Write a commentDogs are learning from the moment they are born and continue to learn throughout their lifetime if exposed to new people, places and things.
Traditional training methods based on forceful methods requires the dog to be 6 months or older before starting any training. This was simply because the dog needed to be able to withstand the physically punishing corrections used in training. An understanding of the science behind learning theory and the methods used to best apply these concepts have changed how and when to train our dogs in a much more humane way.
A good breeder, whether of mix breed or pure bred dogs, will begin training the puppies the moment they are born. Care must be taken during the first few weeks of life to lay the ground work necessary for the puppies to succeed in the world. It is critically important that the puppies remain with their mothers and litter-mates through the first 8 weeks of life. Just as our children learn to share and cooperate with other children in elementary school, our puppies need to learn the same lessons. These lessons are best taught in a safe, enriched environment in the company of their mother and litter-mates.
There are many times when puppies are separated prior to 8 weeks of age causing them to develop issues that can plague them for a l ifetime. Issues such as
resource guarding, increased vocalizations, fear of other dogs and lack of impulse control are commonly indicative of a puppy separated too early from its mother and litter-mates.
When initially choosing a puppy, adolescent or adult dog please keep this in mind: ask questions of the seller, foster parent, shelter staff or rescue organization representative to determine whether the puppy or dog you are interested in may fall into this at risk group. Choose carefully.
There are many formal training options out there for you to choose from: day training, puppy kindergartens, good manners classes or private lessons to name a few. But, the most critical is the one that really isn’t an option: understanding every moment you are with your dog is an opportunity to train. Now don’t misunderstand me here, I am not proposing acting like a drill sergeant every moment of the day. What I am saying is whenever you and your puppy are together, there is an opportunity to reinforce their good behavior thereby increasing the chances they will repeat the good behavior.
Good clear communication and information is what your puppy needs to learn to be successful in a human environment. Puppies will repeat behaviors they are rewarded for. Simply pay attention to your puppy and when they do something you like, reward them; food treat, attention and play are all rewarding to your puppy.
Often times people ignore the puppy when they are not getting into ‘trouble’ thereby missing the opportunity to reward good behavior, but, are quick to notice when the puppy is doing something wrong. Set your puppy up for success, acknowledge when they make good choices and practice managing their environment to help minimize the puppy’s opportunity to make a mistake or a bad choice.
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers and The Pet Professional Guide sites provide pet owners a database to search for dog trainers in their area. Interview potential trainers or ask to sit in and observe a class or two before committing to training, most trainers welcome the opportunity to have potential clients observe their classes.
