Puptown Dog Training Houston

The Role of a Dog in a Family

Posted on March 22, 2023March 22, 2023 by Gideon

Dogs have been called “man’s best friend” for centuries, and for good reason. They are loyal, loving, and often considered a member of the family. The role of a dog in a family can vary depending on the household, but there are some common themes that most dog owners would agree on.

Photo by Andrea Brambila

Companionship

One of the most important roles a dog plays in a family is that of a companion. Dogs are social creatures and enjoy spending time with their humans. They are always happy to see us and are eager to be near us. This companionship can be especially important for people who live alone or those who have lost a loved one. A dog can provide comfort and help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Physical and Mental Health

Dogs also have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that owning a dog can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and increase our activity levels. They also provide emotional support, which can be helpful for people with anxiety or depression. Additionally, taking care of a dog can provide a sense of purpose and routine, which can be beneficial for our mental health.

Protection

Another important role a dog can play in a family is that of a protector. While not all dogs are bred for protection, many breeds are naturally protective of their families. They can bark to alert us of potential dangers or intruders, and their presence alone can deter criminals from targeting our homes. This can provide a sense of security for the entire family.

Teaching Responsibility

For families with children, owning a dog can be a valuable opportunity to teach responsibility. Children can learn how to care for another living being by feeding, walking, and grooming their dog. This can help instill a sense of empathy and responsibility in children, which can benefit them in other areas of their lives.

Bringing Joy

Perhaps one of the most obvious roles a dog plays in a family is that of a joy-bringer. Dogs have a way of making us laugh and smile, even on our toughest days. They are always excited to see us and are often eager to play. Their unconditional love and affection can bring a sense of happiness to our lives that is hard to replicate.

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family

While dogs can bring many benefits to a family, it’s important to choose the right dog for your household. Different breeds have different temperaments and activity levels, so it’s important to do your research before bringing a dog into your home. Some things to consider include:

Activity level: Do you want a dog that is high-energy and requires lots of exercise, or would you prefer a more low-key companion?
Size: Do you have enough space in your home and yard for a larger dog, or would a smaller breed be a better fit?
Temperament: Do you want a dog that is good with children or other pets, or do you have a specific temperament in mind?
Grooming needs: Some breeds require more grooming than others, so consider how much time and money you’re willing to invest in grooming.

The role of a dog in a family can be multifaceted. From providing companionship to teaching responsibility to bringing joy, dogs can have a positive impact on our lives. However, it’s important to choose the right dog for your household to ensure a successful and happy relationship. With the right breed and proper care, a dog can become an integral part of any family.

Lastly, dogs are intelligent animals with complex social and behavioral needs. While they are often referred to as “man’s best friend”, dogs are not born knowing how to behave in human society. Just like humans, dogs need to learn and follow social rules to live successfully and safely in their environment. This is where Lodge & Learn Training becomes crucial.

The Importance Of Puppy Socialization

Posted on March 21, 2023March 21, 2023 by Gideon

Bringing a new puppy into your life can be a joyful and exciting experience. However, it’s important to remember that puppies need more than just love and affection to grow into happy, healthy dogs. One of the most crucial aspects of raising a puppy is socialization. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of puppy socialization and how you can help your furry friend become a confident and well-adjusted adult dog.

What is Puppy Socialization?

Puppy socialization is the process of exposing your puppy to new experiences, people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period, which is typically between the ages of 3 and 14 weeks. During this time, puppies are more open to new experiences and are less likely to be fearful or anxious. By exposing them to a wide range of social experiences during this time, you can help your puppy learn to adapt to new situations, build confidence, and develop good behavior.

Photo by Ricardo IV Tamayo

Why is Puppy Socialization Important?

Socialization plays a crucial role in a puppy’s development. Puppies that are not adequately socialized may grow up to be fearful, anxious, or aggressive. Here are some reasons why socialization is so important:

Prevents Fear and Anxiety

Exposing your puppy to new experiences early on can help prevent them from developing fears and anxieties later in life. Puppies that are not socialized may become fearful of strangers, other dogs, or new environments, which can lead to behavior problems such as aggression or anxiety.

Builds Confidence

Puppies that are socialized properly are more likely to grow up to be confident, well-adjusted dogs. By exposing your puppy to new experiences and challenges, you can help them learn to cope with new situations and build confidence.

Prevents Aggression

Puppies that are not socialized may grow up to be aggressive towards other dogs or humans. By exposing them to a wide range of social experiences during their critical socialization period, you can help them learn appropriate social behavior and prevent aggression.

How to Socialize Your Puppy

Socializing your puppy is not difficult, but it does require some effort and planning. Here are some tips to help you socialize your puppy:

Expose your puppy to new experiences, people, and environments regularly. This can include taking your puppy to the park, inviting friends over, or taking them on car rides.

Introduce your puppy to other dogs and animals in a controlled environment. This can include play dates with other puppies or supervised meetings with well-behaved adult dogs.

Reward your puppy for good behavior. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior, such as treats or praise.

Be patient and take things slowly. Don’t overwhelm your puppy with too many new experiences at once. Gradually introduce new experiences, and always monitor their behavior.

Socialization is a critical part of raising a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted puppy. By exposing your puppy to new experiences, people, and environments during their critical socialization period, you can help them build confidence, prevent fear and anxiety, and prevent aggression. Remember to take things slowly, be patient, and use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. With time and effort, you can help your puppy grow into a confident and well-adjusted adult dog.

Do you need professional puppy training that includes socialization? Contact Puptown Houston now!

Helping Your Dog Through Separation Anxiety

Posted on March 20, 2023March 19, 2023 by Gideon

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.

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

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Gideon

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.

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!

How To Teach Your Dog The Shake Hands Trick

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Gideon

Photo by Bethany Ferr

Teaching your dog how to shake hands is not only a fun trick, but it can also be a useful behavior that can help you bond with your furry friend. Shaking hands is a basic trick that most dogs can learn, and it can be a great way to impress your friends and family. Here’s how to teach your dog the shake hands trick:

Start with a solid foundation

Before you start teaching your dog how to shake hands, it’s essential to make sure that they have a good understanding of basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay.” This will help you communicate better with your dog and make the training process easier.

Get your dog’s attention

Get your dog’s attention by calling their name or using a clicker. You can also use treats to get your dog’s attention, but make sure not to give them a treat until they have completed the behavior you’re asking for.

Place your dog in a sitting position

Once you have your dog’s attention, ask them to sit. You can use a treat to lure them into the sitting position, or you can gently push their rear down while saying “sit.” Make sure to praise your dog and give them a treat for sitting.

Hold a treat in your hand

Once your dog is sitting, hold a treat in your hand, and make sure your dog sees it. Your dog will likely start sniffing and pawing at your hand to get the treat.

Repeat the process

Repeat the process several times until your dog is consistently lifting their paw when you offer your hand and say “shake.” You can also try using a different hand or changing the position of your hand to make sure that your dog is responding to the command and not just a specific hand or position.

Phase out the treat

As your dog becomes more familiar with the command, start phasing out the treats. Instead of giving your dog a treat every time they shake hands, give them a treat every other time or every few times. Eventually, your dog will learn to shake hands without the need for a treat every time.

Practice regularly

Practice the shake command regularly to reinforce the behavior and keep it fresh in your dog’s mind. You can also try adding variations to the command, like using a different hand or having your dog shake with both paws.

Teaching your dog how to shake hands is a fun and easy trick that can be a great way to bond with your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to shake hands in no time. Remember to always use treats and praise to reward good behavior, and practice regularly to reinforce the behavior. With a little bit of training, your dog will be shaking hands like a pro in no time!

Contact Puptown Houston now and book an appointment to learn more about dog tricks!

5 Benefits of Owning a Trained Dog

Posted on February 2, 2023February 2, 2023 by Gideon

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:

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!

4 Ways to Raise An Obedient Puppy

Posted on December 28, 2017January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

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

Posted on December 13, 2017January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

Why to Crate Train a Puppy

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

Dogs 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

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dog training houston tx - Puptown Dog Training Houston

Companionship

Physical and Mental Health

Protection

Teaching Responsibility

Bringing Joy

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family

What is Puppy Socialization?

Why is Puppy Socialization Important?

Prevents Fear and Anxiety

Builds Confidence

Prevents Aggression

How to Socialize Your Puppy

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

Helping Your Dog through Separation Anxiety

Use the right equipment

Start with basic training

Use positive reinforcement

Be consistent

Don’t yank on the leash

Use a shorter leash

Exercise your dog before walking

Start with a solid foundation

Get your dog’s attention

Place your dog in a sitting position

Hold a treat in your hand

Repeat the process

Phase out the treat

Practice regularly

Increased obedience and behavior improvement:

Enhanced security and protection:

Better socialization and decreased aggression:

Improved mental and physical stimulation:

Stronger bond with owner:

Positive reinforcement

Hire a trainer

Obedience

Trust

Bottom Line

Ask a Professional for Advice

Why to Crate Train a Puppy

How to Choose a Good Dog Crate

Be Patient

Crating and Potty Training

Make it Comfortable

Start Small & Familiarize

Your Puppy’s Perspective

Summary

Why Never to Use the Crate as a Punishment

A Small Bladder

Ask a Professional for Advice

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