Tips For Effective Puppy Behavior Training

Your little puppy can be the most adorable thing on four legs. He's cute, cuddly, naughty and playful, with boundless energy that can keep you occupied and entertained for many hours each day. But puppies do grow up and to become even more wonderful members of your household, they need to learn how to behave properly and it falls to you to make sure they do. Here are some tips on proper and effective puppy behavior training that will help you and your puppy establish the ground rules that will make communicating that much easier.

Start When the Dog is Ready

Puppy behavior training is best initiated when the dog is at least 8 weeks to 11 weeks old. Although the old adage about old dogs being unable to learn new tricks is a myth, teaching a dog proper behavior when he is still young will make it easier for you to set the boundaries and for your dog to understand what he is allowed and not allowed to do. Do not try to teach a puppy that is too young, or at least younger than 8 weeks, since he will be too distracted by new things to understand what you want him to do.

Accentuate the Positive

Effective puppy behavior training relies on consistency and positive reinforcement. When a puppy learns in a firm yet loving and compassionate environment, he is more likely to perform the steps willingly.

Young dogs like to have fun, so integrate short yet consistent training sessions. Use praise, rewards and encouragement. Use a firm hand when emphasizing a command. Do not yell or snap or hit since these actions will develop fear and resentment on the part of the dog. Your goal is to help your puppy learn discipline and proper behavior so help him succeed with your loving support and respect. The happier your dog is doing what you want him to do, the more confident he will be at performing the commands you teach.

Start Small

Always start puppy behavior training with simple commands. Basic commands such as sit, down and come are easy for a puppy to understand and you will be happy at how quickly he will learn how to do them. Perform consistent repetitions in order to enforce the learning in a positive way. This will help your dog associate a command with a desired action. Once your puppy learns to recognize the basic commands, you can then progress from there. Just make sure to repeat older lessons from time to time.

Be Fair

Keep in mind that dogs process information differently and communicate differently. Be realistic and flexible enough to understand that he will make mistakes. If and when he does, stop him gently and draw his attention to the correct behavior you want him to perform. By being patient, you will be able to observe how your puppy learns and find out more about his temperament and personality.

By: Sandy Rutherforde

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Are you looking for puppy training advice? Be sure to visit my site to find out more about potty training your puppy and how to stop puppy from crying.