 Puppy Training: Training your new puppy is the best way to get off to the right start. Having a well trained and socialized dog will be an investment that will pay for itself ten times over. Basic obedience classes using clicker training is the most effective way to train and socialize your puppy. Puppies can start their training as soon as they can hear (8-10 weeks old). Many clicker puppies are fully trained by six months old, if you follow the program at home. Clicker classes provide a controlled, safe and clean environment to minimize the risk of your puppy being overwhelmed by being exposed to other dogs that may be aggressive or not have their shots. This is much safer than taking your puppy to a dog park at this stage of life. Look for a certified clicker trainer that has puppy classes. This will be an invaluable tool for you to enjoy life with your new puppy as you introduce him to new people, sights, sounds and places.Confinement: Dogs enjoy having their own space. A crate or exercise pen (x-pen) is a great way to provide this as well as keep your puppy and household items safe. When crate training, offer treats and entertainment so your puppy will love his space. This will be useful for when you have to confine your dog for travel, medical situations or other reasons. Entertainment:Dogs are no different than people when it comes to getting bored and the need for entertainment. People are able to seek out entertainment by going out with friends to the movies, dinner or other events. People go to work which helps occupy time. Children get bored more easily than adults asking for you to play with them, for new toys or to go play with their friends. Much like a child your puppy needs some help. Your new puppy cannot seek out his own constructive entertainment. When he tries annoying habits start like destructive chewing, messing in the house, digging in the yard and barking to name a few. Nutrition: A good nutritious diet can keep your dog healthy and save you money in the future. Educate yourself on the nutritional needs of your dog through each stage of his life. There are several specialty pet stores in town that have high quality dog foods to choose from and are happy to help answer nutritional questions about your puppy.Veterinarian Care: Veterinarians are an important part of your new puppy’s wellbeing. They can help keep your puppy in good health providing guidance in the appropriate age for shots and spaying or neutering. This will save you from problems in the future. They are a good resource for questions about your puppy and can direct you to where you need to go if they don’t have the answer. Find a good local Veterinarian they can be your best friend.
So how do you provide entertainment for your puppy? Most entertainment falls into two categories; items you buy for them to play with and activities you provide for them to do. Buy plenty of dog toys whether soft, rubber or plastic and rotate them so they seem new and exciting. Also dogs love different types of chew bones like nylon, real or rawhide. Provide activities that will mentally and physically stimulate your puppy. Going for a walk, run, playing together, practicing training exercises or playing with doggy friends are great activities that also help your dog get plenty of exercise. Other fun activities for dogs are emptying a stuffed Kong, hunting for hidden treats or playing with a puzzle toy will help keep your puppy occupied and out of trouble.With these tips we hope you and your new puppy will have less frustrations and more enjoyment as you go through puppyhood together. |