Crate Training: A Foundation for Comfort and Safety
- Start early: Begin crate training the day your puppy arrives home.
- Size matters: Ensure the crate is large enough for your puppy to lie down and turn around comfortably but small enough to prevent them from using it as a bathroom.
- Make it cozy: Add a soft blanket or towel and a favorite toy to make the crate a welcoming space.
- Positive reinforcement: Introduce your puppy to the crate gradually, offering treats and praise for calm behavior.
- Practice makes perfect: Gradually increase your puppy’s time in the crate and use it for short car rides to help them get accustomed to traveling.
Reward Desirable Behaviors: A Positive Approach to Training
- Focus on the positive: Reward your puppy’s good behavior with treats, praise, or playtime.
- Be consistent: Reinforce desired behaviors to help your puppy understand what is expected.
Avoid the Food Bowl: Make Mealtimes a Learning Opportunity
- Food-based training: Use food as a reward to motivate your puppy and teach them new commands.
- Food toys and puzzles: Keep your puppy engaged and mentally stimulated with food-dispensing toys and puzzles.
- Controlled feeding: Avoid free feeding and instead provide meals at scheduled times or throughout the day to reinforce your role as the provider and to bolster positive interactions.
Control Their Environment: A Safe Space for Your Puppy
- Puppy-proof your home: Remove hazards like shoes, cords, and small objects.
- Use a playpen or crate: Confine your puppy to a safe space when you can’t supervise them.
- Hands-free leash: Use a hands-free leash (wrapped around your waist) to keep your puppy close and prevent unwanted behaviors.
- Provide appropriate toys: Offer chew toys and other safe play items to keep your puppy entertained.
Potty Training: Consistency is Key
- Establish a routine: Take your puppy outside regularly (set at a timer every two hours), especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
- Positive reinforcement: Reward your puppy for going potty outside with praise and treats.
- Be patient: Potty training takes time, so be consistent and patient.
Remember: Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are essential to raising a happy and well-behaved puppy. Every dog is unique, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice by booking a free in-home consultation today here: https://offleashdogtraining.com/book-now/
