Bringing home a new puppy is like bringing home an adorable ball of boundless energy! Puppies are curious, mischievous, and eager to learn. Starting training early is crucial for several reasons:

1. Prevention of Behavioral Issues: Training from an early age helps prevent unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing on your favorite shoes, or jumping on guests like they've just seen their favorite celebrity.

2. Bonding Experience: Early training strengthens the bond between you and your puppy. Those little moments of success—when your pup finally understands "sit"—are pure gold.

3. Foundation for Lifelong Learning: Teaching basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" lays a solid foundation for more advanced training down the road.

4. Socialization Benefits: Proper early training, including socialization with other dogs and people, helps your pup grow up to be well-adjusted and less fearful. !

Here's a quick look at the training stages you'll be navigating with your puppy:

1. Socialization (8-16 Weeks):

Introduce your puppy to various sights, sounds, and experiences like meeting new people or going for a ride in the car. It's like giving them a crash course in the "big wide world."

2. Basic Commands (4-6 Months):

Start teaching essential commands like "sit," "stay," "come," and "down" to establish control and communication. Be patient; your pup is learning a whole new language!

3. Advanced Training (6 Months+):

Once your pup has mastered the basics, you can introduce more advanced commands like "heel," "leave it," and even some fun tricks like "high-five."

Training your dog in basic obedience is a rewarding journey, especially when they master commands that make life smoother for both of you. Here are six essential commands every dog should know and how to teach them step-by-step.

1. Sit: Teach your dog to sit on command

• Step 1: Stand in front of your dog with a treat in hand.
• Step 2: Hold the treat close to your dog's nose and slowly move it upwards over their head.
• Step 3: As your dog's head follows the treat up, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground.
• Step 4: Once their bottom touches the ground, immediately say "sit" and give them the treat.
• Step 5: Repeat this several times until your dog associates the word "sit" with the action.
• Step 6: Gradually phase out the treat, rewarding only with praise or occasional treats.

2. Stay: Keep your dog in place until released

• Step 1: Start with your dog in the "sit" position.
• Step 2: Hold your hand up like a stop sign in front of your dog's face and say "stay."
• Step 3: Take one step back while keeping your hand up.
• Step 4: If your dog stays in position, return to them, give a reward, and release with "okay."
• Step 5: Gradually increase the distance and duration, rewarding for longer stays.
• Step 6: Add distractions like toys or other people to make the command more challenging.

3. Come: A reliable recall for safety and fun

• Step 1: Put a long leash on your dog and start with them sitting a few feet away.
• Step 2: Enthusiastically say "come" while gently pulling the leash toward you.
• Step 3: Reward with treats and praise when your dog reaches you.
• Step 4: Gradually increase the distance and try calling them without the leash.
• Step 5: Practice in different environments to reinforce reliability.

4. Down: Help your dog relax and settle

• Step 1: Start with your dog in the "sit" position.
• Step 2: Hold a treat close to their nose and move your hand down to the ground between their paws.
• Step 3: As your dog follows the treat down, guide them into a lying-down position.
• Step 4: Once they're lying down, say "down" and reward them with a treat.
• Step 5: Gradually reduce the use of treats and reinforce the command with praise.

5. Leave It: Prevent them from picking up unwanted items

• Step 1: Hold a treat in each hand. Show one to your dog and close your fist around it.
• Step 2: Say "leave it" firmly and wait for your dog to stop sniffing or pawing at your fist.
• Step 3: When your dog ignores your closed fist and looks at you instead, reward them with the treat in your other hand.
• Step 4: Repeat several times, then move on to placing a treat on the ground and covering it with your hand.
• Step 5: Gradually expose the treat and practice the command until your dog can "leave it" reliably.

6. Heel: Walk nicely on a leash

• Step 1: Start with your dog standing beside you on a short leash.
• Step 2: Hold treats in your left hand at your dog's head level.
• Step 3: Start walking briskly, encouraging your dog to follow by giving treats frequently when they walk close to your left side.
• Step 4: If your dog pulls ahead, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side.
• Step 5: Gradually increase the distance between treats, rewarding your dog for walking close by.

Quick Tips for Mastering Each Command

• Sit: Use this command as the starting point for other commands like "stay" and "down." Consistency is key!
• Stay: Gradually increase the distance and duration. Be patient and build up the challenge slowly.
• Come: Make coming to you a positive experience by using an enthusiastic voice and lots of treats.
• Down: Some dogs find this position uncomfortable initially. Stay positive and don't force it.
• Leave It: Practice this command daily with different objects to build strong impulse control.
• Heel: If your dog pulls ahead, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side before continuing.

Clicker Training Basics

Clicker training is a fun and precise method that uses a small device that makes a clicking sound to mark the desired behavior.

How to Get Started:

1. Charge the Clicker:

• Click the device and immediately give your dog a treat.
• Repeat this process 15-20 times so that your dog associates the click sound with a reward.

2. Mark the Behavior:

• Ask your dog to perform a command they know, like "sit."
• As soon as they sit, click and give a treat.
• Repeat this step for other behaviors like "stay" and "come."

3. Practice Timing and Consistency:

• Click only when your dog performs the desired behavior.
• Keep training sessions short and sweet—5-10 minutes each.

Lure-Reward Method

The lure-reward method involves using a treat to guide your dog into the desired position, rewarding them once they succeed.

Steps to Train Your Dog:

1. Sit Command:

• Hold a treat close to your dog's nose.
• Move it up and back over their head, prompting them to sit.
• As soon as they sit, give the treat and say "sit."

2. Down Command:

• Start with your dog in the "sit" position.
• Hold a treat close to their nose and move it down between their paws, guiding them to lie down.
• Once they're lying down, give the treat and say "down."

3. Heel Command:

• Hold treats in your left hand at your dog's head level.
• Walk briskly, rewarding your dog for walking close to your left side.
• If they pull ahead, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side.

Capturing and Shaping Behaviors

Capturing and shaping are powerful techniques for encouraging natural behaviors.

Capturing:

• Observe Your Dog: Watch for desirable behaviors like sitting quietly or lying down.
• Mark and Reward: As soon as your dog performs the behavior, mark it with a clicker or a word like "yes" and give a treat.
• Repeat and Name: Repeat this process until your dog consistently performs the behavior, then add a command like "quiet."

Shaping:

• Break Down Behaviors: Split complex behaviors into smaller steps. For example, teaching "spin" starts with rewarding your dog for turning their head.
• Mark Progress: Mark and reward each small step toward the final behavior.
• Refine Over Time: Gradually require more accurate performances before rewarding.

Incorporating Play and Rewards

Training should always be a fun, bonding experience for you and your dog.

Tips for Adding Fun to Training:

1. Use Play as a Reward:

• After a successful training session, reward your dog with a game of fetch or tug-of-war.
• Incorporate training commands like "drop it" during play.

2. Mix Treats and Toys:

• Combine different rewards to keep your dog excited and motivated.
• Some dogs respond better to toys than treats, so experiment with different motivators.

3. Keep Sessions Short and Positive:

• Aim for 5-10 minute sessions multiple times a day.
• Always end on a high note, even if it's just a successful "sit."

What is Positive Reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement is a dog training method that rewards desirable behavior, increasing the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. Imagine it like this: Your dog does something right, you reward them with a treat or praise, and voila! They want to do it again.

Why It Works Best for New Owners

Positive reinforcement is the go-to technique for new owners for several reasons:

1. Builds Trust: Rewarding your dog's good behavior creates a bond of trust between you and your pup, making training more enjoyable for both parties.

2. Encourages Consistency: Since dogs love rewards, they're more likely to repeat desired behaviors consistently.

3. Reduces Fear and Anxiety: Unlike punishment-based training, positive reinforcement minimizes the risk of your dog becoming fearful or anxious.

4. Boosts Confidence: Successful training sessions with positive outcomes boost your dog's confidence and willingness to learn.

Types of Rewards: Treats, Praise, Toys Not all rewards are created equal. Understanding what motivates your dog can make training even more effective.

1. Treats: High-Value Treats: Use for difficult tasks or new commands. Think of cheese or freeze-dried liver. Low-Value Treats: Perfect for simple commands like "sit" or "down." Use dry biscuits or kibble.

2. Praise: Dogs love verbal praise like "good boy!" or "well done!" Combine it with gentle petting for extra motivation.

3. Toys: Fetch Toys: Reward your dog with a fun game of fetch after a successful training session. Tug Toys: Play a game of tug-of-war to reinforce commands like "drop it."

4. Playtime: Incorporate a quick play session as a reward, especially if your dog enjoys interactive games.

Avoiding Punishment-Based Training

While positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding good behavior, punishment-based training uses aversive techniques like scolding or physical corrections. Here's why it's best to avoid punishment:

1. Creates Fear: Your dog may start associating you with negative experiences, leading to anxiety or fear-based aggression.

2. Reduces Learning: Fear inhibits learning, making it harder for your dog to pick up new commands.

3. Strains Relationship: Punishment-based training can damage the trust and bond between you and your dog.

Tips for Positive Reinforcement Success

1. Timing is Key: Reward your dog immediately after the desired behavior to create a strong association.

2. Consistency Matters: Use the same commands, gestures, and rewards each time to avoid confusing your dog.

3. Stay Patient: Training takes time, so celebrate small victories and stay positive!

Potty Training Tips

Recognizing the Signs:

• Sniffing and Circling: If your puppy is sniffing the floor and walking in circles, it's a clear sign they need to go.
• Whining at the Door: Puppies often whine or scratch at the door when they need to relieve themselves.
• Sudden Restlessness: A calm puppy suddenly becoming restless could indicate it's time for a bathroom break.

Establishing a Routine:

• Regular Bathroom Breaks: Take your puppy outside every 2-3 hours and after meals, playtime, or naps.
• Use a Command: Pick a command like "go potty" and use it consistently during each bathroom break.
• Reward Immediately: Praise and treat your puppy right after they finish their business outside to reinforce the behavior.

Handling Accidents:

• Stay Calm: If your puppy has an accident indoors, avoid scolding them. Instead, interrupt them gently with a clap and take them outside.
• Clean Thoroughly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any odor, preventing your puppy from soiling the same spot again.

Crate Training Fundamentals

Choosing the Right Crate:

• Size Matters: The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Material Options:

     - Plastic Crates: Lightweight and ideal for travel.

      -Wire Crates: Provide better airflow and visibility.

Steps to Crate Train Your Puppy:

1. Introduce the Crate:

• Place the crate in a quiet, accessible spot.
• Make it cozy with a soft blanket and some toys.
• Let your puppy explore it at their own pace.

2. Feed Meals in the Crate:

• Start feeding your puppy inside the crate to create positive associations.
• Gradually close the door while they eat and open it once they're done.

3. Short Crate Sessions:

• Encourage your puppy to enter the crate by tossing treats inside.
• Close the door for 5-10 minutes while staying nearby, then gradually increase the time.
• Return to let your puppy out once they are calm.

4. Increase Crate Time:

• Practice leaving the room for short periods while your puppy is in the crate.
• Slowly extend the time until your puppy can stay in the crate for 30 minutes or longer.

Using Crates for Safe Space and Travel

Safe Space:

• Quiet Retreat: Crates provide a safe and quiet retreat for puppies when they feel overwhelmed.
• Preventing Mischief: Crates can prevent puppies from chewing on furniture or getting into trouble when unsupervised.

Travel:

• Car Rides: Crates are perfect for keeping your puppy safe and secure during car rides.
• Air Travel: Many airlines require crates for in-cabin travel, so crate training can help reduce travel anxiety.

Sample Training Schedule for Puppies

Morning:

• Training Session (5-10 minutes):

---Sit and Stay: Practice these commands before breakfast.

• ---Potty Break: Take your puppy outside and use the potty command consistently.
• ---Short Walk: A 10-minute walk helps your puppy burn some energy before training.

Afternoon:

• Socialization/Outdoor Playtime (30 minutes):
• ---Visit a local dog park, or arrange a playdate with other puppies for socialization.
• ---Work on commands like "come" and "leave it" in a more distracting environment.

Evening:

• Training Session (5-10 minutes):
• ---Down and Heel: Practice these commands before dinner.
• ---Potty Break: Take your puppy outside for another bathroom break.

Night:

• Calm Training (5 minutes):
• ---Practice "sit," "stay," or "down" to help your puppy settle down for the night.
• ---Potty Break: A final bathroom break before bedtime.

Adjusting the Schedule for Different Breeds and Energy Levels

High-Energy Breeds:

• More Frequent Sessions: High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Jack Russell Terriers may benefit from more frequent training sessions.
• Extra Playtime: Incorporate additional playtime to help them burn off extra energy.

Low-Energy Breeds:

• Shorter Sessions: Breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds might need shorter training sessions to avoid fatigue.
• Gentle Exercise: Opt for shorter walks and gentler playtime.

Training Tips for Success

1. Stay Consistent: Use the same commands and gestures during each training session to avoid confusing your puppy.

2. Reward Immediately: Praise or reward your puppy right after they perform the desired behavior.

3. Keep Sessions Short and Fun: Aim for 5-10 minute sessions to maintain your puppy's attention and enthusiasm.

4. Monitor Your Puppy's Mood: If your puppy seems tired or frustrated, give them a break and resume training later.

5. Celebrate Small Wins: Every successful "sit" or "stay" deserves a celebration!

Training commands are essential for addressing common behavioral issues and promoting good behavior. Here's how to tackle some of the most frequent challenges.

Addressing Common Behavioral Issues

1. Barking: How to Manage Excessive Barking

Causes of Excessive Barking:

• Alert Barking: Barking to warn you of strangers or unusual activity.
• Attention-Seeking: Barking to get attention or play.
• Boredom: Dogs left alone for extended periods may bark out of boredom.

How to Manage It:

Step 1: Identify the cause of your dog's barking and address any underlying issues like boredom or lack of exercise.

Step 2: Teach the "quiet" command:

• When your dog starts barking, say "quiet" calmly.
• Wait until they stop barking, then immediately reward them with a treat and praise
• If your dog continues barking, ignore them until they stop and then reward.

2. Chewing: Preventing Unwanted Chewing

Causes of Chewing:

• Teething: Puppies often chew to relieve discomfort during teething.
• Curiosity: Dogs explore their environment by chewing on various objects.

How to Prevent Unwanted Chewing:

Step 1: Puppy-proof your home by keeping shoes, cords, and other items out of reach.

Step 2: Provide appropriate chew toys and praise your puppy when they use them.

Step 3: Use the "leave it" command:

• When your dog is chewing something they shouldn't, say "leave it."
• Gently remove the object and replace it with a chew toy.
• Praise your dog for chewing on the toy instead.

3. Jumping: Teaching Polite Greetings

Causes of Jumping:

• Excitement: Dogs jump to greet people when they're excited.
• Attention-Seeking: Jumping often results in attention, even if it's negative.

How to Teach Polite Greetings:

Step 1: Ignore your dog when they jump up by turning your back and crossing your arms.

Step 2: Wait until your dog has all four paws on the ground, then turn around and reward them with praise and a treat.

Step 3: Practice the "sit" command:

• Before greeting your dog, ask them to sit.
• Reward them only if they remain sitting.

4. Pulling on Leash: Training to Walk Calmly

Causes of Pulling on Leash:

• Excitement: Dogs may pull on the leash to get to something exciting like another dog or a squirrel.

How to Train Walking Calmly:

Step 1: Use a short leash and hold treats in your left hand at your dog's head level.

Step 2: Start walking briskly and reward your dog for walking close by your left side.

Step 3: If your dog pulls ahead, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side.

Step 4: Gradually increase the distance between treats as your dog walks calmly.

Common Mistakes New Owners Make in Obedience Training

1. Inconsistency:

• Problem: Using different commands or gestures for the same behavior confuses your dog.
• Solution A: Pick a consistent command for each behavior (e.g., "sit" for sitting).
• Solution B: Ensure all family members use the same commands and gestures.

2. Lack of Patience:

• Problem: Expecting your dog to learn new commands instantly can lead to frustration.
• Solution A: Keep training sessions short and focused (5-10 minutes each).
• Solution B: Celebrate small victories and stay positive even if progress is slow.

3. Using Punishment:

• Problem: Punishing your dog for mistakes creates fear and damages your relationship.
• Solution A: Focus on positive reinforcement by rewarding good behavior with treats or praise.
• Solution B: Ignore unwanted behavior or redirect your dog to more appropriate actions.

How to Avoid These Pitfalls

1. Create a Training Plan:

• Outline a weekly training schedule and stick to it.
• Include commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" in each session.

2. Use High-Value Rewards:

• Offer treats, praise, or toys that your dog truly loves.
• Reserve high-value rewards for new or challenging commands.

3. Practice Patience and Persistence:

• Be patient with your dog and recognize that every pup learns at their own pace.
• Persist with training, even if progress seems slow.

4. Seek Help When Needed:

• If you're struggling with specific behaviors, consult a professional trainer.
• Join local training classes for additional guidance and socialization opportunities.
• Purchase Penny DiLoreto books on Amazon
  

Training Tools for Beginners

1. Clicker:

• Purpose: A clicker helps mark desired behaviors quickly and consistently.
• How to Use It: Charge the clicker by clicking and immediately giving your dog a treat 15-20 times. Click and reward as soon as your dog performs a desired behavior.

2. Treat Pouch:

• Purpose: Keeps treats handy during training sessions, making rewards quick and efficient.
• How to Use It: Fill the pouch with high-value treats your dog loves. Wear it around your waist to ensure treats are always within reach.

3. Long Training Leash:

• Purpose: A long training leash (15-30 feet) allows your dog to roam while still being under control.
• How to Use It: Practice recall commands like "come" in an open space. Use it to reinforce "stay" and "leave it" from a distance.

Setting Up a Home Training Area

1. Choose a Quiet Space:

• Pick an area in your backyard or living room that's free of distractions.
• Ensure there's enough room for your dog to move comfortably.

2. Add Training Props:

• Cones: Create a DIY obstacle course using colorful cones.
• Ramps: Use low ramps or planks to practice balance and agility.
• Hurdles: Place broomsticks or PVC pipes between two chairs for simple hurdles.

3. Designate a Rest Area:

• Place your dog's bed or crate in the training area for breaks.
• Keep water and treats nearby to reward your dog during sessions.

Incorporating Training into Daily Routines

1. Meal Time Training:

• Practice "sit," "stay," and "down" commands before feeding your dog.
• Use part of their meal as rewards during training.

2. Walk Training:

• Practice "heel" and "leave it" commands during daily walks.
• Reward your dog for walking calmly by your side.

3. Playtime Training:

• Incorporate commands like "drop it" and "come" during games of fetch or tug-of-war.
• Use toys as rewards for good behavior.

A: The six essential commands every dog should know include:

1. Sit: Teaching your dog to sit on command is foundational for other commands.

2.Stay: Helps keep your dog in place until released.

3. Come: A reliable recall command for safety.

4. Down: Helps your dog relax and settle.

5. Leave It: Prevents your dog from picking up unwanted items.

6. Heel: Walks become easier when your dog walks calmly on a leash.

Q2: How do I start training my dog if I'm a beginner?

A: If you're new to dog training, here's a simple plan to follow:

1. Start with Basic Commands: Begin with "sit," "stay," and "come," using positive reinforcement like treats and praise.

2. Keep Sessions Short and Positive: Aim for 5-10 minute training sessions and always end on a positive note.

3. Use a Clicker: Clicker training can help mark desired behaviors quickly and consistently.

4.Practice Patience: Every dog learns at their own pace, so stay patient and celebrate small victories.

Q3: How long does it take to train a dog in basic obedience?

A: The time it takes to train a dog in basic obedience depends on factors like age, breed, and prior training. Generally:

• Puppies: Can learn basic commands in 6-8 weeks with consistent training.
• Adult Dogs: May require 8-12 weeks due to existing habits and behavior.
• Rescue Dogs: May need additional time to overcome past traumas.

Q4: Which dog breeds are easiest to train for new owners?

A: Some breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability:

1. Labrador Retriever: Friendly, eager to please, and highly trainable.

2. Golden Retriever: Intelligent, gentle, and responsive to training.

3.Border Collie: Extremely smart and quick to learn new commands.

4. Poodle: Adaptable, intelligent, and responds well to positive reinforcement.

5. German Shepherd: Loyal, protective, and excels in obedience training.

Q5: What is positive reinforcement in dog training?

A: Positive reinforcement is a training method that rewards desired behavior to encourage repetition. Key points:

• Rewards: Treats, praise, or toys.
• Timing: Immediate reward after the behavior to create a strong association.
• Avoid Punishment: Focus on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing mistakes.

Q6: How can I keep my dog focused during training sessions?

A: Keeping your dog focused during training can be challenging but achievable:

1.Use High-Value Treats: Offer treats your dog loves, like cheese or freeze-dried liver.

2. Keep Sessions Short: Aim for 5-10 minutes to maintain their attention.

3. Practice in a Quiet Space: Reduce distractions by training in a calm environment.

4. Incorporate Play Breaks: Give your dog play breaks to release energy between commands.

Q7: Is crate training necessary for basic obedience?

A: While not required, crate training offers several benefits:

1. Safe Space: Crates provide a quiet retreat for your dog when they're overwhelmed.

2. Housebreaking Aid: Helps with potty training by encouraging your dog to hold their bladder.

3. Preventing Mischief: Keeps your dog out of trouble when unsupervised.

Q8: How often should I train my dog in basic commands?

A: Consistency is crucial for learning:

• Daily Sessions: Aim for 5-10 minutes of training, 2-3 times a day.
• Reinforce Commands: Use commands like "sit" and "stay" during daily routines like mealtime.

Q9: Can I train my dog at home, or do I need a professional trainer?

A: Most basic commands can be taught at home with patience and consistency:

• Home Training: Ideal for simple commands like "sit," "stay," and "come."
• Professional Trainer: Consider a professional if your dog exhibits behavioral issues or you're struggling with certain commands.

Q10: What are the common mistakes new owners make in dog obedience training?

A: Some common mistakes include:

1. Inconsistency: Using different commands or gestures confuses your dog.

2. Lack of Patience: Expecting quick results can lead to frustration.

3. Using Punishment: Punishment creates fear and reduces learning.

Q11: When should I start training my puppy in basic obedience?

A: Start training your puppy as soon as they arrive home, around 8 weeks of age:

• Early Socialization: Introduce them to different environments, people, and animals.
• Basic Commands: Start with simple commands like "sit" and "come."

Q12: How can I prevent my dog from developing bad habits during training?

A: Preventing bad habits requires proactive training:

1. Provide Mental Stimulation: Bored dogs are more likely to develop destructive behaviors.

2. Use Consistent Commands: Avoid confusing your dog with inconsistent commands.

3. Ignore Unwanted Behavior: Don't reward attention-seeking behaviors like barking or jumping.

Q13: What training tools are best for beginners learning basic obedience?

A: Here are some beginner-friendly tools:

1. Clicker: Marks desired behavior quickly.

2. Treat Pouch: Keeps treats handy for efficient rewards.

3. Long Training Leash: Ideal for recall and "stay" commands.

Q14: Is it too late to train my older dog in basic obedience?

A: No, it's never too late to train an older dog:

• Patience is Key: Older dogs may take longer to learn new commands.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training works well with senior dogs.

Q15: How can I teach my dog basic obedience without using treats?

A: While treats are effective, there are other ways to reward your dog:

1. Praise: Verbal praise like "good boy!" or "well done!"

2. Toys: Play a game of fetch or tug-of-war as a reward.

3. Physical Affection: Gentle petting or belly rubs can be just as rewarding.