It is never too soon to start training a puppy. Other than teaching her about paper, piddle pad or outdoor bathroom behavior, you may want to give your puppy as much freedom as possible until she is about four to six months of age. That does not include letting her run amok in public places. Always keep a lead and collar on your puppy in public places where there is danger from road traffic, children or other dogs. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies in your country.
Also be careful in off leash parks if there are older dogs loose as they may attack a rambunctious pup they think is infringing on their territory. A boisterous young pup of a larger breed can also harm young children or frail elderly people by jumping on them excitedly. Always keep your pup in sight when she's off her leash.
Plenty of exercise and fresh air are essential for a fast growing young puppy. She needs the exercise to strengthen her bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs. Being in public places also allows her to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general. She should be exercised daily if possible. A side benefit of this is that she will sleep well and not get bored, which is the main cause of bad habits and destructive behavior seen in so many young dogs today. Another thing it prevents is shyness, which is primarily caused by isolation as a pup, although shyness is also a trait that can be inherited.
Starting Basic Puppy Training
You can start training a puppy from about four to six months of age. It is possible to train older dogs, but it's a lot harder. Don’t overdo these exercises. Twenty to 30 minutes a day is adequate. You'll find that your puppy tires fairly quickly and a tired pup won't learn anything. Be regular in your training sessions, taking her out about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session and the pup will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.
Teaching a Puppy to Heel
Walk at a steady pace with your puppy on a lead attached to a firm fitting collar. Have her on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL. Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your pup pulls away or gets distracted, just keep walking, she'll soon get the message and follow along. If you don't stop, she'll have to follow. As she follows you after a distraction, pat her saying GOOD DOG or GOOD GIRL. If she tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When she obeys, give her a pat and praise her and she'll soon get the message. In place of a pat you may want to try a small treat. Take it from me, the way to a dog’s heart is through its stomach. Praise and a small treat work wonders when training your puppy.
Teaching a Puppy to Sit
Once your puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach her to sit. With her walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on her back end with your left hand. She will have no choice but to sit. While lifting with the collar takes weight off her front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing her down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising her each time she sits. Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times during your walk.
Once puppy has learned these basic commands, register her for an obedience class. Check with your veterinarian to find out where they are held in your area. If the veterinarian does not know, check the yellow pages in your phone book or the pet section of the classified advertisements in your local paper.
Until next time,
Teia
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