Discover the essential priorities for training your puppy, from establishing a routine to effective potty training techniques. The hosts share personal experiences and practical tips for new dog owners navigating the challenges of puppy care. Learn about the critical role of eye contact in training and how feeding times influence toilet habits. Plus, explore training strategies for recall commands that enhance obedience. It's all about creating a happy, well-trained pup!
Establishing a consistent routine with scheduled activities helps puppies adjust and fosters a secure environment for training.
Utilizing positive reinforcement and clear communication enhances a puppy's responsiveness to commands and strengthens the owner-pet bond.
Deep dives
Establishing a Puppy Schedule
Creating a consistent routine for a new puppy is crucial for successful training and bonding. Key aspects of this routine include scheduling toilet breaks, feeding times, and walks to help the puppy adjust and feel secure. Keeping a diary of the puppy's bathroom habits can aid in determining optimal potty breaks, which typically coincide with feeding times. Additionally, setting fixed periods for outings and ensuring structured downtime at home helps promote a calm environment for both the puppy and the owner.
Essential Training Focus
Focusing on specific training exercises can significantly ease the overall training process. Teaching eye contact is essential, as it fosters attentiveness and is foundational for commands like loose lead walking and recall. Simple techniques, such as dropping treats to encourage the puppy to look up, can help reinforce this behavior. Other basic commands, like sit, create mutually exclusive behaviors that prevent unwanted actions, such as jumping up on people, enhancing the overall obedience of the puppy.
Motivating Your Dog to Listen
Understanding why a dog may not respond to commands revolves largely around motivation and clarity in communication. If a dog isn't interested in following instruction, it may be due to a lack of motivating rewards or unclear cues from the owner. Encouraging positive reinforcements, such as treats or play, reinforces desired behaviors and builds a stronger bond. Owners should remember that dogs are not being stubborn; they simply need a clear understanding of what is expected and motivation to comply.