Bringing a new puppy home can be both exciting and overwhelming. As a professional breeder for pomsky, I know how important it is to start training your puppy right away. In this article, I will discuss three easy things that you can teach your new puppy to set them up for success.
1. Potty Training
One of the first things that you should teach your new puppy is potty training. This is an essential skill that will make both yours and your puppy’s life much easier. Here are some tips on how to potty train your new puppy:
Create a Schedule
Creating a schedule for your puppy will help them learn when it’s time to go outside. Take your puppy outside at regular intervals throughout the day, such as after they wake up from a nap, after meals, and before bedtime. It’s important to be consistent with your schedule so that your puppy knows what to expect.
Crate Training
Crate training is an effective way to potty train your new puppy. Dogs naturally avoid going potty in their sleeping area, so using a crate can help teach them to hold their bladder until they’re outside. Make sure the crate is big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Positive Reinforcement
When your puppy goes potty outside, be sure to praise them and give them a treat. Positive reinforcement will help reinforce good behavior and encourage your puppy to continue going potty outside.
- Be patient as it may take several weeks or even months for your puppy to fully understand where they should go potty.
- If you catch your puppy in the act of going potty inside, say “no” firmly and immediately take them outside to finish. Do not punish your puppy for accidents.
- If you’re having trouble potty training your puppy, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer for additional help.
2. Basic Commands
Teaching your new puppy basic commands is another essential skill that will set them up for success. Here are three basic commands that you can teach your new puppy:
Sit
The “sit” command is one of the easiest commands to teach your new puppy. Start by holding a treat above their head and say “sit.” Your puppy should naturally lower their bottom to the ground in order to reach the treat. As soon as they sit, give them the treat and praise them.
Come
The “come” command is important for keeping your puppy safe and under control. Start by calling your puppy’s name followed by “come.” When they come to you, reward them with a treat and praise.
Stay
The “stay” command can be challenging for some puppies, but it’s an important command for teaching impulse control. Start by giving your puppy the “sit” command, then hold your hand out in front of you and say “stay.” Gradually increase the amount of time that you ask your puppy to stay before rewarding them.
- Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent (2-3 times per day).
- Always use positive reinforcement when training your puppy.
- Avoid using punishment or physical force when training your puppy as this can damage the bond between you and your dog.
3. Leash Training
Leash training is an important skill for both you and your puppy. Here are some tips on how to leash train your new puppy:
Start Indoors
Start by putting a collar and leash on your puppy indoors. Let them get used to the feeling of having something around their neck and dragging behind them.
Practice Walking
After your puppy is comfortable wearing a collar and leash, start practicing walking with them indoors. Use treats to encourage your puppy to walk beside you.
Move Outdoors
Once your puppy is comfortable walking indoors, move your training sessions outside where there are more distractions. Start in a quiet area and gradually work up to busier areas.
- Be patient when leash training as it can take time for some puppies to get used to the feeling of wearing a collar and leash.
- Avoid using a retractable leash when training your puppy as they can be difficult to control.
- Always use positive reinforcement when training your puppy.
Conclusion
Teaching your new puppy essential skills like potty training, basic commands, and leash training is crucial for setting them up for success. Remember to always use positive reinforcement and be patient with your puppy during the training process. With consistent training and patience, you’ll have a well-behaved and happy companion for years to come!
