Basic Commands: The Building Blocks of Obedience
Teaching your puppy basic commands like “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come” is not only essential for their safety but also lays the groundwork for more advanced training down the road. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your new furry friend.
Start with “Sit.” Hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose and slowly move it up and over their head. As they follow the treat with their eyes, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground. As soon as they sit, say “Sit,” and reward them with the treat and plenty of praise. Repeat this several times a day, and before long, your puppy will be sitting on command.
“Stay” is next. Have your puppy sit, then open your palm in front of you and say, “Stay.” Take a small step back. If they stay put, reward them. If they move, calmly guide them back to the sitting position and try again. Patience is key here—puppies have short attention spans, so keep sessions brief and positive.
Finally, there’s “Come,” arguably the most important command for your puppy’s safety. Put your puppy on a leash and gently pull them toward you while saying, “Come.” When they reach you, reward them with treats and affection. Over time, practice this off-leash in a safe, enclosed area.
Biting and Chewing: Redirecting Those Sharp Little Teeth
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, which means biting and chewing are par for the course. While it might be cute at first, those sharp little teeth can do some serious damage if left unchecked.
When your puppy starts biting, it’s important to redirect their attention to an appropriate toy. If they bite your hand, say “Ouch!” in a high-pitched voice, then offer them a chew toy instead. Be consistent with this redirection, and they’ll learn what’s okay to chew on and what’s off-limits.
Teething can also cause your puppy to chew on everything in sight. Provide plenty of safe, durable chew toys to soothe their gums. Frozen toys or treats can be particularly comforting during this stage.
Leash Training: Walking Without the Tug-of-War
Walking your puppy on a leash without feeling like you’re being dragged behind a miniature sled dog is a skill that takes time to master. Leash training is all about teaching your puppy to walk politely by your side, rather than pulling ahead or lagging behind.
Start by letting your puppy get used to the leash indoors. Attach the leash to their collar and let them drag it around while supervised. Once they’re comfortable, hold the leash and encourage them to follow you around the house. Reward them for staying by your side with treats and praise.
When you’re ready to venture outside, choose a quiet area with minimal distractions. If your puppy starts to pull, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side. Reward them for walking nicely and resume your walk. It may take some time, but with consistency, your puppy will learn that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go.