Raising and Training a Puppy Hyattsville MD

Dog training is an art form all in its own. Not every dog is the same, and most dogs have very complex social behaviors that can be hard to correct. So instead of working hard to correct social hiccups, it is important to keep a puppy well trained and behaved from the start. But what's the best form of training to ensure a healthy social behavior for your puppy?

Basics of Puppy Training: The odd thing about dogs in general is that they tend to act much like humans do. This means we can look at how we react to certain situations, and expect dogs to act similarly.

Much like humans idolize certain adults, puppies will tend to follow the ways of other dogs. This means puppies should not be allowed to play or interact with ill-mannered dogs (such as many strays). This idolization can turn a good puppy bad, or a bad puppy worse: both of which may end up causing long-term behavior problems.

Puppies also respond to praise and punishment much like a child would. Most training techniques involve some type of reward- usually an edible treat or words of praise. Punishment may be used for bad behavior, although methods are different for dogs as they are in children. There should be no hitting or physical punishment: rather, a simple no will be sufficient. (Don't overdo it; you don't want to ruin the bond between you and your puppy.)

Teething A Special Interest In Puppy Training: One special behavioral problem most owners see is teething. This is the period where puppies bite and chew anything they can fit their mouth around. This behavior can be tough to cure, but it is far from impossible.

Keep in mind that you should never physically reprimand a puppy. If a puppy does not respect you, it will continue the biting sometimes making it worse. Instead, it is recommended that you socialize the puppy with better-mannered adult dogs. They will essentially see good behavior and mimic it.

If there is no role model to be found- keep in mind that the main reason teething occurs is because of fear or aggression. To remedy these emotions in puppies, try to praise and reward the puppy for good behavior, and firmly say no when biting does occur. Even when the slightest sign of teething returns, be strict: never send mixed signals to a puppy.

House Training a Puppy: To housebreak a puppy, there are a few established rules that can get the job done.

First, feed the puppy on a regular schedule- this will ensure that bathroom breaks are regular. Second, establish a specific bed area and toilet area for the puppy; make the distinction so that the puppy is aware that sleeping and using the bathroom in the same area is generally a bad idea. Lastly, make sure that good toilet behavior is rewarded, while poor toilet behavior is penalized in some shape or form.

Last Thoughts on Puppy Training Tips: Puppies will grow into adults soon enough- never try to rush the process or expect results over night. Keep in mind that puppies can often be just as emotional as humans, so penalties and rewards are very effective.

Lastly, try to remember that puppies thrive under love and trust: so be sure to return the trust and love to ensure a well-behaved puppy grows into a mature adult.