Looking for Dayton puppy training? Starting off with good puppy training is such an important part of preparing your pup for a lifetime of happiness and adventure. This guide offers expert tips and advice on training your pup in Dayton, OH, so you can set them up for success from the start.
Establish Boundaries and Structure.
Establishing boundaries and setting structure is an important part of puppy training. Consistency and repetition are key to teaching your pup the boundaries and what is acceptable behavior. We always start puppies off with engagement (focus and attention on the handler), name recognition which will help with coming when called later, wait at the door, and leave it, all of which will help you maintain control of your pup in different situations as they advance in their training. Additionally, establishing rules such as ‘no jumping,’ ‘no barking indoors’ or ‘no chewing on furniture’ will help your pup learn what behaviors are acceptable or unacceptable in the home.
Establish a Consistent Routine.
Having a consistent routine when you are training your puppy is key – it helps create clarity for both of you! Once you have designed your puppy’s schedule, stick to it and be as consistent as possible. This will also help you and your pup get into the habit of performing certain commands or behaviors with ease. Consistency helps your pup grow in confidence and makes the training process much easier. The world is not a scary place if it is black and white! Finding a professional dog trainer to help guide you through this process can make a huge difference, as puppies can go through various fear periods throughout their growth.
Begin Socialization and Manners Training.
Socialization and manners training are important aspects of puppy training in Dayton. From an early age, it is important to start teaching your pup how to interact with other people, animals and its environment in a friendly and safe way. This is done by gradually introducing your pup to new sights, sounds, smells, objects and animals. Staying patient as you introduce your pup to new experiences and rewarding good behaviors with treats or verbal praise will help form positive associations for your pup. Taking regular trips to the local park or introducing your pup to pet-friendly businesses are great ways to socialize and teach them good manners, but remember that it is most important that your puppy learn to ignore other dogs and people! Any physical interactions they have with people or other dogs should be well-controlled with those you know and trust.
Potty Training with Positive Reinforcement.
Potty training your puppy is often the most challenging part of the process. However, reinforcing positive behaviors and providing consistent house rules is the key to success in potty training… meaning supervision, supervision, supervision is key here. Practicing a schedule with meal times, play times and bathroom breaks is important for establishing routines. Rewarding your pup when they do their job in the right area with treats or verbal praise will also help them form positive associations and learn good habits. Be patient as you go through this process, as different puppies move at different speeds when it comes to learning! Do not allow your puppy to sneak off and have accident in the house. Make sure you are crate training, using a leash in the house, and not giving your puppy too much freedom too quickly. It will take up to a few months of consistent work, but if you do not allow mistakes inside your puppy WILL potty train!
Introduce New Tasks Gradually and Be Consistent With Commands.
As your puppy gets more and more comfortable with the basics like potty training and house rules, you can start introducing the more complex commands like stay, come, sit and how to walk on a loose leash. Start off by teaching one command at a time in a low distraction environment (like the house or backyard) and keep the overall routine consistent. Don’t push your puppy too quickly by expecting them to perform under higher level distractions or in new, novel places. Use lots of positive reinforcement – in the form of verbal praise or treats – when your pup does a good job, as it will help solidify their understanding of that particular command. Remember to go slow – Rome wasn’t built in a day – and have patience as you introduce new tasks to your pup!
If you are located in Ohio and need help with Dayton puppy training or Columbus puppy training, please reach out. We have puppy programs designed to help you navigate this critical period in your life; we are experts in puppy obedience training, on and off leash training, socialization, focus and attention, potty training, crate training, house manners, and more.
