By Rodney Boettger
Begin training your puppy as soon as possible. Keep in mind that he will need some wiggle room until about 4 months old. That does not mean letting your puppy run wild in public places. It is very important to always keep a leash or harness on your puppy in public places and where there is danger from traffic. In many areas it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful and know your local regulations.
Also be careful in parks if there are older dogs loose as they may attack a crazy pup they think is infringing in their territory. An energetic young pup of a larger breed can also harm very young children or fragile elderly people by jumping on them excitedly. Always keep your pup in sight when he's off a lead.
Plenty of exercise and fresh air is essential for a fast growing young puppy. He needs the exercise to strengthen his bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs. Being in public places also allows him to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general.
He should be exercised daily if possible; with a side benefit being that he will sleep well and not get bored, which is the main cause of bad habits and destructive behavior seen in so many young dogs today. Another thing it prevents is shyness, which is primarily caused by isolation as a pup, although shyness is also a trait that can be inherited.
Starting Your Pups Basic Training
You can start training a puppy from about 4 to 6 months of age. It is possible to train older dogs, but it's a lot harder. Don't overdo these exercises, 10 minutes a day is enough. You'll find that your puppy tires fairly quickly, and a tired pup won't learn anything.
Be regular in your training sessions, taking him out at about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session, and the pup will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.
Instructing a Puppy to Heel
Training a dog to walk with you properly is one of the most important and fundamental skills you must teach. This is crucial if you have a dog that will grow very large as an adult. Teaching him young will provide you with excellent results as he matures.
Walk at a steady pace with your puppy on a firm fitting collar and lead. Have him on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL. Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg.
If your pup pulls away or gets distracted, just keep walking, he'll soon get the message and follow along.
If you don't stop, he'll have to follow. As he follows you after a distraction, pat him saying GOOD DOG or GOOD BOY or GIRL.
If he tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When he obeys, give him a pat and praise him and he'll soon get the message.
Show Your Puppy How to Sit
Once your puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach him to sit. With him walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on his back end with your left hand.
Do not use too much force that could injure your pet. He will have no choice but to sit.
While lifting with the collar takes weight off his front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing him down.
Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising him each time he sits. Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times in a 10 minute walk.
These were just a few tips to help you get started on training your new puppy. Training you pet yourself can be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life. It also will help man's best friend" create a strong bond with you, so remember to always keep it positive and fun for you and your dog.
About the Author:
Shari Belden and Rodney Boettger are both huge dog lovers and wanted to help others enjoy Man's Best Friend." They have put together [ http://dog-care.thingstoknownow.com] to provide useful information relating to all areas of dog ownership. Source: [ http://www.isnare.com]