Nothing But The Basics
Training your puppy involves understanding what motivates him or her. Usually, the answer is food. A treat of some sort or other is sure to elicit a positive response from your puppy. You can use this to help train him or her in the basic commands.
Patience is also required. You will need it in ample amounts. While some dogs learn more quickly than others, there are always the few canines who require more time and attention to learn even the bare basics. Do not give up. Take your time and do it right.
Training also demands both your time and attention. Pay attention to your puppy and his or her needs. Know they are still puppies with limited attention spans. They need reinforcement and breaks. They also need your love.
If training is tough, call in an expert. Take your command challenged puppy to puppy classes. This will help both you and your pet in socialization and learning skills. Even if you do attend a class, you will have to practice at home. This brings us back to having time and patience to help your puppy prepare for a safe and mannered life.
Basic Commands
There are several commands that your puppy needs to know. These will ensure he or she is kept safe in a sometimes revolting world. Knowing these words will also make you feel more secure about your puppy’s safety as he or she matures. In addition, being adept at these commands will also cut down on inappropriate social behavior. You, your family, friends and neighbors will appreciate the time, effort and, yes patience that has produced these results.
Know the trigger words. These are words that your canine companion will act upon. Keep them consistent. Do not change the trigger word mid-training. One word is often the most effective. Select a simple one.
• Sit. This is a very basic command. It is one most puppies can learn quickly. To accomplish this, take the treat or motivational tool in your hand. Hold it palm up close to your puppy’s nose. Next, move it along toward the tail. Your dog’s natural reaction is to sit.
Reward your puppy for doing so and reinforce the behavior with the word SIT. Remember, this is a lesson in language as well as learning how to sit. Your puppy must grasp both concepts.
Reward your puppy with treats. Praise him lavishly, but make sure he or she remains sitting. Do not, however, force him or her to stay in this position for long. After an appropriate amount of time, say the “release word.” Wait a few minutes then repeat the process all over again.
• Release. This is the command that tells your puppy it is okay to stop sitting, staying, etc. It gives him or her permission to resume life as usual. It should be a simple word.
If “release” sounds too stiff, try “Free,” or “Go” or “Okay.”
• Stay. Stand directly in front of your puppy. Use your right or left hand. Place it palm up, directly in front of the puppy. The position is a typical “Stop” or “Back Off” motion for humans. Say “Stay.” Remain still. If your puppy stays in place, treat and reward with praise. Say “Good Dog” and “Good Stay.”
Release your dog using the release word then proceed to the next phase. You will ask your dog to sit, but increase the distance away from him or her. Over time, you will increase both the distance and time. Add distractions when possible. Always reinforce positively his or her ability to remain in one spot.
• Leave It. This is to help your puppy learn to give you or drop anything he or she is chewing on. It discourages possessiveness, aggressiveness and dominance. If your puppy is chewing on a toy, stop directly in front and say “Leave it.” Another choice is “Drop it.”
Show the puppy the treat. It is time to play “let’s make a deal.” The puppy will usually drop the toy in favor of the new treat or toy. Give the puppy the treat. After he or she eats the treat, return the toy or chew. This will encourage the puppy to give you their toys or chews in the future. It also tells the puppy he or she is not being punished.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the commands you will teach your puppy. They are basic. You can do them on your own. You can also take puppy classes. It is often best to combine the 2 methods. Whatever your choice, try to make the time you spend together fun. Learning is serious business, but it works best when both the teacher and the student are enjoying themselves.