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 shouldn't never bring home a puppy that is younger than eight weeks. During the first eight week of their life, they go through many development periods that are crucial to their long term well being. Removing a puppy from its mother and littermates too early causes behavior problems down the road.
Second, begin housebreaking your puppy right away. Don't wait. Even if it's only for a few days, your puppy can develop some bad potty habits that are hard to break. Also, avoid paper training if possible. I recommend teaching them to go potty outside right from the start (if that's where they'll be going potty in the long run.)
Third, don't allow your puppy to playfully nip at you. This mistake is fairly common, and one you will regret. Puppies should not ever be allowed to bite hands or feet, even if it's just playing. This includes playing underneath blankets or pillows.
Fourth, establish yourself as the leader of the pack right from the start. This is also know as the alpha dog. Although dogs are domesticated pets now, their natural instincts are still very much a part of them.
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. - 31866
First of all, you shouldn't never bring home a puppy that is younger than eight weeks. During the first eight week of their life, they go through many development periods that are crucial to their long term well being. Removing a puppy from its mother and littermates too early causes behavior problems down the road.
Second, begin housebreaking your puppy right away. Don't wait. Even if it's only for a few days, your puppy can develop some bad potty habits that are hard to break. Also, avoid paper training if possible. I recommend teaching them to go potty outside right from the start (if that's where they'll be going potty in the long run.)
Third, don't allow your puppy to playfully nip at you. This mistake is fairly common, and one you will regret. Puppies should not ever be allowed to bite hands or feet, even if it's just playing. This includes playing underneath blankets or pillows.
Fourth, establish yourself as the leader of the pack right from the start. This is also know as the alpha dog. Although dogs are domesticated pets now, their natural instincts are still very much a part of them.
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. - 31866
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Visit my website for more tips and tricks! I cover everything from paper training your dog to solving dog chewing problems at DogBehaviorExpert.com
