Importance of Puppy Training

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Tuff from Chris K. CA

A lot of people get puppies because they are adorable! Ok that might be only part of the reason, but when you all get puppies do you take the requirements for your puppies needs into consideration? And what about puppy classes? Sure it is not required but I see a lot of people who avoid taking their dog to any form of puppy class. Even if it is just a puppy playdate! Maybe they dont think there are classes for puppies available? Maybe they dont like the extra cost it takes for proper training? Maybe they dont have time? (that last one is a horrible excuse if you own a puppy by the way). Whatever the reason truly is I would like to share my thoughts about the importance of puppy training and why the puppy age is the prime time for starting your dog down the right path in life!

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Maple from Pawfessor Gage
Dog Training CA

Sarah B. TX

When a puppy reaches 8 weeks old it will be allowed in most puppy training classes. That is the same time frame that puppies are allowed to go to their forever homes!
??Pro tip: The longer the puppy stays with his mom and littermates the more of a chance he will have to learn proper socialization skills and that is why it is ideal to wait until about 7-8 weeks before bringing your new fur friend home.

Yes, getting a puppy can be expensive in itself, there is the cost of purchasing the puppy whether it be from a shelter or a breeder, plus all the new food and vet bills in your puppys life! These, of course, should all just be the extra costs you should consider before getting a new dog! 

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Taylor & Brea M. FL 

Brianna P. WA

So what is spending a hundred (or however much your local trainer charges) for a puppy course and is it worth it? And to that I say yes, it is absolutely worth it. Puppy courses usually consist of the pure basics of training, nothing too overwhelming for your pup. During this course there are a lot of confidence building lessons and socialization opportunities for your pup. A puppy with confidence will grow into a dog that does not live in fear. When you have a fearful dog they can be very reactive and usually show the most signs of aggression as adults.
??And, when dogs are aggressive where do they end up? Well, usually the shelter and, worst case scenario, euthanized. That is why building your dogs confidence and training him as a puppy is so important! When you work with your puppy from the beginning of their life (well, 8 weeks and up) they have the foundation to be a great confident dog! Socialization also falls into this category because when a dog is properly socialized they learn how to accept and act around other dogs and, most importantly, people. A well socialized dog does not live in fear and, as a plus, it makes it much, much easier if you enjoy taking your dog places with you!??????????

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Mike C. TX

Starting basic training as a puppy also allows your pup to be less likely to develop problem behaviors as a dog. There are a lot of bad habits we get into letting our dogs doing without even thinking about them being "bad things" or potentially creating problem behaviors! Things such as, play slapping with your pup which can result in thinking it is ok to bite, barking to go on walks or to get the things your dog wants, jumping for attention whenever people enter your house and more! Sure when puppies are jumping, nipping or barking it can seem quite cute or funny, however, it wouldnt be so adorable or funny when that puppy turns into a full grown mastiff that is jumping, barking and nipping! We have to remember that the puppy days shape our dogs for who they will be when they are adults. Of course there are also the smaller breeds but I can assure you that it doesnt make it any less annoying!

Vera Ann from
Jamie M. WA

Lets Talk about shelter dogs for a little bit. When dogs have problem behaviors that *seem* uncontrollable a lot of people will simply give up on their dog and turn them into the shelter. I have worked with many different dogs at a few different shelters and in the processing papers, that also give some characteristics of who the dog is and can usually be found on their kennel door, it includes why they ended up in the shelter in the first place. It breaks my heart when I see reasons like "too noisy" or "too rowdy", especially when I know all of these things couldve been prevented with proper training! The dogs can also be modified by a trainer but why not prevent it while they are young.

Ellie from Liz H. in CA

One thing you will almost never see is the reason "aggressive" on their kennel door. Most people that turn their dog into the shelter because their dog has aggressive tendencies do not mention this for fear of having their dog automatically euthanized but it is actually a very important thing for shelters to know. If they are unaware that this is a problem then they might end up finding out one day when the dog decides to bite some volunteer who (most of the time) has no idea what theyre doing mostly when it comes to being able to read a dogs body posture for warning signs that he is uncomfortable and may bite. Those are the types of situations where the dog may get euthanized and that is why it is important to let the shelter know about the dogs aggression. I am getting off track a little here, however, I am going to say that there are plenty of trainers out there who actually work with dogs that have aggression issues and they can help shape the dog to not be so reactive. So if you know anyone who is dealing with these issues tell them to get into touch with their local trainer!
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Collette M. WA

          I had to add that because most dogs and the reasons they end up in the shelter can be completely prevented! Most aggression springs from the lack of socialization and desensitization as a puppy. Ok, well there are also abusive owners and I will say that hitting a puppy or dog is completely unacceptable no matter what the situation so if you are ever frustrated just walk away. and maybe think about hiring a trainer.
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Terry E. CA

     
     A not as effective but "ok" alternative, if you are not in the "budget" for a trainer, ok well  first I will recommend seeing the prices in your area then if you still feel it is too much you should set up or find a puppy play group so your pup has the chance to socialize with other dogs. Make sure all dogs there have received their shots and pass their bill of health so your dog doesnt have the risk of catching parvo. To better your dogs socialization skills make sure you are taking your dogs around parks or playgrounds with people so they get use to seeing other humans and kids! If you plan on having kids at some point during the lifespan of your dog I highly recommend taking your new puppy around where kids play so they can get use to seeing them run around or even being pet by those little humans, it will help prevent your pup from being afraid of them as a full grown dog.
?????????      In essence, when you get a puppy or if you already have one definitely take the time to look into puppy classes for him! I know, I know, there are basic obedience courses when your dog reaches around 6 months that you may or may not take him to anyways but why wait. It can be very beneficial for you and your whole family if you start getting the real tools and information you need to build a confident and happy dog! If you do this for your pup you will help him from acquiring problem behaviors as an adult that could potentially put you at a loss of how to deal with your dog. Remember that dog training is always an option, so find a positive reinforcement trainer in your area if you feel you need a little help.

Thank you to everyone who sent me pictures for this blog! Any pictures that werent used will be saved for the next time I come up with something where they will come in handy! And if you want your dog featured in one of my blogs feel free to send me a picture by email or on my facebook!????????

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