Puppy etiquette 101: Tips and tricks for a well-behaved fur baby

How to train a puppy.

Easy tips for a well-behaved pooch.

Set your new fur baby up for success.

Congratulations on your new puppy! As adorable as your little furball is, it’s crucial to remember that training starts day one.

Proper training not only makes your life easier but it also helps build a strong bond between you and your pup.

Effective puppy training involves teaching basic commands, socialization, leash training and house training.

Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple and easy to follow. After all, training should be a fun and enriching experience for both you and your new furry friend.

Puppy training: Basic commands

Training your puppy to understand basic commands is vital for good behavior and your pup’s safety.

Use treats or toys as positive reinforcement. When it comes to training a puppy, the key is consistency and patience.

Use the same words and tone every time you issue the command. Keep training sessions short to hold your puppy’s attention.

Start with simple commands like «Sit,» «Stay» and «Come». Aim for 5-10 minutes, multiple times a day.

Over time, your puppy will associate the command with the action and the reward, making it a learned behavior.

Remember to be patient; training your dog is a gradual process that takes time and repetition.

Socialization is an important aspect of training

Socializing your puppy is as important as teaching basic commands. It helps your dog become accustomed to different environments, people and other animals.

The earlier you start puppy training, the better, as puppies are most receptive to new experiences between 3 and 14 weeks old.

Gradually expose your pup to various sights, sounds, and smells, using treats and praise to reward your dog for calm behavior.

It’s also beneficial to introduce your puppy to other vaccinated dogs to help develop good social skills.

Leash training your new pup

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Walking nicely on a leash makes daily life much easier and more enjoyable. Start by letting your puppy get used to wearing a collar and leash indoors.

Use high value treats to encourage your pup to follow you while holding the leash.

Make sure to keep the leash loose; pulling it can create tension and make the puppy pull back.

If your puppy starts pulling in the opposite direction, stop and call them back to you, rewarding them when they come.

Gradually progress to short walks outside, making sure to reward good behavior. Consistency is key, as in all aspects of training.

How to train a puppy: Housebreaking

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One of the first challenges you’ll face is housebreaking your pup. Praise them enthusiastically when they do it right.

Establish a routine by taking your puppy outside first thing in the morning, last thing at night and after meals.

Always take them to the same spot; the scent will prompt them to go. Use a command like «Go potty» to help them associate the action with the location.

Accidents will happen, but it’s crucial not to scold your puppy; this will make them afraid and less likely to learn.

How to train a puppy

Photo: Mundo Archive

Training a new puppy can be a daunting task, but remember that patience and consistency are your best friends in this journey.

These four essential aspects — basic commands, socialization, leash training and house training — lay the foundation for a well-behaved dog.

Stick to a regular training schedule and always use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

Your hard work will pay off, resulting in a loving and obedient companion. So grab some treats, your leash, and your pup, and start training today!