Puppy Training Tips & Tricks

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyous experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of training them to become well-behaved and obedient companions. Puppy training is a crucial step in their development, and setting the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior.

In this blog post, I'm sharing essential tips & tricks I have learned over the years of training my goldendoodle Sully, and new goldendoodle puppy, Shem! I want to note that I am not an expert dog trainer by any means, but because I am currently in the process of training our 9 week old puppy, I thought it would be fun to share the tips  & tricks I was given on instagram as well as the knowledge I have!

• Start Early: The earlier you begin training your puppy, the better. Puppies are like sponges, quickly absorbing information and forming habits. Begin training as soon as you bring them home to establish good behaviors from the start.
• Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a highly effective training technique. Reward your puppy with treats, praise, and affection whenever they exhibit the desired behavior. This approach encourages them to repeat the behavior and strengthens the bond between you.
• Consistency is Key: Consistency is vital in puppy training. Use the same commands, gestures, and cues consistently so your puppy can associate them with specific actions. This will help them understand what you expect from them. Try using a clicker tool!
• Socialization: Proper socialization is crucial for a well-adjusted and confident adult dog. Expose your puppy to various people, animals, environments, and experiences from an early age. This helps them become comfortable and adaptable in different situations. Make sure to have the right size collar or harness and leash for your puppy!
• Use a Crate: A crate can be a valuable tool for puppy training. It provides a safe and comfortable space for your puppy and helps with house training. Introduce the crate gradually and make it a positive and pleasant place for your puppy to relax and sleep. Use treats to help your puppy walk into the crate, and cover with a blanket or cover at night to help with distractions! We purchase a Snuggle Puppy for Shem, and it has been a game changer to help him sleep at night! I highly suggest it!
• Supervision and Management: Supervise your puppy at all times, especially during the early stages of training. This allows you to prevent accidents or unwanted behaviors and redirect their attention to appropriate activities. Use baby gates or a leash to manage their access to different areas of the house.
• Don't Punish: Avoid using punishment or harsh training methods with your puppy. Negative reinforcement can cause fear, anxiety, and aggression. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement to motivate and encourage good behavior. Saying 'NO' in a firm voice works, and make sure anytime your puppy has an accident in the house, take them outside immediately! 

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Training your puppy is a rewarding journey that requires time, effort, and patience. By starting early, using positive reinforcement, being consistent, and practicing socialization - you'll be well on your way to raising a well-behaved and happy companion. Remember to enjoy the process and cherish the special moments with your furry friend because they grow up so fast! While the puppy phase may have some frustrations, remember it won't last forever! If you are trying to figure out if it's the right time to get a puppy, check out the blog post I wrote that explains my reasoning!

Let's connect on Instagram & follow my pups too!