Puppy Training: Everything you need to know to survive the First WeekLife will have several other priorities, most of them more exciting than bringing home your new puppy. As soon as he arrives, every member of the family will want to hug him, hold him as soon and for as long as possible during those initial days. This excitement can be bit taxing for the tiny thing and can wear him out soon. This will be compounded further, if there is lack of structure and boundaries. The little canine could even feel insecure. It is important therefore, to prepare for your puppy’s homecoming by pre-deciding the routine and house rules. Once that is done, every member of the household ought to stick to it too, as you begin the process of puppy training.
The Importance of Routine
When you bring that tiny puppy home, we need remember, that he has lived his short space of time after birth, in the secure company of his mother, and other littermates. All too suddenly, he is estranged from his familiar surroundings to go it alone in your house. This little being should feel safe and secure again – so what can aid that. Plenty of love and care is essential to make him feel at home again. If you a start a routine that your puppies will respond very well.
Consistency though is the key here, whether it is his meals, housebreaking or playtime. Before you actually bring in the new puppy, decide which member of your family is assigned the responsibility of feeding him, and make sure that the individual is available to maintain a regular feeding schedule for your puppy. It would be ideal if you can take the advice of a vet on the best ways to feed the puppy and the frequency at which to do that. The initial phase of your puppy training will go through smoothly if your pet has a routine that he can rely on.
The Importance of Rules
Ideally, you would also need to set some house rules for training the puppy before introducing the puppy to the family. For example, if you have decided that your puppy will use his crate for sleeping; make sure that he sleeps in the crate only. Never let him sleep in the bed with you or your children, Never, not even once, even if he grumbles all through the first night at home with you. Only alternatively, you can make a co-sleeping arrangement to be part of your regular routine. Like young children, dogs too need firm boundaries to live within, to feel secure and consistent. By sticking to the rules, your puppy will soon learn what he should deliver, and generally will be glad to oblige. An important component of useful puppy training is consistency.
Once you establish firm house rules complimented by a routine that each member can stick to, bringing in your new puppy will be a welcome addition which the whole family can enjoy for long time to come.
Enjoy your new addition and happy puppy training. |