Puppy Training with Ease by Dr Elaine Cebuliak

Congratulations on welcoming a new puppy into your home! This article will provide you with valuable information on various aspects of puppy training, including bathroom training, crate introduction games, teaching basic commands, early exploration, socialisation, and more.

Bathroom Training

Bathroom training is one of the first and most important lessons for your puppy. Consistency and patience are key:

1. Establish a Routine: Take your puppy outside to the designated potty area at regular intervals, such as after eating, drinking, or waking up in the morning.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with praise and treats immediately after they eliminate outside. This helps them associate going outside with positive experiences.
3. Accidents Happen: Be prepared for accidents indoors, especially during the early stages. Clean accidents promptly and use an enzymatic cleaner to remove odours.

Crate Introduction Games

Introducing your puppy to their crate can make it a safe and comfortable space:

1. Slow and Positive: Begin by leaving the crate door open and allowing your puppy to explore it at their own pace. Leave treats and toys inside to encourage them to go in willingly.
2. Short Periods: Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy spends in the crate with the door closed, starting with short intervals, and gradually extending them.
3. Positive Associations: Use treats and praise when your puppy enters the crate voluntarily. Never use the crate for punishment.

Teaching Commands

Teaching basic commands is essential for your puppy’s obedience and safety:

1. Teaching ‘Come’: Start indoors in a quiet environment. Use a cheerful tone and their name followed by “come.” Reward with treats and praise when they come to you.
2. Teaching ‘Sit’: Hold a treat above your puppy’s head, and slowly move it back over their head. As their head goes up to follow the treat, their bottom will naturally lower into a sitting position.
3. Teaching Offered Check-Ins: Encourage your puppy to check in with you by rewarding them for spontaneously coming to you and making eye contact.

Early Exploration

Puppies are curious by nature, so provide them with safe opportunities to explore their environment:

1. Supervised Exploration: Keep a close eye on your puppy during exploratory moments to ensure their safety and prevent them from chewing on dangerous objects.
2. Puppy-Proofing: Puppy-proof your home by removing hazards and keeping small objects out of their reach.

Socialisation and Meeting New People

Socialisation is crucial for your puppy’s development:

1. Meet New People: Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, including adults, children, and different ethnicities, to ensure they become well-rounded and confident.
2. Positive Experiences: Make these encounters positive by providing treats and praise during interactions.

Introducing New Toys

Toys are a great way to engage and entertain your puppy:

1. Variety of Toys: Offer a variety of toys, including chew toys, puzzle toys, and interactive toys, to keep your puppy mentally stimulated.
2. Supervision: Always supervise playtime to ensure your puppy doesn’t ingest or destroy toys.

Remember, patience and consistency are key when training your puppy. Seek guidance from a professional trainer if needed and enjoy the journey of watching your puppy grow into a well-behaved and happy companion. Good luck!

To book a session with Dr Elaine Cebuliak from Animal Wellness in Brisbane please go to: www.animalwellness.com.au