Raising puppies is one of the more fun challenges in life. Whether you have golden retriever puppies or another breed, you’re going to be in for a handful. Consistency and routine are important factors in training a new puppy for life at home.
The earlier you get started with training, the less you have to worry about the horror stories you hear about puppies with too much energy. Use these four suggestions to help you train your golden retriever puppies!
1. Prepare Your Home Ahead Of Time For Your New Family Member
Getting your home ready to accommodate a new puppy can help you avoid a lot of stress that first-time owners go through. I’m sure I don’t have to emphasize how puppies can get into absolutely everything. Start by taking everything toxic for your dog such as cleaning chemicals, certain plants, and other items out of your home.
It’s also worth getting some electrical cord protectors for the devices in your home. Puppies will chew on everything they can, and you don’t want them to hurt themselves. One way to offset the urge to chew everything is to ensure they have really great chew toys. Buying toys they like will help keep your golden retriever puppies away from your shoes and other unsafe items to chew on.
2. Reward Good Behavior And Consistency
At a certain point, your puppy knows better but is still going to try to see what they can get away with. Part of raising a well-behaved puppy is consistency. When your puppy does something good, make sure you reward them with attention and sometimes treats. Consistently rewarding good behavior will help your puppy learn quicker.
Another way to establish consistency is to serve meals and go for walks at the same times. Reward your puppy for sitting still while you pour their food in their dish or while you’re attaching their leash. Your puppy will get used to repeating these good behaviors at these specific times. This will help them understand how things work in your home.
3. Establish A Regular Mealtime
Establishing a regular mealtime helps to give your puppy something to look forward to. Regular meals also help control their body weight and avoid obesity. Establishing regular meal times also enables you to notice any changes in your puppies behavior or well being. It’ll be easier to notice if they’re eating less or starting to become ravenous.
Hand feeding your puppy is an excellent way to start establishing meal time. Hand feeding will help your puppy develop control of their mouth, so they don’t rip or bite when they take things from your hands. Hand feeding also teaches self-control which influences their ability to socialize with other dogs and humans. Hand feeding takes patience as you likely have other things to do, but the longer you can do it the better.
4. Consider Taking Advantage Of Classes
When your puppy is about 10-12 weeks old, they’re ready to start school. Putting your puppy in classes can help accelerate their ability to learn and socialize. Puppy school will also help you teach your essential dog commands such as “drop it” and “give it.” Developing these skills from an early age help your puppy stay safe and alert.
One of the critical takeaways of puppy kindergarten is that learning should never end for your dog. Teaching them new tricks and introducing them to new toys helps keep their mind and body sharp and active. Committing to continuing to teach your puppy new things also helps keep their energy under control.
