Training Your Puppy
Article by Todd Allen
I hope you’re ready to enjoy a fun experience. You and your puppy are about to become a team by learning just a few of the basics. For the puppy to turn into the dog you want him to become, he will have to be molded. A well trained puppy is a joy to be around.
The Reward System
The reward system is the most positive method of training. You will need to find a treat that your puppy will go crazy over. Many of the top trainers use little cut up pieces of hotdog as the treat. The other reward is an awful lot pf praise and love. In order for it to stay fun for you and your puppy, stay upbeat and positive.
The Training
The basic heel, sit and down commands will be taught to your puppy. You will have more control over your puppy once they learn these basic commands. When you have a well trained puppy, socializing him to different situations will become much easier. The attention span of a puppy is not very long so keep the training sessions to around 10 to 15 minutes. You will gradually extend the training sessions as your puppy continues to improve.
Using The Leash
With the leash in one hand and a treat in the other, you are ready to begin with the leash training. In an upbeat voice, say the puppies name and give the heel command. Become a human pez-dispencer, dishing out the treats and encouragement to keep the puppy walking beside you. If the puppy should stop, just continue to hold the treat in front of him and gently tug the leash. Eventually the leash and collar will not bother the puppy.
Teaching The Sit
The best way to get a puppy to sit is to hold the treat in front of his nose and then gently lift it over his head. Every time you practice this, use the word sit. Every once in a while, if you’re watching TV or reading a book, go ahead and take one or two minutes to practice the sit.
The Down
While the pup is in the sit position, slowly lower the treat and then bring it forward. Always use the command down when you begin in the downward motion with the food.
If you stay consistent and patient, training your puppy should move along rather smoothly. Don’t worry if it seems like it is taking a little longer for your pup to get the hang of it, he will. Putting the treats away and using verbal commands is the ultimate goal. Results will show up and it won’t seem like it took that long. A happy puppy is a well trained puppy.
About the Author
Have been working with dogs for 30 years. For more dog and puppy training advice go to http://mydogtrainingadvice.com