Puppy Obedience Training
Monday, January 26th, 2009Puppy obedience is probably one of the major goals of all new dog owners. Most dogs today spend a lot of time with us in our homes, so here’s some tips for working on puppy behaviors, including some basic puppy obedience training, that will help keep your indoor time together pleasant and manageable.
Picture two dogs. One is tearing around the house, barking like mad, and jumping up on people and furniture. The other dog is sitting quietly and looking at you. Which is the "good dog"?
Most of us would choose dog #2. Does that mean we don’t want our dogs to be spirited and excited some of the time? No, of course not. But for most of us, most of the time, a calm dog is a better companion – and this level of puppy obedience is very much appreciated by you as the owner and any guests you have too.
So in addition to all the other puppy training you do, make sure you reinforce calm behavior. This can be tricky, because we tend to notice our dogs when they are calling attention to themselves. But you know what? If you ignore your dog when he’s doing nothing – but then get all excited and chase him around the house when he walks up to you with your shoe in his mouth – you may be training him to be a troublemaker!
So be sure to praise and pet your dog when he’s quiet and calm. Give him a treat, now and then, when he’s lying quietly or snoozing.
Use basic puppy obedience as a behavior foundation
People have all different goals for their dogs. Some of us are looking for companion animals while others will involve their dogs in competitions, such as agility or obedience.
Regardless of your goals, it’s a good idea to do some basic obedience with your puppy. When you have some foundation behaviors on cue – commands like sit and down – you’ll be able to manage your puppy a little better. Basic obedience also builds a connection between you and your dog.
So even if all you want is a buddy to join you for walks and curl up with you on the couch when you relax, plan to do a little basic puppy obedience training.
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