7 Puppy Training Tips for New Dog Owners

Around 2 million dogs are adopted in America every year. If you are adding to this statistic, then it’s important to properly train your new puppy.

It is essential for new dog owners to establish a training routine as soon as they bring their puppy home. Teaching your new puppy basic commands will set them up for success later on.

Here are a few puppy training tips to consider as a new pet parent.

1. Establish Your Own Rules

It is important to establish rules with yourself or your family before you even bring your puppy home. You need to establish rules and stick to them. Ask yourself questions such as, “Will the puppy be allowed on the furniture?” or, “Will the puppy sleep in a crate or on the floor?”

Having these rules established beforehand can prevent confusion or disagreements between you and other members of your household.

2. Introduce Your Puppy to Their New Home

When you first bring your puppy home, you need to let them become familiar with their new environment. Let them wander around and explore their new space. You don’t want to start training a puppy immediately. Let them settle in and become comfortable first.

3. Teach Them Not to Jump

One of the first things you should teach a new puppy is to not jump up on people. Puppies tend to get excited when they see their owners or other new people, and their first instinct may be to jump.

It is important not to give your dog any attention when they decide to jump. You can do this by turning your back until your puppy has all four paws on the ground.

4. Begin Crate and Potty Training

Our next piece of puppy training advice is to start crate and potty training. Puppies may be hesitant to enter their crate at first, but if you make it a safe environment for them, they will learn to love it.

You can establish this positive relationship by giving them a treat when they go into their crate. Also, it is important not to leave them in their crate for too long at first. Start by leaving them for short periods of time so they can understand that you are not abandoning them.

5. Start With Basic Commands

The best way to train a puppy is to not overwhelm them with too many commands. Start with the basics, and once your puppy has mastered these, you can move on to more advanced actions.

Some good commands to start with are teaching your dog to sit, stay, and come. 

6. Introduce Leash Walking

Experts recommend that you walk your puppy three to four times a day for at least 15 minutes, so it is important to teach your dog proper walking etiquette.

You’ll want to start by choosing a good-quality leash or harness for your furry friend. One of our favorites is this Joyride dog harness. Then you can use both the leash and your voice to teach your dog to heel.

7. Reward Good Behavior 

Training a puppy is hard work for both the trainer and the dog, so it is important to reward good behavior. Give your puppy praise and treats when they do well!

Start Using These Puppy Training Tips Today

So, are you ready to start training your furry friend? Feel free to refer back to these puppy training tips every time you need a quick refresher.

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