Introduction
Welcoming a furry friend into your home is undoubtedly a joyous occasion. However, the bliss can turn into a nightmare if your puppy refuses to heed your commands. Fear not! We've curated a foolproof guide to transform your disobedient pup into an obedient companion.
Increasing Motivation for Your Puppy
The key to successful training lies in motivation, and what better motivator than food? Teach your puppy to associate specific words with positive experiences by using high-quality treats. Harness the power of treats as lures to capture your puppy's attention and make training an enjoyable experience.
Response to Name Exercise
Ensure your puppy understands the value of its name. Begin by rewarding spontaneous attention with treats or praise. Gradually introduce the name into the equation, creating an association between responding to the name and positive reinforcement. This sets the foundation for a responsive and attentive pup.
Training Technique:
- Call and Reward: Call your puppy by name while holding a treat.
- Luring Attention: Use the treat to grab your puppy's attention.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward with a treat when your puppy responds.
- Increasing Distance: Gradually call from a distance, rewarding for coming.
Teaching the "Sit" Command
Once your pup recognizes its name, move on to the essential "Sit" command. Employ high-value treats as lures to guide your puppy into a seated position. Progress from luring to verbal commands, reinforcing the behavior with treats and gradually transitioning to praise.
Training Technique:
- Treat Luring: Use a treat to guide your puppy into a sitting position.
- Verbal Command: Introduce the "Sit" command while offering a treat.
- Delaying Reward: Wait a few seconds before rewarding to reinforce the sitting position.
- Transition to Praise: Gradually replace treats with verbal praise.
Teaching the "Touch" Command
The "Touch" command serves as a powerful tool to redirect your puppy's attention. Encourage nose-to-hand contact, marking the action with a chosen word and rewarding with high-value treats. With consistent practice, integrate the "Touch" command, reinforcing it with positive experiences.
Training Technique:
- Nose-to-Hand Contact: Encourage your puppy to touch its nose to your hand.
- Marker Word: Introduce a marker word like "Good Job!" when the puppy touches your hand.
- Command Integration: Add the "Touch" command, rewarding immediate compliance.
- Varied Rewards: Gradually replace treats with verbal praise or toys.
Taking Him Outside for Exercise
A hyperactive puppy can be challenging to train. Prioritize daily playtime and engage in energy-draining activities like "Tug of War" and "Flirt Pole." Mental stimulation is equally crucial, introducing brain-engaging games and puzzles to tire out your furry companion.
Practice Makes Perfect
Consistency is key. Practice these techniques in low-distraction environments initially, gradually progressing to more challenging settings like a dog park.
In conclusion, master the art of puppy obedience by leveraging motivation, reinforcing commands, and providing adequate exercise. Your well-behaved and attentive pup awaits!
