Puppy Training Techniques - It's All About You Not Your Dog

It is recommended that you start training your new puppy when he is about 8 weeks old. The amount of success both you and your puppy will enjoy will be directly related to the puppy training techniques that you use. We do not encourage punishment but recommend treats and lots of praise for positive behavior. Your puppy will be anxious to please you so you just need to be patient as you teach him what acceptable behavior is.

If you have a young puppy, we recommend that you wait until he's at least 8 weeks old to begin formal training. You should start potty training your puppy as soon as you bring him home. You might find that using a portable kennel or crate is the easiest way to avoid accidents in the home. Using a crate is good for night training and times when you are not at home, we do not recommend leaving your puppy in the crate for extended periods when you are home with them.

Simple but effective puppy training techniques are more for teaching you, the owner, how to train your dog in a way that gets you the results you need. Many people wonder why their dog is not learning and it is usually because of the training methods they are using. If you are thinking of getting a puppy or already have one, keep these important points in mind as you train.

1. Be patient- Every dog is different and will learn at their own pace. Some dogs may take a little more time and patience but they will learn.

2. Be Kind- This goes right along with patience. Try not to lose your temper with your puppy. Don't punish your dog, effective puppy training techniques will teach you how to deal with negative behavior, without punishment. If your trainer or training book is promoting punishment, find another one!

3. Be flexible-If the method you are using does not seem to be getting any results you may need to change it a little. It could be that changing something as simple as the time of day, the location or the amount of time you spend on the training exercise could be all that is needed in order for your puppy to get it right. Maybe the exercise should be broken down into shorter simpler steps, but the key is not giving up or using punishment.

4. Be generous- Be generous with your rewards and praise. Always reward your puppy's correct responses positively with a treat and lots of praise. Be generous with your time as well, it is important that you allow enough time to relax and teach your puppy what he needs to know. Rushing through your training will only have a negative impact on your efforts

5. Treats- In the beginning you will use food treats, but over time you will be able to vary the rewards with a favorite toy or other object that your dog loves. All dogs are different and your dog might not like the most popular treat. You will need to find one that your dog really enjoys and will do anything to get. Playing a game of catch or tug of war is also a great way to reward your dog for a job well done.

As your puppy masters his exercises you may want to offer praise and a toy instead of food. It is important to keep your dog healthy and a life of constant treats may lead to obesity and other health issues.

However, we do feel that you should always offer your dog's favorite treat for coming when called. Besides teaching your puppy to go potty outside this is the most important lesson they can learn. It could save their life especially if they are running towards a dangerous situation.

Using good puppy training techniques will help you teach your puppy in a positive way that will get quick results. These techniques will also help your dog be confident and well adjusted. It's all about you and the way you train, not what breed of dog you have.

Belinda Nelson is a free lance copywriter who enjoys writing on a variety of subjects. Each article is carefully researched and put together for the benefit of the reader. Find out more about your pet and puppy training techniques by visiting: http://www.pethealthsite.info/ Be sure to sign up for your free gift!

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