Giving your dog a place to call their own is very important. Pretend as if you didn't have your own room in the house, you may get overwhelmed after a little bit because you can never get away to a safe place. By crate training or I call it a condo, you're dog will be happier having a safe place to call their own.
Below are a few of my recommendations to start dog training. If you want the complete list, press I'm In!!
I know we all know we have the best intentions in mind but how does your dog know this? Leaving your litter mates at 8 weeks to go to another home, where you know nobody, sounds scary to me. That's why we need to be as kind and clear as possible.
Based on Susan Garrett's Crate Training Program & Book Ruff Love
Growing up our dogs hated their crates. They would go in there after we caught and yelled at them but was it a place they would just go hang out in? Nope, their objective was clear, avoid the crate. Now, my family's dogs have a room they get to go hang out in with blankets, bones, and beds and they love it. They go and hang out and have dog conversations often, so what is the difference?
I can hear you, obviously one is a room and one is a metal box. Okay, if you're thinking like that I probably can't change your mind, so don't keep reading because this won't help you. Now, everyone else, if you notice that one space was intentionally created and the other was accidentally made, then lets talk more.
What I mean is one space had blankets, bones, and was made a place where fun things happened. The other space was probably taught hastily and only used when leaving the house, for a time out, or being left alone at the vet or groomer's. What this all means to you is by being intentional and having a different result on your mind. Rather than a space to keep them trapped, why not create a space your dog enjoys being and where amazing moments happen.
I mostly train new puppy owners because they are motivated and want to put in the time. But I believe that at any age, any breed, and any animal can learn with positive reinforcement and a basic understanding of animal psychology.
I learn from Susan Garrett and focus on
3 pillars in the 4 week program.
1) Coming When Called
2) Crate And Place
3) Walking On Leash
Through regular training sessions, you not only improve your dog's physical health and well-being but also provide them with valuable mental stimulation. By being focused in your training, your dog develops sensory awareness and self-control, which is essential when dealing with distractions. This creates a stronger bond between you and your dog, leading to a healthier and thoughtful dog.
By investing in your dog's training, you are not only improving their obedience, but also their thoughtfulness. Training requires effort and repetition, but the payoff is worth it as your dog becomes a trusted companion who knows and follows the rules. By creating a shared connection with clear boundaries, you and your dog will have a stronger bond and a more reliable partnership. So step up towards a better relationship with your furry friend.
With training, you and your dog can build a stronger bond through improved communication. By better understanding each other, you can creatively and persuasively communicate your expectations, leading to a more reliable and confident pup. Through joyful repetitions and clear results, your dog can become more focused and attentive, ultimately deepening your connection and understanding.
After helping hundreds of dog owners with new puppies I have learned that puppies are energetic, curious, mischievous and the breed doesn't matter! Australian shepherds, basset hounds, German shepherds, dachshunds, Pomeranians, And it got me thinking.
A master checklist including what I would do in the first 30 days with a puppy would be very helpful.