Monday, January 19, 2009

Puppy Update--Training 101

An Ongoing Discussion of Puppy Training Techniques

It got mighty quiet around our house yesterday. It was the day after all our puppies went to their new homes. Shea (now Baron) was the last to leave and I have to admit I got a bit teary eyed. He is in a wonderful home and I know he will be very happy.

So, now that I have this wonderful blog space to explore the canine world, I will turn my conversations over to discussions of Puppy Training Techniques that have worked for me.

And, if anyone has tips to add, please do so in my 'comments' section.

Warm Welcome ABC's

Attention in the form of love, sweet nothings in their ears and lavish praise is very important to make your new family member feel welcome. Excess in this category is almost impossible. This is the most productive bonding period in a dog's life. His love for you will reap huge rewards in how well he learns later lessons. The importance of a dog's desire to please its owner can not be overstated.

Blankets that the breeder provides which have been slept on by the mother and siblings are also helpful. Scent is the strongest attribute dogs have. Dogs relate to their world more with their noses than their eyes, ears or tongues. Having the mother's scent nearby is a wonderful comfort.

Consistency, ideally duplicating the breeder's routine, is also significant in raising a confident and well balanced dog. Begin with the breeder's routine for feeding, pottying, playtime and naptime and gradually adjust it to a schedule that works for you. Dogs LOVE routine...love knowing when to expect important events in their day. Not too different from children in this respect.

Again, please offer any tips that have worked for you in raising a happy, healthy puppy.

No comments: