So excited for the spring weather and the newness that comes along with it...trees budding, grass growing...and puppies being born! It is a great thing to add a puppy to your family. They are an addition of unconditional love, a wonderful way to bond with your kids and teach them responsibility too.
First things first...get that pup on a regular schedule for eating, sleeping and doing his business....and that is all you should focus on for the first couple of weeks. Find a nd use a key word, like "potty" or "outside" and use it EVERY time you go out to take care of business.....which is pretty much every time you go out with a pup that's 8 to 12 weeks old. MAke sure you take him out first thing in the morning and last thing at night...set your pup up for success! It's better to praise the good work he does than have to correct bad habits because you didn't play your part.
Next...start having regular, 10-15 minute training sessions. Use training treats to help reinforce when any desireable behavior is acheived! Lots of verbal praise and a good scratching of the ears is also helpful!
We offer a Puppy 101 session to interested clients. I'll come and help you establish a schedule and routine. Give you helpful tips and some basic training methods to get you off to a good start with your pup. If you are interested, give us a call, we're happy to help you out!
Whatever you do, just be sure to GET OUT THERE! HAVE FUN! Run, walk, play with your pup as often as you can....puppies have TONS of energy and need to burn that off to help them be well behaved. There's a reason we say, "A tired dog is a happy dog with happy owners!"
~ Happy tails and trails
Debbi and the Griffindales, Roy, Jack & Lola
