Puppy Training

Informal training should begin as soon as you bring a new puppy home at eight weeks old. Whenever it does anything you eventually want it to do onn command, such as sit, say theappropriate word several times while the puppy maintains that position. It will rapidly learn to associate the word with what it is doing. At the same time, praisee the puppy to let it know you are pleased with what it is doing. It quikly learns what praise words like "good dog" mean. If the puppy does something you do not want it to, say "No!", but only when you catch it actually misbehaving. Never discipline the puppy even seconds after it had done something wrong. It will not associate your discipline with the previous action. Early lead training can be started as soon as puppy is used to wearing a collar and lead.

The Basic Commannds
The Puppy's name

Each time you play with the puppy, repeatedly say its name. Sharp, two-syllable names like "Sparky" are easiest for a dog to learn.

Sitting on command

Hold the food bowl above the puppy so that it will sit in order to keep its eye on the bowl. As it does so, say the word "sit", then reward it with meal.

Training a puppy to lie down
By teaching a puppy to lie down you are telling it that you are in charge. Begin with a puppy in sitting position. Command, "Lie down", at the same time patting the ground in front of it. If the puppy ignores the command, ease it to the ground by gently pressing on its body and pulling its legs forwards. Give the puppy lots of praise when its lying down.

Training a puppy to come
With the puppy in the sit position and wearing its collar and lead to give you greater control, command it to wait. Remain standing in front of the puppy until it is settled. Do not pull on the lead. Slowly walk backwards away from the puppy to the end of the lead. Tell the puppy to "Come" and if it looks confused give the lead a gentle tug. Continue walking and encouraging the puppy to come to you. Always finish any exercise by praising the puppy. Stroking and food are powerful rewards. An encouraging, pleased tone of voice is important when praising a dog. Remember the puppy understands ot what you say but the way in wich you say it.

Preventing bad behaviour
Jumping up

If the puppy jumps up, gently push it down and say firmly, "No!". Command it to sit, and then greet it. A puppy must be discouraged from this type of behaviour early on.

Chewing objects

Meticoulously store away any personal items the puppy might chew. Provide it with several dog toys, giving it praise when they are chewed