Puppy adoption is a lot of fun, but training is also a big responsibility that comes with it, alongside cuteness and fun play. In general, the main concern of new dog owners was how to get rid of the puppy’s bad behavior in the shortest possible time. Puppy training is not a truly instant process and cannot be done overnight. However, there are ways to use the right techniques that can hasten the whole process.. Therefore, do not think twice about accompanying your pet through the dog training trip of a puppy’s stages!
Why Obedience Training Is Important for Puppies
Obedience training is a long-term approach that involves not only teaching commands but also behavior shaping and trust building.
Obedience training offers several benefits, such as:
Prevention of behavior issues, such as barking or chewing, that are excessive
Establishment of better communication between you and your puppy
Protection of your puppy in real-life situations
Confidence-building and anxiety reduction
Formation of a powerful bond that lasts for a lifetime
An early start means your puppy will have the greatest opportunity to mature into a dog with good manners.
The Most Effective Ways to Obedience Train a Puppy
1. Start Training Early
No doubt, puppies turn out to be the best learners in the age bracket of 8-16 weeks. People in the immediate environment and the mentors, by their mannerisms, inevitably influence the surrounding dogs.
The primary instructions such as sit, stay, come, and down, should first be introduced.
The duration of the training sessions should not be more than 5 to 10 minutes.
Daily training is the way to go for making the learning strong.
Training at an early age helps to avoid the formation of bad habits.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method in dog training, as everybody accepts it.
The following are examples:
– Treats
– verbal and physical praise
– Play or a toy
The puppy should be rewarded instantly after performing the command correctly. This process will help him/her to link good actions to pleasant consequences.
Punishing can be avoided since it may result in fear, bewilderment, and distrust.
3. Make Commands Follow a Uniform Pattern
In dog training, inconsistency is the worst enemy.
Use the identical words for orders each time
Require each family member to follow the rules, and…
Payout closely every time…
Suppose one person permits jumping and the other one does not, your pup will get mixed up.
4. Maintain the Fun and Engagement in Training Sessions
Dogs’ attention span is very short; thus, the entire training process should be like a game.
Be very expressive and use a loud voice
Try to finish each session in a good mood
Incorporate fun into training
A puppy who is happy will learn a lot faster than one not quite satisfied or relaxed.
5. Focus on Basic Commands First
Get very good at the basics before going advanced.
Commands like these are considered basic obedience skills:
Sit
Stay
Come
Down
Leave it
Heel
These commands form the foundation of good behavior and safety.
6. Socialize Your Puppy
Regular socialization is an important element of disciplined training in following.
Acquaint your puppy with various individuals
Allow it to interact with kind dogs
Make it hear different sounds and feel various places
Puppy socialization promotes energy level control, calmness, response time, and following commands more times than not.
7. Practice Backing Up Your First Step in Different Locations
When your puppy learns commands at home, practice them in varying places.
Try training in the park
Practice during walks
Introduce mild distractions gradually
This helps your puppy understand that commands apply everywhere—not just at home.