Recently, I’ve adopted a puppy, and although I don’t regret it, I wish I would have prepared for the unforeseen challenges a furry friend can bring. While getting a puppy is an exciting time, training them takes some work – more than most people anticipate. To include some of the most vital lessons I have learned through training my new companion, I present to you the ultimate pet parenting guide, filled with tips that all owners should know.
Potty Training
Potty training can be a daunting task for new pet owners. Some puppies can be potty trained within a few days or might need a couple of weeks, depending on the breed and consistent training. According to the American Kennel Club, puppies should be taken outside frequently throughout the day because of their small bladder. When your puppy goes to the bathroom outdoors, give them praise, pets and treats. Additionally, I suggest keeping a close watch on your puppy to see if they are sniffing inside or starting to walk in a circle, as it indicates for you to take them outside immediately. If you have trouble training your dog, utilize puppy pads for younger dogs as it provides convenience for them to use when you are away from home.
Crate Training
Crate training can be a necessity to utilize in training, dealing with separation anxiety and more. While you may not be able to keep tabs on your puppy throughout the day, crates can serve as a safe area to lock your pet in to avoid any potential damages within the home. I recommend having the crate ready before you bring the puppy home so they can start becoming familiar with it right away. Don’t force your puppy into the crate, and avoid locking them in on the first day of visiting their new home. As suggested by the American Animal Hospital Association, leave the crate door open at all times for the first few days and give your puppy food, water and treats in their crate to associate positive reinforcement for your pet. After a few days, try shutting the door behind your puppy for a few seconds and then open it again. If they don’t whine, you can shut the door for a bit longer. Provide your puppy with the command “crate” whenever you lead them into the crate with a treat. This will teach your puppy to go into their crate on command, and help them warm up to their new space.
Socialization Classes
Puppy classes are a wonderful opportunity to get your pet familiarized with other dogs. Socialization skills are essential for a puppy as it encourages them to adapt to new environments and develop respectful behaviors when playing with other dogs. Consider visiting some local training service spots like Dog Days Dog Training or Cj’s Dog Training, located in Vancouver. This way you can ensure your puppy is getting proper training. As your puppy becomes more comfortable around a variety of situations, they will less likely be aggressive towards other humans and dogs when they feel uneasy or afraid.
In retrospect, it is impossible to cover everything about taking care of a new puppy in just one article, but some of these suggestions might help make your life as a pet parent easier. Don’t forget that every pet is different, so be sure to enjoy the process and take it one paw print at a time!