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When you bring a new puppy home, it is not uncommon to have a transition period. After all, it is often stressful for new puppies to go through the changes of weaning from mom, painful teething, unfamiliar sights and sounds, and adjusting to a new home. Educating yourself about appropriate training methods is key to providing your puppy with the support they need to acclimatize and bond with their new surroundings and family.
Training your puppy might initially seem overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that all your interactions with your puppy are potential lessons. Everything matters, from the tone of your voice, your reaction to their accidents or good behaviour, to how you walk them on a leash. But, your puppy will gradually learn what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour.
Use this guide to puppy training to help make the process and transition less overwhelming, more seamless, and more rewarding for you and your new furry friend.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools for shaping your dog’s behaviour when training your puppy. Using rewards such as treats, toys, and praise will likely encourage them to repeat the behaviour. The American Kennel Club suggests that rewards influence dog behaviour and teach them to love training, enabling them to earn rewards they love. They are more likely to become active participants in the training process as it eliminates the fear of doing something wrong and diverts the focus on learning.
Establish a Schedule
Dogs are creatures of habit, and an orderly routine gives them the structure to thrive in their new environment. If you want your dog’s behaviour to align with your expectations, providing them with a daily routine that helps them relax and reduce anxiety associated with unfamiliarity is important.
Establishing a schedule involves taking them out within timed intervals, enforcing crate time, going on daily walks, and setting fixed mealtimes. One of the most effective ways to develop a routine is by being consistent with mealtimes, as this can determine when they may need to go for potty breaks or walks.
Integrating raw food into your dog’s diet is a great way to establish a schedule and get them into good habits. Introducing your puppy to raw food can improve digestion, influence their bowel movements, create a routine for potty breaks, and reduce the risk of accidents inside the home. When you choose raw foods that are low glycemic from Bold By Nature, your puppy can enjoy the benefits of a delicious and healthy meal that keeps them thriving.
Socialize Your Puppy
Like humans, dogs also need interaction with other social beings to live happier lives. Socialization involves exposing your puppy to new people, animals, and places, enabling them to experience various sights, sounds, smells, and sensations. According to the Animal Humane Society, puppies who miss out on these experiences will have a tough time being comfortable around unfamiliar things, which can result in the development of anxiety, fear, and aggression later on in life.
Once your puppy has received all their initial vaccinations and has been given the green light from the vet to start socializing, start introducing your four-legged friends to new people, animals, and environments.
Bringing a puppy home is an exciting new step for you and your family. Make the best of it by adopting the best training strategies to help your new furry friend live a healthy and happy life!
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