10 tips for training a new dog or puppy

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No Ruff Days

One of the biggest challenges in bringing home a puppy or rescue dog is training them properly so they don’t mess with your furniture, carpets, and other belongings. Training a dog can be frustrating, and recruit a trainer can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars; follow these steps instead to save time and money and you can bond and get to know your new best furry friend in the process – how awesome!

Related: Plants Poisonous to Cats and Dogs

Little cute maltipoo puppy

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Start them young

We’ve all heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” In fact, puppies are more receptive to learning at a young age, so it’s important to start training as soon as you get them home. This will help them adapt to their surroundings and learn early on where they are supposed to eat, potty, and have fun.

Related: Dogs versus cats – who makes the best pet?

Dog receiving a cookie.  Adult mixed Labrador dog eating cookies.  Gray background.  Close-up portrait of a cute brown dog.

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Use positive reinforcement

Reward your puppy or new dog with treats, praise and affection when he behaves well, such as going to the bathroom in the right place or sitting down when you tell him to. Avoid punishing your puppy, as this can cause fear and aggression, making it more difficult to train them in the long term.

Latin American man training a dog outdoors, giving it a high-five

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Use basic commands

Teach your puppy basic commands such as “sit”, “stay” and “come” to help him learn to follow directions and behave appropriately when guests are around. By keeping commands short, your dog will learn to recognize the sound of certain words and their meanings.

Side view of a man training a Dalmatian dog in the grass on a meadow.

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To be coherent

Use the same commands for specific behaviors — like rolling your hand into a fist to signal “sit” or waving a hand to show them how to “roll over” — and be consistent with these each time to help a pup understand what which is expected. .

cute little white dog lying on the floor and looking at the camera.  9 a.m. wake up call.  Wake up and morning concept.  Pets indoors

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Set limits

It’s important to establish rules and boundaries for your puppy or new dog from the start. This will help them understand what behavior is acceptable and what is not. Establishing healthy boundaries can include placing them in a designated “time out” area, such as a playpen or crate when they are misbehaving, or using a stern voice to help them discern when they have do something wrong.

Boston Terrier puppy inside a cage or crate with the door open.  She is lying down chewing a teething aid chew.  She wears a harness.

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Consider crate training

While a crate can be a useful tool for potty training and preventing accidents in the home, be sure to properly introduce a puppy to the crate and never leave them inside for long periods of time. periods, as it may harm their mental or physical health. According to PetCubeadult dogs should not be crated for more than six to eight hours, and puppies 17 weeks and older should be left in a crate for a maximum of four to five hours at a time.

Bichon Frize and Apricot Poodle playing in the park, dogs concept.

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Socialization is key

Expose your puppy to a variety of people, places, and experiences to help him adapt and build confidence. Studies show that socializing a dog at an early age – after they’ve had all their shots – results in less anxious, healthier and happier dogs. It’s also important to allow your dog to meet and socialize with other dogs so he doesn’t bark at every passing animal. (Take it from a barking dog owner.)

Jack Russell Terrier in harness walking on loose leash

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Go for a walk

Regular exercise is important for physical and mental well-being. Take a pup for walks, runs, and play sessions to help him burn energy, breathe fresh air, and stimulate his mind. It’s important to take your dog for a walk at least once a day to help him learn to relieve himself outside. walks also help enrich the senses of dogs as they sniff around and see new sites.

A beautiful young woman on a walk with her dog.  It's game time, if you're a good boy you'll get a treat.  A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than it loves itself.

Ziga Plahutar/istockphoto

Train in short sessions

Puppies have short attention spans and experts recommend keeping training sessions short and sweet. To aim 5 to 10 minute sessions several times a day to keep animals focused. Be sure to reward them with their favorite treats (and many pets) when they respond correctly to commands.

Dog trainer with Belgian Malinois sitting in front of her looking at her and listening attentively.

Gajus/istockphoto

Ask for help if needed

If you’re having trouble training a puppy or aren’t sure how to proceed, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Some dogs have behavioral issues that will make training more difficult. Watch especially if your dog shows signs such as aggression or excessive barking.

Meet the best boy in the house

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