Training Your New Puppy Getting started on the right paw with your new puppy is important to your long-term happiness together. Begin by realizing that canines instinctively seek sanctuary in the safety of their "den". So, provide him his own secure den or home -- a specially designed wire cage or crate.
You will have ideally purchased the cage before you bring the newcomer home with you. Make sure to get one that will eventually accommodate your full-grown pet. Place it in a restricted area and line the area outside the cage with newspaper. Your puppy will be happier in a crate with a toy or chew. Purchase several and rotate them so he always thinks he has a new toy.
Allow your puppy to become accustomed to his new den gradually. Leave the door open and let him explore it on his own terms. His experiences should be positive. Connect the cage with a treat or his favorite chew toy. Always praise him for going into the cage and never praise him for leaving it. Observe and interact with him while he's checking things out. This will build your bond with him and establish you as the pack leader.
If you want your dog to be comfortable in his crate for long periods, start positive training while he's young. When he is quietly settled, leave the cage door closed for a short period. Then release him, but do not offer praise right away. This praise may accidentally reinforce the desirability of leaving the cage. Repeat this activity several times a day.
Gradually extend the den time and your time out of his sight. This repetition builds your pet's ability to remain in the crate without becoming upset or anxious. You may want to use a command, such as "kennel", while enticing him into the crate. Eventually, he will associate the command with the action and know that "kennel" means it's time to get into his den.
As soon as your new puppy arrives home, you can begin housebreaking. Begin with a trip to the yard as soon as he arrives. Then, always walk your dog to this spot when he's on his leash. Remember, a six to eight-week old puppy needs to be taken outdoors every one to three hours. Give him lots of praise when he relieves himself outside. And, stick to your bathroom break schedule. Consistency will accelerate the program.
Accidents, of course, will happen. When you catch your puppy in the act of relieving himself inside, give a firm "No" and take him outside to his designated area to finish. When he's done, offer praise to reinforce his outdoor behavior.
In the beginning, you'll want to confine your puppy to the room with the crate and the newspaper. As his housebreaking training begins to work, you'll be able to allow him more access to the rest of the house. Before you know it, you and your pal will be on the road to a long and successful relationship! |