Basics of Puppy Training

By Mary Kegarise, Yuppy Dog Daycare & Training, YuppieDog.com

Adding a puppy to your family is a wonderful experience! Be sure you begin teaching your puppy appropriate behaviors right away.

1. Begin to crate train your puppy. Be sure the crate is the correct size - get an expandable crate if your puppy will grow into a bigger dog. Have a " reward toy", like a stuffed Kong that is only given in the crate.

2. Play games where you get the puppy to chase you. Call his or her name in a happy voice, squeak a toy, have treats - run away from the puppy. Do not chase the puppy; always get him or her to chase you.

3. Feed a premium food and treats. Limit the treats to positive reinforcing but do not give them randomly. Puppy should always earn a treat by doing some simple task.

4. Keep your puppy where you can see him or her at all times. If you cannot watch the puppy, even for a phone call or a shower, put him or her in the crate. This avoids potty accidents and inappropriate chewing.

5. As soon as your puppy is fully vaccinated, take him or her on outings to different places. Allow opportunities to meet people and see places in a safe way. Puppy Preschool and supervised play groups are great places for your puppy to learn.