When understanding how to train a puppy, it’s best if you start by choosing a training program. Puppies are usually quicker to train than older dogs, since they are already in their “learning” stage. It’s best if you begin training a puppy as soon as they become a member of your household, since this is the best way to ensure that they will able to be trained successfully. Depending on the breed of puppy that you have adopted, you may have to make certain modifications to your training program in order to ensure that it is effective. Here is a general guide on how to train a puppy.
How to Train a Puppy
It’s best to begin training your puppy by teaching them their name. Puppy training is best approached as a fun and rewarding task, not something that you are obligated to accomplish. Begin by repeating your puppy’s name in a non-threatening tone of voice, emphasizing the specific sounds in the name. When your puppy gives you their attention while you speak their name, give them a reward in the form of a treat and a lot of praise. It’s best to repeat this several times, until your puppy begins identifying the sound of their name with the need to give you its full attention. Puppies are much more inclined to learn effectively with a training program that emphasizes positive reinforcement, instead of being motivated by fear of receiving punishment for bad behavior.
Once your puppy is familiar with their name, you can start attaching this name to basic commands. The puppy’s name should be a means by which you can get your puppy’s attention at any time. Since your puppy has already become familiar with the sound of their name, you can start with the “Come” or “Here” command. For example, start by saying “Rover, Come!” in a firm and audible tone of voice. It’s best to give this command while also holding a treat, since this improves the chance that your puppy will give you their full attention.
How to Crate Train a Puppy
Crate training a puppy is the best way to go about the difficult task of potty training. Puppies aren’t in full control of their bowels, being only able to hold their waste for approximately three hours. Crate training gives you a measure of control over your puppy’s potty training routine.
First, choose a crate for your puppy. Effective puppy training means that you need to purchase a crate that is just large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lie down in. If the crate is any larger, your puppy might be inclined to go to the bathroom inside their crate. Puppies have a natural desire to go to the bathroom away from their sleeping area, so you can use this instinct to more effectively crate train your puppy.
Make your puppy’s crate comfortable, with bedding material and a few of their own toys. Leave the door open for a period of time, gently encouraging your puppy to investigate the crate. This can be done by leaving a small treat just inside the crate’s door. Eventually, your puppy will be comfortable with the crate, enough so that they will see it as their own personal “space”.
How to House Train a Puppy
Understanding how to house train a puppy may be slightly dependent on the breed of puppy that you own. Some breeds are quick learners, and can be effectively house trained in only a few days. Other breeds may require you to be extremely patient while they become familiar with a house training program.
It’s best to use your puppy’s crate in order to facilitate effective house training. Lead your puppy to their crate right after mealtimes, and at set intervals during the day. After about an hour, take your puppy out from the crate, and immediately lead them outside. If they go to the bathroom at this time, you can reward them with treats as well as a lot of praise. If they don’t go to the bathroom, repeat this process until you are successful. Eventually, your puppy will associate going to the bathroom outdoors with receiving rewards.
Puppy Training Tips
Training a puppy requires that you have a general understanding of your puppy’s learning process. You have a role as your puppy’s teacher, which gives you a lot of responsibility over your puppy’s development. Most puppies will respond very well to any sort of training program that only uses positive reinforcement. Never spank, hit or yell at your puppy. This can actually impede the training process, and may even lead to destructive behavior. Be patient with your puppy, adapting your training tactics with how well your puppy is responding to the training. If you wish, you can also ask an expert about how to train a puppy, since they may be able to guide you to effective obedience classes.
