should learn to tolerate it respectfully. He doesn’t have to like it but must tolerate it. This is not only for you but for strangers as well. Remember, groomers, petsitters, and veterinarians are all strangers to your puppy! Start exposing these things early on. Do it in small steps with heavy rewards through both small treats and verbal praise for good behavior.
8. Crate Training
Confinement in a crate is a highly debated topic with many dog owners. However, a puppy that has been properly crate trained can benefit in multiple ways including increased training rates, improved behavior, and gaining a “safe place” of his own. It’s very common, after crate training is complete, to find your puppy simply relaxing in his crate. Start with short training periods and put him in the crate with a chew toy. As he becomes more familiar with the crate, gradually increase the amount of time he is exposed it.
Each of the points mentioned above are not difficult to teach but must be taught early on in life so that the puppy builds a good foundation. By mastering all eight points, you will notice a dramatic difference in the overall behavior and responsiveness of your puppy.
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