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Dog Training at Home – Possible or Not?

Dog training at home can be a challenging task, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. While many people opt to send their dogs to professional trainers, there are also many benefits to training your dog at home. We will explore the possibility of training your dog at home, the benefits and challenges, and some tips for successful training.

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Photo by Jamie Street

Is it Possible to Train Your Dog at Home?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to train your dog at home! In fact, training your dog at home can be a more effective approach for some dogs, as it allows for more personalized attention and a consistent routine. However, it is important to keep in mind that training your dog at home requires a lot of time, patience, and effort on your part.

Training your dog at home requires a deep understanding of your dog’s behaviors, learning style, and temperament. It is important to tailor your training methods to your dog’s individual needs, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. With the right techniques and a commitment to consistency, you can successfully train your dog at home.

 

Benefits of Training Your Dog at Home

Training your dog at home has several benefits, including:

Personalized attention: When you train your dog at home, you can give them individual attention and focus on their unique needs. This can be especially beneficial for dogs that are easily distracted or have behavioral issues that need extra attention.

  • Consistency: When you train your dog at home, you can establish a consistent routine and reinforce behaviors consistently. This can help your dog learn more quickly and be more responsive to your commands.
  • Comfort: Many dogs feel more comfortable and relaxed in their home environment, which can make the training process easier and more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
  • Cost-effective: Training your dog at home can be more cost-effective than hiring a professional trainer, as you can use simple training tools and techniques that you already have on hand.

 

Challenges of Training Your Dog at Home

Training your dog at home also has some challenges that you should be aware of, including:

  • Distractions: Training your dog at home can be challenging due to distractions such as other family members, noises, and smells. It is important to find a quiet, distraction-free space for training sessions.
  • Lack of expertise: If you are not experienced in dog training, you may not know the most effective techniques for your dog’s individual needs. It is important to do your research and seek advice from professionals or experienced dog owners.
  • Time commitment: Training your dog at home requires a significant time commitment, as you will need to set aside regular training sessions and be consistent with reinforcing behaviors.
  • Behavioral issues: Some dogs may have serious behavioral issues that require the expertise of a professional trainer. If your dog has aggression, anxiety, or other serious issues, it may be best to seek professional help.

 

Tips for Successful Dog Training at Home

If you are ready to train your dog at home, here are some tips for success:

  • Start with the basics: Begin with basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Once your dog has mastered these commands, you can move on to more advanced training.
  • Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is the most effective training technique, as it rewards good behavior and encourages your dog to repeat it. Use treats, praise, and toys to reward your dog for good behavior.
  • Be consistent: Consistency is key to successful dog training. Set a regular training schedule and stick to it, and be consistent with your commands and rewards.
  • Keep training sessions short: Dogs have short attention spans, so keep training sessions short and focused.

Dog Behavior Training From an Early Age

Dogs are widely regarded as man’s best friend, and for good reason. They’re loyal, affectionate, and have a natural ability to understand and interact with humans in a way that no other animal can. However, owning a dog also comes with a great deal of responsibility. One of the most important responsibilities that comes with owning a dog is to ensure that they are well-behaved and well-trained. This is why dog behavior training from an early age is so important.

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Training your dog from an early age is essential for a number of reasons. Firstly, it helps to prevent any potential behavior problems from developing. Dogs that are not trained are much more likely to develop bad habits such as jumping up, barking excessively, or even biting. These behaviors can be difficult to correct once they become ingrained, and can even lead to the dog being rehomed or euthanized.

 

Secondly, training your dog from an early age helps to establish a strong bond between you and your pet. Dogs are social animals and thrive on attention and interaction from their owners. By training your dog, you are not only teaching them obedience and good manners, but you are also spending quality time with them and strengthening your relationship.

 

So, how can you start training your dog from an early age? Here are some tips to get you started:

 

Start with the basics

When it comes to training your dog, it’s important to start with the basics. This means teaching them simple commands such as “sit”, “stay”, and “come”. These commands are the foundation of all training, and will help you to establish a good relationship with your dog.

 

Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the key to successful dog training. This means rewarding your dog for good behavior, rather than punishing them for bad behavior. When your dog performs a command correctly, reward them with a treat or praise. This will encourage them to repeat the behavior in the future.

 

Be consistent

Consistency is important when it comes to dog training. Make sure that everyone in your household is using the same commands and techniques, so that your dog doesn’t get confused. It’s also important to train your dog regularly, rather than sporadically. This will help them to learn the commands more quickly and effectively.

 

Socialize your dog

Socialization is an important part of dog behavior training. This means exposing your dog to a variety of people, animals, and situations from an early age. This will help them to develop confidence and good manners, and will also prevent them from becoming anxious or aggressive in new situations.

 

Seek professional help if needed

If you’re having difficulty training your dog, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A qualified dog trainer can provide you with the guidance and support you need to train your dog effectively.

 

Dog behavior training from an early age is essential for the well-being of your pet, as well as your relationship with them. By starting with the basics, using positive reinforcement, being consistent, socializing your dog, and seeking professional help if needed, you can ensure that your dog grows up to be a happy, well-behaved, and much-loved member of your family.

How To Read Your Dog’s Subtle Cues

Dogs are highly social creatures that communicate with us in many ways. Unlike humans, dogs cannot use language to express their needs and emotions. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to their body language and behavior to understand what they are trying to tell us. Here are some tips on how to read your dog’s subtle cues.

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Photo by Angel Luciano

 

Tail Wagging

Most people think that tail wagging always means a dog is happy. However, this is not always the case. Dogs can wag their tails for different reasons, and it’s crucial to pay attention to the context in which the tail wagging occurs. For instance, a dog may wag its tail slowly and stiffly, which can indicate anxiety or aggression. On the other hand, a relaxed and loose tail wagging usually means that the dog is happy and content.

 

Ears

A dog’s ears can also tell you a lot about how they are feeling. When a dog’s ears are erect and pointed forward, they are usually alert and paying attention to something. If the ears are flat against their head, this can indicate fear or submission. Additionally, when a dog’s ears are pinned back against their head, this can indicate aggression or anxiety.

 

Body Language

A dog’s body language can also give you a lot of information about their emotional state. For instance, if a dog’s body is relaxed, they are probably feeling calm and content. However, if their body is tense or stiff, this can indicate anxiety or aggression. Additionally, if a dog is cowering or trying to make themselves small, this can indicate fear or submission.

 

Facial Expressions

A dog’s facial expressions can also tell you a lot about how they are feeling. For example, a dog with a relaxed face, with an open mouth and relaxed eyes, is likely feeling calm and content. However, if a dog’s lips are curled back, showing their teeth, or their eyes are narrowed and focused, this can indicate aggression or fear.

 

Vocalizations

Finally, a dog’s vocalizations can also give you some clues about how they are feeling. For instance, if a dog is barking loudly and rapidly, they may be excited or agitated. However, if a dog is growling or barking in a low tone, this can indicate aggression or fear.

 

It’s essential to pay attention to your dog’s body language and behavior to understand how they are feeling. By learning to read your dog’s subtle cues, you can better communicate with them and respond appropriately to their needs. Remember that every dog is unique, and it’s essential to pay attention to their individual personality and behavior. With time and practice, you can become an expert in understanding your dog’s body language and behavior.

If you’re having a difficult time figuring out your dog’s behavior, contact a professional now!

Helping Your Dog Through Separation Anxiety

Dogs are social animals, and they form strong bonds with their owners. So, when their owners leave them alone, it can cause them to become anxious, stressed, and even depressed. This condition is known as separation anxiety, and it’s one of the most common behavioral problems in dogs. If your dog has separation anxiety, it’s essential to understand the causes and symptoms of the condition and how to help your furry friend overcome it. Here are the way of helping your dog through separation anxiety.

 

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Photo by Razvan Sassu

 

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can be caused by several factors, including:

  • Lack of socialization: Dogs that were not adequately socialized as puppies may become anxious when left alone.
  • Changes in routine: Changes in the owner’s work schedule, moving to a new home, or changes in the household can all trigger separation anxiety.
  • Past experiences: Dogs that have had traumatic experiences, such as being abandoned or surrendered to a shelter, may be more prone to separation anxiety.
  • Genetics: Some breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, may be more prone to separation anxiety.

 

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

The symptoms of separation anxiety can vary from dog to dog. Some common signs to watch out for include:

  • Destructive behavior: Dogs with separation anxiety may chew, scratch, or dig at doors, windows, or furniture when left alone.
  • Barking, howling, or whining: Dogs with separation anxiety may vocalize excessively when left alone.
  • House soiling: Dogs with separation anxiety may urinate or defecate in the house when left alone, even if they are house-trained.
  • Pacing or restlessness: Dogs with separation anxiety may pace back and forth, drool excessively, or exhibit other signs of restlessness when left alone.

 

 

Helping Your Dog through Separation Anxiety

If your dog has separation anxiety, there are several things you can do to help them overcome the condition. Here are some tips:

  • Gradual desensitization: Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods of time, gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable.
  • Positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they exhibit calm behavior when left alone.
  • Environmental enrichment: Provide your dog with toys, puzzles, and other forms of entertainment to keep them occupied when you’re not home.
  • Consistency: Establish a routine for your dog that they can rely on. Feed them at the same time each day, and establish a consistent bedtime.
  • Medication: In severe cases, your vet may prescribe medication to help your dog manage their anxiety.
  • Professional help: Consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to help you address your dog’s separation anxiety.

 

Separation anxiety can be a challenging condition to manage, but with patience and consistency, you can help your furry friend overcome it. By understanding the causes and symptoms of separation anxiety and following the tips outlined above, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and confident when left alone. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. So, be patient and persistent, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.

How To Get Your Dog To Stop Pulling On The Leash

Taking your furry friend out for a walk is an excellent way to bond with them and keep them healthy. However, it can be challenging to enjoy a walk with your dog when they are constantly pulling on the leash, making it difficult to control them. This behavior can be frustrating for both you and your dog, and it’s important to address it as soon as possible to ensure a pleasant walking experience. Here are some tips on how to get your dog to stop pulling on the leash.

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Photo by Brady Wakely

 

Use the right equipment

One of the main reasons dogs pull on the leash is that they are uncomfortable or feel restricted by their collar or harness. Invest in a high-quality harness that fits your dog comfortably, and that has a front clip that attaches to the leash. This will allow you to have better control over your dog’s movements and help reduce pulling.

 

Start with basic training

Before you start walking your dog, it’s important to teach them basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” This will give you more control over your dog and help you communicate better with them. You can also train them to walk calmly beside you by using treats and positive reinforcement.

 

Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when it comes to training your dog. Whenever your dog walks calmly beside you, reward them with treats, praise, or toys. This will reinforce good behavior and encourage your dog to continue walking calmly. Over time, your dog will learn that walking calmly on a leash is a positive experience.

 

Be consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog. Make sure you use the same commands and techniques every time you take your dog for a walk. If you switch between different techniques, your dog may become confused and less responsive to your commands.

 

Don’t yank on the leash

Yanking on the leash can hurt your dog and may actually encourage them to pull more. Instead, use a gentle tug on the leash to redirect your dog’s attention and encourage them to walk calmly beside you. You can also use verbal cues like “easy” or “steady” to remind your dog to slow down.

 

Use a shorter leash

A longer leash can give your dog more freedom to pull and may make it harder for you to control them. Use a shorter leash to keep your dog closer to you and reduce pulling.

 

Exercise your dog before walking

A tired dog is less likely to pull on the leash. Before going for a walk, play with your dog or take them for a short run to help burn off excess energy.

 

Getting your dog to stop pulling on the leash requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By using the right equipment, training your dog in basic obedience, and rewarding good behavior, you can enjoy a pleasant walking experience with your furry friend. With time and practice, your dog will learn to walk calmly beside you, and you can both enjoy the benefits of daily walks.

Reach out to us now to know more!

5 Benefits of Owning a Trained Dog

Owning a trained dog can bring numerous benefits for both the owner and the dog. A trained dog is a pet that has undergone training to learn obedience and perform specific tasks or behaviors on command. This training can include basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” as well as more complex tasks such as agility training, therapy work, and search and rescue operations. Here are the 5 benefits of owning a trained dog:

5 Benefits of Owning A Trained Dog
Photo by Destiny Wiens
Increased obedience and behavior improvement:

A well-trained dog is more likely to follow commands, making it easier for the owner to manage their behavior. This can lead to a more harmonious and enjoyable relationship between the owner and the dog. Additionally, behavior problems such as excessive barking, chewing, or jumping can be addressed and improved through training.

 

Enhanced security and protection:

Trained dogs can be excellent protectors, keeping their owners and their home safe. They can be taught to bark at strangers or intruders, alerting the owner to potential dangers. Some breeds, such as German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois, are particularly suited for protection work and can be trained in specific tasks such as personal protection or police work.

 

Better socialization and decreased aggression:

A well-trained dog is more likely to interact well with other dogs and people, reducing the risk of aggressive behavior. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs who struggle with socialization, allowing them to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. Training can also help owners manage and prevent aggression in their dogs, promoting a safer environment for all.

 

Improved mental and physical stimulation:

Training provides mental stimulation for dogs, helping to keep their minds active and engaged. This can be especially beneficial for dogs who are prone to boredom and destructive behavior. Physical stimulation is also important, and trained dogs are often able to engage in more physical activity, such as agility or obedience trials, helping to keep them fit and healthy.

 

Stronger bond with owner:

The process of training a dog can help to strengthen the bond between the owner and the dog. The dog learns to trust and respect the owner, and the owner learns to understand and communicate with the dog more effectively. This can lead to a closer and more loving relationship between the owner and the dog.

 

In conclusion, owning a trained dog has many benefits that can improve the life of both the owner and the dog. From increased obedience and behavior improvement, to enhanced security and protection, to better socialization and decreased aggression, there are many reasons why owners should consider training their dogs. Additionally, the process of training can help to strengthen the bond between the owner and the dog, leading to a closer and more fulfilling relationship.

Do you need professional dog training? At Puptown Houston we offer a variety of dog training services. Contact us!

Effective Puppy Training Techniques: A Guide For New Pet Owners

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. Puppies, like babies, require a lot of time, patience, and consistent training in order to grow into well-behaved adult dogs. In this guide, we will discuss some effective puppy training techniques that will help you raise a happy and well-trained pet.

Puptown Houston Dog Training Facility: Effective Puppy Training Photo by Andrew Schultz from Unsplash

Start Early

The first thing to keep in mind when training your puppy is to start early. As soon as you bring your puppy home, begin working on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Consistency is key when it comes to puppy training, so make sure to set aside time each day to work on these commands.

Potty Training

Another important aspect of puppy training is potty training. This can be one of the most challenging aspects of raising a new puppy, but it is also one of the most important. To potty train your puppy, establish a regular schedule for feeding, walking, and going outside. This will help your puppy learn when it is appropriate to go potty.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is also an important part of puppy training. This means rewarding your puppy when they do something good, rather than punishing them when they make a mistake. Treats, praise, and playtime are all great ways to reward your puppy for good behavior.

Socialization

Socialization is also an important part of puppy training. Socializing your puppy means exposing them to different people, animals, and environments. This will help them become well-adjusted adults who are comfortable in a variety of situations.

Patience

Lastly, it is important to remember that every puppy is different and may learn at a different pace. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if your puppy doesn’t seem to be catching on quickly. With time, patience, and consistency, your puppy will learn and grow into a well-behaved adult dog.

In conclusion, training your new puppy can be a lot of work, but it is also a lot of fun. By using positive reinforcement, consistency, and socialization, you can raise a well-trained and happy pet. Remember to be patient and always keep in mind that every puppy is different and learn at their own pace.

Do You Have Puppy That Needs Training? Visit us at Our Facility

Puptown Houston Proves to Be The Best Dog and Puppy Training Facility

 

The Greater Houston area is served by the Dog Training facility located at Puptown Houston. Their associated facilities are able to provide services such as daycare for dogs, boarding, grooming, and training for both you and your new puppy.

Your pups are going to have a wonderful time at our massive partner facility, which is spread out across a total area of 30,000 square feet.

Your pet will have a great time running about and playing in the obstacle courses, pools, and many play areas that are all air-conditioned at our facility. 

They have numerous wonderful cooling zones for your dog to use while they are outside so that they may avoid overheating. They provide what is considered to be one of the unique dog training programs in all of Houston.

Their aim is to teach your dog in a way that is beneficial to them throughout the process. When it comes to the education, training, or instruction of appropriate house manners for dogs, there is no such thing as a cookie-cutter method that works for all dogs. 

Their dog trainers have the expertise and skills necessary to assist you in accomplishing your training goals so that your pet is well-behaved.

If you are looking for obedience training, puppy training, training for assistance dogs, or private sessions, they provide all of those services as well. Your pet dog, be it an adult dog or a young puppy, can pick up new skills throughout the day if it takes part in a variety of activities, both solo and with other dogs.

They will acquire the knowledge they require in a safe and supportive environment where they may have faith, experience care, and, most importantly, feel loved. At Puptown Houston’s dog training facility and obedience school, dogs are allowed to learn at their own pace and in a manner that is tailored to their own personalities.

Early History of Puptown Houston

The future of some pets is sealed for them in the chilly steel cages that can be found in their owners’ houses. Many of these animals are not allowed to run around the house freely for a variety of reasons, most of which center on their potentially violent tendencies. 

Puptown Houston Dog Training is an enthusiastic business with the goal of bettering the lives of both pets and their owners via the process of socializing dogs as members of the family through proper training.

Sheena Zaidi, the owner and founder of Puptown Houston Dog Training, has a fascinating backstory that inspired the establishment of the company. She was a Muslim woman, and the religious society she belonged to did not approve of her affection for dogs because Muslims are not permitted to own animals, even dogs. 

However, she was not prepared to give up her love for animals, and she was adamant about working toward the realization of her goal of opening a dog training center. 

Even though the terrible event caused her to be kicked out of her religious community and even though she encountered bigotry along the road, she is currently creating an empire in the dog training sector, and she is quite happy about it.

The idea behind the establishment of this business was to make available to individuals a method of training that would finally make it possible for their animals “to be part of the family environment.” 

The dog training company also donates service dogs on an annual basis to military veterans, children diagnosed with autism, and individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, mobility challenges, hearing impairment, and other conditions.

Dog Training Based on Real-World Experiences

This dog training institution is notable not just for the exceptional quality of its training services but also for the charitable work that it does. The money made from training service dogs is put toward fundraising efforts that support various grant and scholarship programs. 

Puptown Houston Dog Training also gives back to the community by donating portions of its annual profits to a variety of local groups that focus on charitable work.

The “real world” training that the company provides for dogs is a source of great pride for the business. 

It is important for customers who want to bring their dogs to the beach, on a picnic, or to their favorite coffee shop to have a well-behaved pet that will not become overwhelmed by the situation, and this is what Puptown Houston Dog Training strives to help clients achieve. Puptown Houston Dog Training is located in Houston, Texas.

Service Dog Training

Anyone who suffers from a mental or physical impairment and believes that the use of a service dog will improve their overall quality of life qualifies to receive one. 

Interaction with a therapy dog may also be beneficial for professionals who work for organizations that offer care for client’s physical or mental health. 

These organizations may give either physical or mental health treatment to their patients. However, a therapy dog is not the same thing as a service dog.

Due to the extensive amount of time required for service dog training, Puptown only accepts a certain number of applications for dogs each year to become service dogs. Puptown Houston works with grant programs that will pay the cost of the dog and the training necessary for it to be a service dog for injured veterans, EMS personnel, and first responders.

Members of the Puptown Houston team provide owners with information on the advantages of dog training. Training assistance dogs for persons who have disabilities is one of the company’s areas of expertise. 

They have the goal of assisting both owners and the companion animals they share their homes within, leading happier and healthier lives. 

Their employees put in a lot of effort to broaden people’s perspectives on dog ownership in the hopes of fostering a closer relationship between families and their pets.

The fact that all of the instructors also own dogs is one of the many advantages of the training program. They are aware of the manner in which you like your dog to be treated. 

Because of their extensive expertise, they are considered to be among the most reputable service dog trainers in the Houston region.

Puppy Training

There is a stage in every dog’s life that is referred to as the imprinting age. During this stage of his or her development, your puppy will acquire knowledge that will remain with him or her for the remainder of his or her life. 

You have the opportunity to teach your puppy anything at this stage, including but not limited to obedience commands like sit, down, heel, come, climb, as well as house manners, socializing, and more. 

Simply explain your expectations to the staff at Puptown Houston, and they will craft a program that is tailored to both you and your new dog.

25 Years of Experience in the Field of Dog Training

Puptown Houston Dog Training’s trained and experienced trainers have a combined 25 years of experience, which they put to use in the training of the animals while maintaining very high standards of care. 

They employ all four quadrants of learning in order to accomplish high-quality and long-lasting results in a very short amount of time. 

The focus of the trainers is on imparting knowledge to the owners that will allow them to continue the training at home. The achievement of real-world training is the primary focus, rather than flashy tricks and gimmicks.

The training packages at Puptown Houston Dog Training include lifelong support and care services available around the clock. This is due to the company’s belief that training is an ongoing process that never concludes. 

Because the organization considers activities like walks, playing, and snuggling time to be necessities that should be provided for all dogs, clients are not required to pay additional fees for these activities.

In point of fact, Puptown Houston Dog Training provides its customers with an unparalleled level of enthusiasm, work ethic, and commitment. 

This company’s dog training services are ideal for dog lovers with a strong commitment to their pets and a desire to provide them with the highest level of care and an education that will serve them for the rest of their lives.

Puptown Houston’s 3 Principals of Training

When it comes to teaching a dog, timing is everything. This is related to how a dog’s brain deals with the concept of causation. In order for a dog to learn to link a specific action with the desired outcome, that action must be reinforced within 1.3 seconds.

The second principle in dog training is consistency. The result is an improved ability for the dog and its owner to communicate. Dogs sometimes fail to grasp the concept that they should not leap on their owners while they bring in food. Again, the dog has to hear your response to its action within 1.3 seconds for it to register.

The training system rests on three pillars, and the fourth is figuring out what drives your dog. This is how you may affect your dog’s judgment. An individual can be motivated in either a positive or negative way. Motivating your dog to come when called means rewarding him for obeying your commands. You may accomplish this by giving them compliments, patting them, and maybe even giving them a reward.

4 Ways to Raise An Obedient Puppy

Adopting a puppy can bring you a lot of joy, but there are also challenges attached to it. Training a puppy for obedience can be difficult, and the first few stages of getting them to do things can take a while.

Puppies add a lot to our lives and become our undeterred companions. Raising an obedient puppy requires patience and time.  They need to be taught how to do things and not think of the living room as a toilet, much like children.

Puppies if not treated properly may show signs of aggression and bad behavior, which can lead to other problems. Remember taking a dog in is a responsibility; it does not matter if you are simply adopting it or buying it for your choices, and it is a two way relationship.

Training, a lot of affection and positive reinforcement are the keys to raising a loving, healthy and obedient puppy.

Here are a few tips that can help you a lot in raising your puppy right.

Positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the best way to get your puppy to obey. New experiences can be challenging for your puppy, they may feel afraid and overwhelmed, which can cause them to freak out. When taking them on their first walk or car ride, talk to your puppy and maintain a positive attitude, and yes, keep rubbing his belly. Make sure that they feel ready for the adventure. Whenever he listens to you or does something that is positive, give them a treat if they are acting-out or barking at people or jumping on them presuming a disappointed tone is better than resorting to extreme measures and punishment.

Hire a trainer

Rely on professional help if you need help; you can always take the time out to enroll your puppy into a board and train facility.  Professional trainers will teach your puppy how to behave obediently, they will potty train him and teach them how to act in crowds and whatnot – which will make things easier for you in the long run.

Obedience

Obedience is not just limited to your dog getting off the table; training your puppy to listen to you is a powerful means of keeping the little guy safe. Practicing multiple situations such as telling your dog to come to you when in the park, telling them to jump over an obstacle or avoid touching something that may be harmful; can set the right pace for you and your dog. Telling it to lie down, roll over and stand up are starter commands that can help your pup learn to be more obedient.  And of course, a treat can always help.

Trust

Puppies require attention and affection.  They can become attached to the individual spending the most time with them.  As a result, they may begin to become aggressive or intolerant of others.  So your family needs to be as involved in their daily activities as they can. Make sure all the members in your family are on the same page when you are adopting a puppy.

Bottom Line

Your efforts will make the right impact on your puppy and they will definitely respond to your approach and actions. Using the above mentioned tips can be extremely helpful in training a well-loved obedient little puppy.

 

Ask a Professional for Advice

If you have any questions about the above information, please contact us.  Or if you would like to inquire about training options where our professionals train your puppy for you at our facility, please call us today at 832-930-0073!

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Crate Training for your Puppy

Why to Crate Train a Puppy

puppy crate training houston tx

Dog crates can serve many purposes, but two stand above all others- potty training and safety.

Anyone who has raised a puppy knows they are like small human children, and must be watched constantly or the puppy could chew up electrical cables, bedding, chew the paint off walls (yes- that too), or swallow small objects that can pose a choking hazard. It is in the puppy’s best interest to be crated when it can’t be monitored, if only to keep the puppy safe.

 

How to Choose a Good Dog Crate

Consider a well ventilated crate large enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around in easily. Bear in mind as your puppy grows (and they do grow fast), he will need more room. It’s usually a good idea to invest in a full size crate adjusted for his expected adult growth! If your dog is a mixed breed, consider the expected size of the larger breed in the mix.

Also, try to avoid purchasing an overly large crate. Too much room might allow for your puppy to make a mess without disturbing his immediate bedding.

Be Patient

Crate Training can take days or weeks, depending on your dog’s past experiences. In the case of shelter dogs, workers sometimes can’t get to the puppy in time; proper training may take longer because the dog is used to eliminating in his enclosure.

Crating and Potty Training

puppy crate training houston txDogs prefer not to relieve themselves in small confined areas or where they sleep. In the crate, your puppy will hold his bladder as long as he can. Bear in mind- that is a very small and underdeveloped bladder; your puppy will need frequent potty breaks.

Make it Comfortable

Don’t think of your puppy’s crate as a cage, but more of a comfy doggy den! Make sure the bottom is lined with soft blankets or other comfortable material. Leave a favorite toy or two in your dog crate. Most of all- never, ever, associate your crate with punishment. In order for your training to run smoothly, you’ll want your little one to enjoy his little den!

Start Small & Familiarize

This is possibly both the most important step to the training process and the most neglected. In order to avoid anxiety from developing, you absolutely must be patient and let your puppy become accustomed to his or her crate. In other words, don’t start off the bat crating for hours at a time unless it is absolutely unavoidable.

Begin by letting your puppy inspect the crate with the door open. After you do this once or twice, start out by creating your pup for short 5,10 or 20 minute intervals while you are in the room. After you’ve done this a few times, you can begin crating and leaving the room for short durations.

If you have to work on Monday, try starting out Friday after you return home. In order to create further pleasant associations, begin feeding your dog in his crate at feeding time.

Be sure to set a potty training/ crating schedule for your puppy to help familiarize them to the process!

Your Puppy’s Perspective

Dogs all too often developed separation anxiety, sometimes to an extreme, possibly even causing injury in attempts to escape or tearing up blanketing to confetti, because owners start out by caging them for day- long periods. Remember, dogs do not understand why they are being caged, and often think their pack- family member and parent has left them, never to return. How would you feel if you were placed in a small cell with no explanation or other human contact?

The entire idea behind this gradual process is to give your puppy time to adjust, showing him or her you will always return and he doesn’t need to worry. Remember to crate various times throughout the day to help your puppy familiarize himself to the process!

Summary

Introduce your dog to the crate.
Begin crating while you are in the room.
Feed your dog meals in the crate.
Start leaving the room.
Slowly lengthen crating periods (with appropriate bathroom breaks).
Begin crating your puppy when you leave.
Crate your puppy at night.

Why Never to Use the Crate as a Punishment

Comfortability ranks right up there with familiarity and patience above. You always want your puppy to form positive associations with his crate at all times! If you crate your puppy directly after chastisement, he will learn ‘crate means my parent is upset; I don’t like the crate because I don’t want the parent to be upset’.

A Small Bladder

Crate training a puppy is different from crate training an adult dog. Even if you have to work, expect to come home to soiled bedding if you leave your puppy crated all day. Small puppies are still growing and developing, and need frequent potty breaks.

On the other hand, it is a good idea to begin crating your puppy overnight. He will probably whine at first, and you probably won’t get a full night’s rest (but that is to be expected for any young puppy owner). Most puppies should be able to sleep the entire night without a potty break by 4 months of age.

  • Barring sleep, puppies under 6 months of age shouldn’t stay crated for more than 3-4 hours at a time (Humane Society)
  • It is said puppies can be crated without potty breaks for their age (months) in hours plus one. Ex.- 3 months = 4 hours
  • In order to properly develop social skills, puppies shouldn’t be separated from litter mates prior to four weeks. Many experts recommend no less than eight weeks.

Ask a Professional for Advice

If you have any questions about the above information, please contact us.  Or if you would like to inquire about training options where our professionals train your puppy for you at our facility, please call us today at 832-930-0073!

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