Training your puppy from an early age
Puppies are adorable, with their appealing ways and high energy levels. As an owner it is hard to stop them from forming bad habits when they are so incorrigible.
Some of the bad habits that you will find easier to stop include barking, biting, chewing furniture (which can be a big issue if you happen to have some expensive items, such as an old antique bookcase) and, when they are allowed out of the house, lead pulling.
At an early stage in their life a puppy will want to build up a rapport with their new owner. Vocal commands are essential and warm praise and commands in a deeper tone will be recognised by your new pal. Smacking a puppy or shouting at him is not good as it can cause him to become upset, and your dog will lose his confidence.
Bringing home a puppy is an exciting time for you but you have to remember that your new pal has just been taken away from the warmth of his mother and the companionship of his brothers and sisters. He will want to please you, however he will not realise at first what is expected of him.
A couple of tips to help you with puppy training are:
- A dog crate is a useful tool for training your puppy to recognise his own private den, where he can rest. They are also handy for safe travelling in a car.
- Chewy dog toys help a puppy to recognise what is acceptable to chew and what is not, when his teeth are coming through. Do not give pigs ears or rawhide chews to a young puppy.
