Puppy Training Tips

It’s natural to experience challenges with a new puppy so we put a few tips for you and your puppy.

Here are some basics you’ll need for your new puppy:

• Food designed specifically for puppies

• Treats for training

• Food and water dishes

• Crate (to be replaced by a bigger one as he grows)

• Bedding 

• Dog gate(s)

• Soft, adjustable collar (and new ones as he grows)

• At least one 4- to 6-foot leash, leather or webbing (an additional longer lead useful for taining)

• At least 5 or 6 safe chew toys (the more the better—toys can be rotated)

• Gentle puppy shampoo

• Good-quality dog nail trimmer

Potty Training

 Potty training is the first essential goal. Get a crate! A crate is the best tool to assist in potty training your new puppy. Then establish a timeline to follow, After the every meal take puppy outside to potty. then GIVE THEM PRAISE. As the puppy grows older they will gain bladder control and learn to hold it longer each day.  Most puppies will have to poop after meals.  Also watch when they drink large amounts of water. If your puppy drinks a big bowl of water, treat this just like a meal, and take her out to potty soon afterwards. ROUTINE IS THE KEY.

Crate Training

Crate training isn’t cruel. Dogs actually prefer to have a “den-like” space to themselves. Think of it as a place where she can be at ease. You will find it also simplifies housebreaking.

That said, there are a few important dos and don’ts when using a crate—never use it as punishment, for example—and for things you can do to maximize the benefits of crate training. Check out the AKC’s free e-book on Crate Training here .

How to Safely Socialize Your Puppy

A puppy’s socialization period, which occurs from 6-14 weeks of age, is critical for a dog's behavioral development. During this time, positive experiences with other dogs, people, noises and activities can reduce the likelihood of fearful behaviors, such as aggression and phobias, later in the dog's life. As a pet owner it is important that you allow your puppy to only has socialization with other dogs that are vaccinated and healthy.
It is important to understand that it is not until 7-10 days after the last vaccination at 14-16 weeks of age that the risk of infection is very low and you can increase the puppy's introduction and socialization with all dogs. To fully protect your puppy from canine parvovirus, the last dose of the parvovirus vaccine must be at 14-16 weeks of age, regardless of the number of doses given at an earlier age.

Until your puppy is fully protected, avoid taking it to dog parks or other areas where it has uncontrolled exposure to dogs with questionable or unknown vaccination histories.