Four Top Puppy Training Tips

You may think puppy training isn’t important.  That little furball is just so cute, especially when he’s chewing on your fingers!

Even though most people enjoy puppy antics, bad dog behavior does get old after a while.  It’s important to remember that your cute little ball of fluff will be an adult dog before you know it.  And you probably won’t think his behavior is so cute then.

Here are four puppy training tips that will keep your dog lovable and happy as he grows up.

1.  Get Him Used To Being Handled

Vet exams and grooming will be a lot easier on the people involved, and much less stressful for your dog if he’s used to being handled.

This is a very easy thing to teach your puppy.  Wait until he’s relaxed and calm.  Then pet him from head to toe.  Remember to keep things calm and low-key.  This is not playtime!

Every day you should look in his ears, check his teeth, and handle his paws.  Pet and handle him, while making this a pleasant, soothing experience for your pup.  You want him to look forward to this special time with you.

2.  Hey, Baby, What’s Your Name?

Teaching your little friend his name is one of the most important parts of training a new puppy.  When he hears you say his name, he should immediately look at you and pay attention to you.

Always call his name in a happy, enthusiastic tone.  Give him a little treat when he comes to you.  Pet him and give him lots of praise.  Do this many, many times during the day.

Don’t make the mistake of saying his name in an angry tone.  You wouldn’t want to go to someone who is obviously unhappy with you, and your puppy won’t either.  And don’t use his name if you’re going to give him a pill, or do something else unpleasant to him.

Only good things should happen when you call his name.  Remember that you’re laying the foundation for him to come to you willingly for the rest of his life.

3.  Nip The Jumping Habit In The Bud

Jumping up on people is a really bad habit.  And it can be dangerous, especially if he jumps up on a small child, or an elderly person and knocks them down.

The best way to stop this problem right away is to never let anyone pet your puppy when he’s standing on his hind legs, even once.  When he does jump up on you, walk off and ignore him.

Remember that all four legs must be on the ground before he gets any attention from you or anyone else.  Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page here.  If one person is not cooperating, you’re going to have a hard time preventing the puppy jumping habit from getting established.  And once established, it’s very hard to break.

4.  Is Your Puppy Biting You?

Play biting is a natural behavior for puppies.  But your puppy needs to learn right away that biting you or any other person is never acceptable.

If your puppy nips you while playing, make a loud “yip!” so he knows he hurt you.  Stop playing with him, walk away, and ignore him.  This is what pups do when they get bitten too hard, so your puppy will understand what you’re telling him.

Never let him chew on your hands or fingers.  This is what chew toys are for.  Teach your pup to chew on them instead.

Avoid rough play.  Your puppy should see you as his leader, not his equal.

Related articles

• Dog Owners Guide: “No Bite!” (canismajor.com/)

Tagged with: jumping puppy • obedience training for puppies • Puppy • puppy obedience training • puppy training tips • stopping puppy biting • training a new puppy

Filed under: Puppy Training Tips

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