When it comes to getting and raising a puppy, there are a few crucial things you need to do so your puppy grows up to be a well-behaved dog. Too many people let their puppy get away with things because it's 'cute' when they're little. But they don't think about the fact that they're forming habits that will stay with them even as grown dogs, and when they're grown, it's not cute anymore.
First of all, you should never take a puppy away from its mother and litter mates before it is 8 weeks old. Taking the puppy before 8 weeks can lead to behavioral problems down the road, because they missed that crucial developmental period with their litter mates.
Second, you need to start potty training immediately. Don't let any bad potty habits form during those first few days you have them home, because those can be hard to reverse. I suggest teaching your puppy to go potty outside right from the beginning, rather than paper training them.
Third, never let your puppy nip at your hands or feet, even if it's just playful. This is a common mistake owners regret in the long run. Always use toys to play with your puppy, never hands or feet.
Fourth, teach your puppy right from the beginning that you are the alpha dog. Also known as the 'pack leader'. Even though dogs are domesticated, they still have natural instincts. They still expect to be part of a pack, and every pack needs a pack leader.
If you don't show them you are the pack leader from the beginning, it can cause serious problems down the road when they begin to believe 'they' are the pack leader. If you're unfamiliar with what any of this means, do an online search on the topic and read up on it. It's very important to know and practice.
Last but definitely not least, you must gradually and carefully socialize your puppy for at least the first year of their life. You need to expose them to new and unfamiliar people, places, things, sounds, etc. Make sure the socialization experiences are pleasant. Carry along treats and make sure to provide plenty of praise and encouragement along the way.
I hope this article has given you some valuable insight on how to raise your puppy. Follow the advice provided and I know you'll do a great job of raising a happy, well-behaved dog that will be a loyal companion for years. - 32167
First of all, you should never take a puppy away from its mother and litter mates before it is 8 weeks old. Taking the puppy before 8 weeks can lead to behavioral problems down the road, because they missed that crucial developmental period with their litter mates.
Second, you need to start potty training immediately. Don't let any bad potty habits form during those first few days you have them home, because those can be hard to reverse. I suggest teaching your puppy to go potty outside right from the beginning, rather than paper training them.
Third, never let your puppy nip at your hands or feet, even if it's just playful. This is a common mistake owners regret in the long run. Always use toys to play with your puppy, never hands or feet.
Fourth, teach your puppy right from the beginning that you are the alpha dog. Also known as the 'pack leader'. Even though dogs are domesticated, they still have natural instincts. They still expect to be part of a pack, and every pack needs a pack leader.
If you don't show them you are the pack leader from the beginning, it can cause serious problems down the road when they begin to believe 'they' are the pack leader. If you're unfamiliar with what any of this means, do an online search on the topic and read up on it. It's very important to know and practice.
Last but definitely not least, you must gradually and carefully socialize your puppy for at least the first year of their life. You need to expose them to new and unfamiliar people, places, things, sounds, etc. Make sure the socialization experiences are pleasant. Carry along treats and make sure to provide plenty of praise and encouragement along the way.
I hope this article has given you some valuable insight on how to raise your puppy. Follow the advice provided and I know you'll do a great job of raising a happy, well-behaved dog that will be a loyal companion for years. - 32167
About the Author:
Get more tips and tricks to train a dog at DogBehaviorExpert.com, where I provide information to solve all types of dog behavior problems.
