Puppy tips

Following these tips at a young age will help create a calm and balanced adult dog, who can adapt and be comfortable in different situations. Before 4-6 months old, PDS believes that using food motivation, redirection and positive reinforcement is most beneficial. We want to create the most confident puppy. At 6 months and on we use balanced dog training throughout their life.

Kennel training is necessary for most dogs but especially puppies. Safety should be the number one priority. Just like putting a baby in a crib/pack & play, when you can’t keep a close eye on the puppy, they should be in the kennel. Chewing and potty accidents can occur when they are left alone and unsupervised.  The kennel should be a positive experience, like a den for wild dogs. The kennel should be the proper size, the dog should be able to stand, its legs fully extended and head level or erect. They should be able to turn and lay down comfortably. They should not have enough room to pace, which can create anxiety or cause them to potty on one side and lay on the other. Most wire kennels come with a divider, if your puppy is going to grow a considerable amount.

Do not talk, touch or make eye contact when unwanted behavior is displayed, as dogs can consider this praise. When you or new people greet your dog, keep in mind excitement and loud introductions can cause fear or arousal. If you want your dog to be calm around others, or when you come home, display that in your behavior and greeting as well. This goes the same for walks, if you want a calm walk, getting loud and showing heavy excitement will be counterproductive.

Practice heeling and keeping the pup by your side, using food to lure and leash pressure. Changing direction and pace is a great exercise as well.  

Walking into or stepping over them, so they move out of the way is getting them comfortable for different situations, like interactions with children. Rather than walking around them constantly.

Temperament testing is a great exercise to practice frequently. Think of what the groomer or vet would do. Check eyes, teeth, touch paws, lightly pull the tail, pinch toes etc. This will help get the puppy comfortable with these interactions and help with children’s interactions. Keep in mind that you should always be looking out for your puppy/dog and teach people/kids to have boundaries, behave properly and respectfully around your puppy/dog.

When unwanted behavior is displayed, your options are to ignore, redirect or correct the pup. Your decision on what to do will vary per situation and how your individual dog responds.

It is beneficial to properly and positively expose your puppy to new environments, objects, people, sounds, animals and situations. While guiding them on how to properly & positively respond to new things.

Potty training is tedious and time consuming. The main rule is to take them out frequently. When you cannot keep a close eye on them, kennel them. After they drink water or eat, take them out. A bell is a great tool near the door. Each time before opening the door, have the pup make contact with the bell. Once they hear the ring, use food to reward.

Stay consistent and be a strong leader they can trust!