Basic Puppy Training

Basic puppy training and socialization can began at roughly 4-6 weeks of age. Before this age, puppies are simply not able to focus at all. It's eat, sleep and poop in that order.

Basic puppy training in an important part of socialization and integration of the puppy into the human society. From 8 - 24 weeks its very important that a puppy get a great deal of human interaction and attention. It's also important not to limit this contact to the immediate family members. By socializing the animal around a variety of different types people, your dog will not be afraid of people in hats or with sunglasses (two common fears in dogs.) By 24 weeks your dog should know "Sit," "Stay," "Down" and "Relax."

The first step in training is to get your dog to know their name. This is the first step and its important as we don't want your dog going through life thinking it's name is "No" or "Stop That" or "Hey You." These are actually the three most common dog names instead of "Spot" or "Rover".

The important thing to remember is always associate a dog's name with a positive association. Start your first session when you have your dog's attention. With some healthy dog treats on hand, say your dog's name and then using an indicator (a word like "yes"), immediately give her a treat. Wait a few seconds and then repeat. Do this for five minutes several times a day.

After a few sessions your pup will probably begin to associate the sound of her name with a tasty treat. Now you should begin the exercise when your dog's attention is not focused on you. It's a good idea to have your pet on a dog leash for your training sessions so that you can prevent her from leaving, jumping, or other undesirable behaviors. When your dog is distracted call her name. As soon as she turns and orients toward you, say "yes!" and immediately give her a treat. If she doesn't turn to look at you, gently pull her toward you with the leash. When she does finally orient toward you, say "yes!" and give her a treat. Repeat this exercise as many times a day as you can and in as many different environments as possible.

Eventually you should begin having the dog "Come" to you by name only. If you work on this behavior from puppyhood on, it's much easier than attempting to teach this later on in life. Puppies are like children, their minds are quite plastic and malleable.

Keep training sessions short, no more than 10 minutes. Puppies have a short attention span. Also keep in mind puppy minds get rather full rather quickly so try not to teach them too much too quickly. You can do several short sessions simply by carrying around treats with you when you have the puppy.

Also, never use your dog's name to correct or punish her in any way. The dog should only have a positive association with it's name. Next post, the rest of the commands such "Sit," "Stay,""Come," "Down" and "Relax."