7 Essential Tips for Training Your New Puppy
7 Essential Tips for Training Your New Puppy
Bringing home a new puppy from The Family Puppy is an exciting experience, marking the start of a lifelong friendship between you and your new pup. As a new puppy parent, you may be wondering how to train your furry friend. We're here to help!
Getting started on proper training when you bring your new pup home is a paw-step in the right direction.
In addition to helping your puppy learn wanted behaviors, training helps build the bond between you and your pup while increasing their confidence and providing mental stimulation. Here are seven basic puppy training tips from the knowledgeable team at The Family Puppy to help you get started.
Start with the Basics
Your puppy needs to learn basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” These commands are the foundation of all other training. Start by teaching your puppy “sit” by holding a treat above their head and saying “sit” as you gently guide their bottom down. When they sit, give them the treat and lots of praise. Repeat this several times a day until they have mastered the command.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Puppies respond much better to positive reinforcement than to punishment. When your puppy does something good, reward them with a treat or praise. This will encourage them to continue the behavior. If your puppy does something wrong, redirect their attention to something positive rather than punishing them.
Be Consistent
Consistency is key when training your puppy. Use the same commands and rewards every time. Avoid confusing your puppy by changing things up. If you want your puppy to learn to go potty outside, take them outside at the same times every day and praise them when they go. This will help them learn the routine and what is expected of them.
Keep Training Sessions Short
Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions short and sweet. Five to ten minutes is a good amount of time for a training session. If you try to train for too long, your puppy will lose interest and become distracted.
Socialize Your Puppy
Proper socialization is crucial for your puppy’s development. When it's safe to do so, introduce them to new people, animals, and environments. This will help them feel comfortable and confident in different situations, benefiting them for a lifetime. Properly socializing your puppy can also prevent behavioral problems down the road.
Be Patient
Training a puppy takes time and patience! Don’t expect your puppy to learn everything overnight. Be patient and consistent, and your puppy will learn what you are trying to teach them.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you are struggling with training your puppy, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A trainer can assess your puppy’s behavior and provide you with the tools you need to train them effectively.
Training your puppy is a rewarding experience that will strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend while setting them up for a lifetime of success. With these basic puppy training tips from The Family Puppy, you can start your puppy off on the right paw and raise a happy, well-behaved pup.