Adding a new puppy to your family is always exciting for everyone at home! While the transition can be a bit tricky especially since your everyday routine (and theirs) is now different, if you are prepped and ready from day one to train your pup, you will fall into a comfortable routine in no time. Since the transition can be overwhelming, even to the friendliest pets, approaching your training routine with consistency and patience from day one is a great way to help set them and you up for success. Here are some of the most important skills needed to train your new puppy.
Recognize their name
It may seem simple and like a no-brainer, but training your puppy to respond to and recognize their own name is a very important skill that you should practice early on. Once your pup starts to know that you are calling for them, you can have better control over all other commands like “stop”, “sit”, “stay”, etc. The best way to help them recognize their name is to be repetitive and say it with a happy tone. Practice from a variety of distances and say it when they are looking away from you as well as when they are looking at you to help it become familiar quickly.
Come when called
Not only is it helpful for you to have your pup come when called, it’s also a very important safety skill for them to respond when called to come to their owner. Regardless of if you’re ready to leave the park and head home or if there is a true emergency, this can be an incredibly valuable skill for everyone and one you should teach early on.
Walk on a leash
Allowing you to walk them on a leash is a gamechanger for both you and your new puppy. The AKC suggests that whatever cue you choose from “heel” or “let’s go” to “forward” is up to you, but it’s important to be consistent and always use the same word. For a step-by-step guide on how to teach your pup loose-leash walking, click here.
Love their crate
Puppies nap all the time, and having a safe space to nap and go back to when they need a break is important. One great way to help them understand that their crate is the perfect resting spot is to make the space a cozy and safe one, so they are encouraged to approach and spend time there.
Enjoy socializing
One tip from the AVMA for new puppy owners is to create a socialization plan specifically for your dog to prepare him or her for life in your household. Plan exposures to the animals, individuals, environments, activities, and objects that will be part of his or her new life. Provide regular positive and diverse experiences to encourage your dog or cat to enjoy new experiences without becoming fearful or aggressive.
If you are adopting a new puppy and need to schedule a veterinary appointment, our team at Bregman Veterinary Group is here to help. At Bregman Veterinary Group we make it our mission to help you determine the best course of action for your pet from the very beginning so that they can live long, healthy lives. To schedule an appointment for your new pup, click here to get started.
