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The 7 Stages of Puppy Development:
In order to understand why your puppy doesnt listen to you at times, you need to understand each
stage of development a puppy goes through as it matures.


Lets take a look at the different stages, but before we do, keep in mind that these stages are
generalizations each dog will progress at its own pace.
Stage 1: The Transitional Stage

2-3 Weeks

The Transitional stage generally lasts from age two to three weeks, and its during this time that your
puppys eyes will open, and hell slowly start to respond to light and movement and sounds around
him.

Hell become a little more mobile during this period, trying to get his feet underneath him and crawling
around in the box (or wherever home is.) Hell start to recognize mom and his littermates, and any
objects you might place in the box.



Stage 2: The Almost Ready To Meet The World Stage

3-4 Weeks

The Almost ready to meet the world stage lasts from 3 to about 4 weeks, and your puppy undergoes
rapid sensory development during this time. Fully alert to his environment, hell begin to recognize you
and other family members.

Its best to avoid loud noises or sudden changes during this period negative events can have a
serious impact on his personality and development right now. Puppies learn how to be a dog during
this time, so its essential that they stay with mom and littermates.



Stage 3: The Overlap Stage

4-7 Weeks

From 3-4 weeks your puppy begins the most critical social development period of his life he learns
social interaction with his littermates, learns how to play and learns bite inhibition.

Hell also learn discipline at this point Mom will begin weaning the pups around this time, and will
start teaching them basic manners, including accepting her as the leader of the pack. You can begin to
introduce food to the pups starting around the 4th week transition gradually as Mom weans them.

Continue handling the pups daily, but dont separate them from either Mom or litter mates for more
than about 10 minutes per day. Puppies that are removed from the nest too early frequently are
nervous, more prone to barking and biting and have a more difficult time with socialization and
training. Puppies need to be left with Mom and siblings until at least 7 weeks of age - and preferably a
little longer - for optimum social development.

Experts say that the best time in a puppys life to learn social skills is between 3 and 16 weeks of age
thats the window of opportunity you have to make sure your puppy grows up to be a well-adjusted
dog.

Its extremely important to leave your puppy with Mom and his littermates during as much of this
period as possible. Dont discipline for play fighting, housebreaking mistakes or mouthing thats all
normal behavior for a puppy at this stage.



Stage 4: The Im Afraid of Everything Stage

8 Weeks to 3 Months


The Im Afraid of Everything Stage lasts from about 8 weeks to 3 months, and is characterized by
rapid learning as well as a fearful period that usually pops up at around 8 to 10 weeks. Not all dogs
experience this, but most do, and theyll appear terrified over things that they took in stride before.
This is not a good time to engage in harsh discipline (not that you ever should anyway!), loud voices or
traumatic events.

At this time your puppys bladder and bowels are starting to come under much better control, and hes
capable of sleeping through the night. (At last, you can get some rest!)

You can begin teaching simple commands like: come, sit, stay, down, etc. Leash training can begin.
Its important not to isolate your puppy from human contact at this time, as hell continue to learn
behaviors and manners that will affect him in later years.



Stage 5: The Juvenile Stage

3 Months to 4 Months

The Juvenile stage typically lasts from 3 to 4 months of age, and its during this time your puppy is
most like a toddler. Hell be a little more independent - he might start ignoring the commands hes only
recently learned just like a child does when theyre trying to exert their new-found independence.

As in I dont have to listen to you! Firm and gentle reinforcement of commands and training is whats
required here.

He might start biting you play biting or even a real attempt to challenge your authority. A sharp
No! or No bite! command, followed by several minutes of ignoring him, should take care of this
problem.

Continue to play with him and handle him on a daily basis, but dont play games like tug of war or
wrestling with him. He may perceive tug of war as a game of dominance especially if he wins. And
wrestling is another game that can rapidly get out of hand. As your puppys strength grows, hes going
to want to play-fight to see whos stronger even if you win, the message your puppy receives is that
its ok to fight with you. And thats not ok!




Stage 6: The Brat Stage

4-6 Months

The Brat Stage starts at about 4 months and runs until about 6 months, and its during this time your
puppy will demonstrate even more independence and willfulness. You may see a decline in his urge to
please you expect to see more testing the limits type of behaviors.

Hell be going through a teething cycle during this time, and will also be looking for things to chew on
to relieve the pain and pressure. Frozen doggie bones can help sooth him during this period.

He may try to assert his new dominance over other family members, especially children. Continue his
training in obedience and basic commands, but make sure to never let him off his leash during this
time unless youre in a confined area.

Many times pups at this age will ignore commands to return or come to their owners, which can be a
dangerous, even fatal, breakdown in your dogs response to you. If you turn him loose in a public
place, and he bolts, the chances of injury or even death can result so dont take the chance.

Hell now begin to go through the hormonal changes brought about by his growing sexual maturity,
and you may see signs of rebelliousness. (Think adolescent teen-age boy!) If you havent already, you
should have him neutered during this time. (Or spayed if you have a female.)



Stage 7: The Young Adult Stage

6-18 Months

The Young Adulthood stage lasts from 6 months to about 18 months, and is usually a great time in
your dogs life - hes young, hes exuberant, hes full of beans and yet hes learning all the things he
needs to become a full-fledged adult dog.

Be realistic in your expectations of your dog at this time just because hes approaching his full
growth and may look like an adult, hes not as seasoned and experienced as you might expect.

Gradually increase the scope of activities for your dog, as well as the training. You can start more
advanced training during this period, such as herding or agility training, if thats something both of you
are interested in. Otherwise, extend his activities to include more people and other animals allow him
to interact with non-threatening or non-aggressive dogs.


Congratulations! Youve raised your puppy through the 7 stages of childhood, er, I mean puppyhood,
and now you have a grown-up, adult dog! Almost feels like youve raised a kid, doesnt it?


About the Author:

Article Reprinted with permission by Charlie Lafave, author, "Dog Training Secrets!"

To transform your stubborn, misbehaving dog into a loyal, well-behaving "best friend" who obeys your
every command and is the envy of the neighborhood, visit:

http://www.DogTrainingZone.com




Some dog training methods are based on what makes the OWNER feel good, rather than what on actually makes sense
to the DOG. Read why some popular dog training methods don't work, and why Respect Training does work.
training articles
Dog Training What Works, and What Doesn't
Teach Your Dog To Respect You (Respect Training)
Teach the Right Words In The Right Ways
Solving Dog Behavior Problems
Puppy Training Schedule
Housebreaking Your Dog
Socializing Your Dog To Get Along With The World

before you get a dog
The Truth About
Purebred Dogs
The Truth About
Crossbred Dogs
The Truth About
Mixed Breed Dogs
Which Dog Breed is
Best For You?

popular topics
Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Training & Behavior
Dog Health & Feeding
Our Books
o See all of our books
o Teach Your Dog 100 English Words
o 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy
o Dog Quest: Find The Dog Of Your Dreams
Free Info
o Dog Training
o Health Care & Feeding
o Finding a Good Dog
o Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Breed Reviews
o 180 Dog Breeds:
What's Good About 'Em,
What's Bad About 'Em
Connect With Us
o Follow us on Facebook
o About us
Home Dog Training Articles Dog Training

Dog Training What Works, And What Doesn't
By Michele Welton. Copyright 2000-2013
37


Treats can be great motivators, but if your dog will only obey for a treat, then HE is in charge of his obedience, not
you.
Many dog training methods are based on what makes the OWNER feel good, rather than on what
actually makes sense to the DOG. For example....
"Positive only" dog training is a big fad right now
With "positive only" dog training, you bribe your dog to do something with food or a toy. If he does
the desired behavior, he receives the reward.
If he refuses to do it.....nothing happens. You don't give him the reward, you don't show him how
to do the behavior, you just stand and wait....and hope.
"Positive only" dog training often includes a clicker device a little metal tab that makes a clicking
sound when pressed with your thumb. Clicker trainingis a form of "operant conditioning" (a term
some of you may recognize from your college psych classes).
Here's how it works: You click the clicker at the precise instant your dog is doing some desired
behavior. You then immediately give a treat. The dog thus learns that whenever he hears the
clicking sound, whatever behavior he was doing at that instant will bring him food.
The problems with "positive only" dog training
Positive only dog training and clicker training sound very noble, and if your dog is food-oriented,
this training method works well for teaching fun things like tricks where it really doesn't matter
whether your dog obeys or not. If you tell him to shake hands or roll over, and he doesn't do it,
who cares?
But for teaching your dog to come when called in the presence of temptations or distractions...for
teaching your dog to stand quietly while his teeth are brushed or his coat is groomed...for teaching
your dog to act politely toward strangers and other animals, and for teaching your dog all the other
sorts of behaviors you want a civilized family dog to do (or not do!), positive-only dog training
just doesn't cut it.
Think about it. What happens when you want your dog to stop chasing a
cat and come to you but at that particular moment he's not hungry and
wouldrather chase the cat rather than munch on a biscuit?

Owners who rely on positive-only dog training are stuck
whenever their dog "isn't in the mood" to do something.
An old-time trainer once said that if a dog really wants to chase a cat, he will chase it regardless
of biscuits showering upon him like manna from heaven.
Positive-only dog training suffers from a serious flaw it does not
teach your dog to respect you, and it isRESPECT that motivates a
dog to be well-behaved..... yes, even at times when he doesn't feel
like it.

Why Respect Training makes so much more sense to dogs
I call my philosophy of dog training Respect Training and here's how it works:
Real life for all living creatures (including dogs, and yes, humans, too!) consists of learning from
both positive AND negative consequences.
Positive consequences encourage us to repeat a behavior.
Negative consequences discourage us from repeating a behavior.
For example, we hold the elevator door open and someone says, "Thank you!" (positive), so we
are likely to do it again. We take an extra-long lunch break and the boss docks our pay (negative),
so we are less likely to do that again. We learn from both positive and negative consequences and
behave accordingly.

Your dog learns from both positive and negative consequences. Momma Dog will let Puppy know if he is playing
reasonably or if he gets too rough.
So do dogs. When a puppy plays with his mother, if his style of play is reasonable, she responds
in a positive manner. But if he gets too rough, she is quick to correct with a growl or bite. Does
Puppy become depressed and never play with another dog again? Of course not. He is happy to
play only more gently.
Positive only dog training is well-intentioned, but it doesn't match real life or how dogs learn best.
Simply withholding a treat is not a negative consequence to most dogs. Especially not when
they're happily occupied with pestering the cat or chewing up shoes or digging through the trash.
They don't care a whit about your treat.
No, dogs learn best from balanced dog training, where their behaviors can result in positive OR
negative consequences.
Positive consequences = YOU rewarding desirable behaviors with praise, smiles, petting,
games, and treats.
Negative consequences = YOU correcting undesirable behaviors with your voice or hands,
or with the leash or collar. Now, I don't mean hitting, yelling, choke collars, or shock collars
I can show you how to correct your dog without being harsh or hurtful.

Be realistic and fair with your dog. Show him positive AND negative consequences so he can make an informed
choice.
By showing your dog both positive and negative consequences, he can make a conscious choice
to do a behavior (or refrain from doing a behavior) not only when he's in the mood for a positive
consequence (reward, treat) but also when he might not care a hoot about the positive
consequence but he controls himself because he doesn't want the negative consequence
(correction).
All of life works this way cause and effect.
When YOU become the arbiter of your dog's behaviors the one who gets to say yea or nay
about what he's allowed to do your dog feels secure and respectful. And once your dog respects
you, he will listen to you, pay attention to you, do whatever you ask, and stop any misbehavior
upon a single word from you.
You might appreciate my article on Respect Training.
Or just follow the complete, step-by-step Respect Training program in my book, Teach Your Dog
100 English Words. You can download it and start reading immediately, or you can have the
printed book mailed to you.


Copyright 2000-2013 by Michele Welton. All rights reserved.
No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website,
or distributed in any way without the express permission of the author.
Legal Stuff | Privacy Policy | Sitemap | FAQ | Links | Contact



Sensible dog training means teaching your puppy (or adult dog) to respect you. Good manners will follow and dog
behavior problems will disappear.
training articles
Dog Training What Works, and What Doesn't
Teach Your Dog To Respect You (Respect Training)
Teach the Right Words In The Right Ways
Solving Dog Behavior Problems
Puppy Training Schedule
Housebreaking Your Dog
Socializing Your Dog To Get Along With The World

before you get a dog
The Truth About
Purebred Dogs
The Truth About
Crossbred Dogs
The Truth About
Mixed Breed Dogs
Which Dog Breed is
Best For You?

popular topics
Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Training & Behavior
Dog Health & Feeding
Our Books
o See all of our books
o Teach Your Dog 100 English Words
o 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy
o Dog Quest: Find The Dog Of Your Dreams
Free Info
o Dog Training
o Health Care & Feeding
o Finding a Good Dog
o Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Breed Reviews
o 180 Dog Breeds:
What's Good About 'Em,
What's Bad About 'Em
Connect With Us
o Follow us on Facebook
o About us
Home Dog Training Articles Respect Training

Respect Training For Puppies and Adult Dogs
By Michele Welton. Copyright 2000-2013
86


Frustrated dog owners often call or email me when their dog has behavior problems and needs training.
Meet Kathy Armstrong and Jake
I often get phone calls from distressed owners who are having trouble with their dog. Let's listen in
on a phone conversation between myself and a typical dog owner....let's call her Kathy Armstrong.

Kathy: "Michele, my dog Jake is being difficult! I can't make him do anything. He only listens to
me when he's in the mood."
Me: "I see. Would you say Jake is behaving rudely?"
Kathy (surprised): "What do you mean? How can a dog be rude?"
Ah, how indeed! Let us count the ways!



Talking back
Me: "Does Jake sass you back when you tell him to do something? Does he bark back at you?"
Kathy: "Well, yes, sometimes. If he doesn't want to do something."

Grumbling when annoyed
Me: "Does he ever grumble at you when you wake him up? Or when you try to move him off his
favorite chair? Or when you reach toward his food bowl while he's eating? Or when you touch
some "sensitive" part of his body, like his tail or stomach or paw?"
Kathy: "Yes, he does growl sometimes, but he's just telling me not to bother him."



Hanging onto objects
Me: "Does he brace his legs and refuse to let go when you try to take something away from him?"
Kathy: "Yes, if it's something he wants to keep for himself."



Pestering you
Me: "Does Jake persistently nudge or pester you for attention when you're trying to read the
newspaper, or when you talk on the phone or visit with guests?"
Kathy: "Yes, when I'm not paying attention to him."


Stealing food
Me: "Does Jake sometimes steal food off your plate when you leave it unattended? Does he get
into the trash?"
Kathy:: "Um..."

"Getting back at you"
Me: "When Jake doesn't get his own way or when he's upset with you, does he ever "act out" by
chewing things up or peeing somewhere in the house?"
Kathy: "Why, yes.....I think he does it to get back at me."


Staying just out of your reach
Me: "When you reach your hand toward Jake, does he sometimes dart away from you, keeping
just out of reach?"
Kathy: "Yes, he does....he doesn't want me to catch him if I'm going to put his leash on or give
him a bath."




Running away from you
Me: "When you catch Jake doing something wrong, does he run from you? Does he lead you on a
merry chase around the house or yard?"
Kathy:: "Uh-huh. So he can't be scolded. He doesn't always come when I call him, either, unless
he knows I have a cookie."





"Telling off" strangers or other dogs
Me: "Does Jake decide who's welcome in your home and who isn't? Does he bark or grumble at
visitors even after you've let them in? Does he pitch a fit when he sees another dog?"
Kathy: "Well, if he's excited... or if he doesn't like them..."




Jumping on people
Me: "Ah, and if he does like them, is he calm and polite? Or does he jump all over them?"
Silence. Then....
Kathy: "I'm beginning to see your point."



Me: "And you said he only obeys when he's in the mood.
Kathy (sighing): "You're right, Michele. Jake does do quite a few of those things.
But are they really that bad?"
Why rude behaviors are bad
Me: "I'm afraid so. Those behaviors are rude and disrespectful. If a dog is
allowed to do things that are rude and disrespectful, he starts believing that he is higher in
the pecking order than YOU are."
Kathy (puzzled): "And the pecking order is...?"
Me: "It's like a ladder of hierarchy. Dogs are sociable animals who like to live with other sociable
animals in a group or pack. This "pack instinct" is built into your dog's genes, and it's a good thing,
too, because it's why dogs wedge themselves so tightly into our families.
When a dog joins your family, even if your family consists only
of a single person YOU a pack is formed.

Oh, yes, in his mind it certainly is, and his instincts compel him to seek out its structure: Who is the
leader, and who is the follower?
I'll give you a hint.....whoever is allowed to set the rules and make the decisions is the leader.
The other one is the follower.
If you don't establish YOURSELF as the leader, your dog will be compelled
by his instincts to assume that role. And now you will see those "rude and
disrespectful" behaviors. Your dog isn't really being rude or disrespectful. He
is simply carrying out his role as Leader. Since you haven't assumed the role,
HE has to do it."

Kathy (anxiously): "But I don't want to rule over or control my dog. I just want him to be my friend."


If your dog won't "let" you bathe him, the pecking order is wrong between the two of you.

If your dog won't "let" you clean his teeth or take something out of his mouth, the pecking order is wrong between
the two of you.
Me: "Kathy, friends are equals. Jake is your dependent. He depends on you for his health, his
safety, his very life. There are times when you need to do things with Jake that he doesn't
understand and doesn't like.
For example, you might need to give medicine that tastes awful..... or take something dangerous
out of his mouth..... or roll him onto his back so you can cut out a nasty mat or remove a tick from
his belly.
Jake may be smart, but he doesn't understand that medicines will help him, that some things he
puts in his mouth will poison him or choke him, that mats are bad for his skin and ticks carry
disease. Without this knowledge, Jake doesn't know what's best for him.
For his own safety, your dog must always accept YOUR greater knowledge and judgment.
For your own peace of mind as your dog's guardian and caregiver, you
must feel confident that you can restrain and handle him in any way you
see fit, at any time you see fit.

If your dog won't "let" you groom him, the pecking order is wrong between the two of you.

If your dog won't even accept minor things such as clipping his toenails, or cleaning his teeth, or
dropping a toy, or sitting quietly while you attach his leash.... if your dog barks back at you, or
pesters you, or won't shut up when people come to the door, or dashes away from you, or won't
come when he's called.... then he's certainly not going to accept some major things you might
need to do with him to take proper care of him.
You simply cannot take proper care of your dog
if he doesn't acknowledge you as his leader."
Kathy: "But I'm worried that if I take charge all the time, he'll resent me."
Me:: "No, he'll RESPECT you.....and that is a wonderful thing! When your dog respects you, when
he recognizes you as a capable leader worthy of respect, he will not only behave beautifully for
you, but also he will feel happy and secure.....because it's a great load off his shoulders. Follower
dogs are MUCH happier than dogs who are forced to be the boss in their family.
Let me explain why follower dogs feel so happy and secure
Follower dogs feel secure because they know someone else is in charge.
Your dog craves a leader who has everything under control. Then HE doesn't have to worry about
trying to figure out our complicated world. Follower dogs can just relax and enjoy life while YOU
handle all the decisions.

Follower dogs feel happy because everyone likes them.
Since follower dogs are so willing to listen to you and learn from you, it's easy to teach them
the kinds of good behaviors that make them stand out in a crowd. People appreciate well-
behaved follower dogs and are quick to pet them and compliment them. Dogs love this kind of
attention.

Follower dogs feel secure because they've learned the consequences of everything they
do.
Follower dogs have been taught which behaviors bring them praise, petting, and treats, and which
behaviors bring scolding or corrections. This clear distinction helps them choose which behaviors
to do, and which behaviors to avoid. Dogs love the security of knowing what to do and what not to
do.

Follower dogs are happy because they've learned what our human
sounds mean.
Like anyone who learns a foreign language, your dog feels confident and empowered when
he understands what you're saying.
If you want your dog to be the follower......YOU must be the leader
Kathy: "Okay, I like the idea that Jake will feel happier and more secure when I teach him to be a
follower dog. But why do I need to be a leader to teach him things? Won't he learn from me if I just
love him? Don't dogs want to please the people they love?"
Me: "Surprisingly, no. Dogs only want to please people they respect. They only want to please
leaders. If your dog is doing any of those behaviors we talked about earlier.....if he's not listening
to you....then you've lost at least some of his respect, and you need to know what to do to get it
back."
Kathy (resolutely): "I think I understand. Tell me what to do!"
Me: "Just follow the step-by-step Respect Training program in my dog training book, Teach Your
Dog 100 English Words. You'll learn how to teach Jake to be a respectful follower dog and then
he'll pay attention to you and do what you say. Exactly what you've been looking for!


Copyright 2000-2013 by Michele Welton. All rights reserved.
No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website,
or distributed in any way without the express permission of the author.
Legal Stuff | Privacy Policy | Sitemap | FAQ | Links | Contact



A month by month training schedule for what to teach your new puppy, including the most important lessons puppies
should learn.
training articles
Dog Training What Works, and What Doesn't
Teach Your Dog To Respect You (Respect Training)
Teach the Right Words In The Right Ways
Solving Dog Behavior Problems
Puppy Training Schedule
Housebreaking Your Dog
Socializing Your Dog To Get Along With The World

before you get a dog
The Truth About
Purebred Dogs
The Truth About
Crossbred Dogs
The Truth About
Mixed Breed Dogs
Which Dog Breed is
Best For You?

popular topics
Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Training & Behavior
Dog Health & Feeding
Our Books
o See all of our books
o Teach Your Dog 100 English Words
o 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy
o Dog Quest: Find The Dog Of Your Dreams
Free Info
o Dog Training
o Health Care & Feeding
o Finding a Good Dog
o Dog Breed Reviews
Dog Breed Reviews
o 180 Dog Breeds:
What's Good About 'Em,
What's Bad About 'Em
Connect With Us
o Follow us on Facebook
o About us
Home Dog Training Articles Puppy Training Schedule

Puppy Training Schedule: What To Teach Puppies, and When
By Ralph and Michele Welton. Copyright 2000-2013
84


Puppy training starts the moment you bring your puppy home. Whatever he does, you must react properly or he
will learn the wrong things.
We always anticipate the joys of all-that's-good about owning a puppy. But often it doesn't work
out as well as we'd hoped. Because puppies are delightful bundles of energy and curiosity....but
they can also be exasperating and frustrating.
If you respond properly to the challenges of bringing a new puppy into your home, the adjustment
period will be shorter and less stressful for both of you.
If you do not respond properly.....well, that's why there are so many adolescent dogs turned over
to rescue groups and animal shelters.

What must you get right?

Routines are reassuring to puppies. For example, his food and water bowls should stay in one place.
First and foremost, teach your new puppy his daily routines. Where his food and water dishes are
located. What times of day he will eat. Where his bed is. What time he goes to bed. What time he
gets up. Where he goes to the bathroom. Where his toys are kept.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that it doesn't matterHOW you teach each of these routines. It
definitely does matter. If you do it the right way, your puppy will be better-behaved and pleased to
let you decide how you want him to fit into your family.
If you use the wrong teaching method, your puppy will begin making decisions about how he
wants YOU to fit into his life, and that's a recipe for conflict and behavior problems.
Teach your puppy words.

These words are taught AFTER your puppy has learned the two most important words: "No" and "Good."
You must teach your puppy words, as well as routines. The most important words are "No" (which
means "Stop whatever you're doing") and "Good" (which means "I like what you're doing"). These
correction and praise words should be started at 2-3 months of age.
Praise and correction words will be used to teach many other words that Puppy needs to know.
You must teach them properly, with the right tone of voice and the right body language, or they
won't be of any help in teaching other words. If your puppy is older than 2-3 months and hasn't
learned "No" and "Good" flawlessly, you must start with those words before you can expect
success with other word training.

Avoid biscuit training.

Most puppies love treats, but don't RELY on them to teach good behavior.
It would be a big mistake to rely on food treats to teach your puppy or a dog of any age. What's
wrong with "biscuit training"? It's based on your puppy deciding when he's hungry enough to do
what you want.
Imagine your puppy running out the front door. You call him to offer a treat. But he'd rather chase
a squirrel into the road than stop to munch a treat. In addition to the obvious danger of Puppy
getting hit by a car, he learns that he doesn't have to listen to you. He learns that he's in charge of
what he decides to do and what he decides not to do. Very bad!
Now, I'm not saying you shouldn't give ANY treats to your puppy. Treats can be great motivators.
But if your training method consists of giving your puppy a treat when he does what you
say....while doing nothing if he DOESN'T do what you say.....then you're going to find yourself
in serious trouble whenever you want him to do something and he's not hungry....or whenever you
want him to STOP doing something and he'd rather go on doing it, regardless of the treats you're
desperately flinging at him.

A puppy who is taught to respect you will pay close attention to you.
This sad scenario happens a lot with biscuit training. It doesn't happen at all with "Respect
Training."

Respect training is a must
You must teach your puppy to respect you as the leader in your home. Without proper respect,
your training schedule doesn't matter much because he may learn words and routines but
choose not to do them. I'm sure you've heard stories from dog owners who say their dog
"understands" them just fine he just doesn't DO what they say. They might even try to laugh it off
by saying, "He's so smart he has ME trained!" This isn't intelligence it's disrespect. And it can be
traced to improper training right from the time the puppy was first brought home.

Chihuahua and Papillon, listening carefully for words they know
Respect training is not something you can get "almost" right. You must get it completely,
consistently right in a way that dogs understand. I can help you with this.
Dogs are capable of learning many words, and there is no better way to get your dog to
understand what you want and what you don't want than to teach him carefully chosen vocabulary
words. Of course, knowing which words to teach isn't much help unless you also know HOW to
teach them. I can help you with this, too. Keep reading.
First, I'll give you a hint. Don't expect your dog to want to listen to children's stories.
But do expect him to listen carefully to your words, waiting for one he understands. Expect him to
be eager to follow your directions.

Puppy training schedule....more training at 2-3 months

A crate protects your puppy from household dangers and is an invaluable aid in housebreaking.
Crate training (2-3 months)
Your puppy's crate is his safe and secure den. Some people mistakenly refer to a crate as "doggie
jail." That is not the way Puppy will view his crate. Oh, at first he might be unhappy to have his
movements curtailed, but it won't be long at all before he goes into the crate on his own, to take a
nap or just to get away from household activity.
For a new puppy, a crate is an invaluable aid in housebreaking. When your puppy is used to his
crate, it will be easy to take him visiting, for trips in the car, or to the vet. My book details eight
applications for crate training. When we watch TV, we sit in our favorite chairs and our dog Buffy
chooses to lie down in her crate, watching the same shows we watch (well, sort of!).
Housebreaking (2-3 months)
At 2-3 months old, puppies are infants and won't have reliable control of their bladder for many
months. Some breeds are notoriously difficult to housebreak and take even longer. Still,
housebreaking begins the day you bring your puppy home. Establish the right pattern from the
beginning and Puppy will be housebroken as soon as his little organs can cooperate.
But if you establish the wrong pattern, housebreaking will become a nightmare.
There are several methods of housebreaking, including using a crate, an exercise pen (commonly
called an "ex-pen"), a doggy door leading into a small potty yard, or a litter box (for tiny breeds).
You'll find detailed housebreaking directions in my training book and yes, I cover each and every
one of those housebreaking methods so you can choose which one works best for your dog.


Start handling your puppy immediately
so he learns to accept anything you
need to do with him.
Acceptance of being handled (2-3 months)
Your puppy must accept YOU as the leader in your family. You are the one who decides what is
OK and what isn't. Grooming, clipping nails, giving medicine, removing a tick or a splinter, putting
on a collar or harness. These are all examples of times when YOU not Puppy have to be the
one to decide what is necessary.
The best way to do this is to include it in your vocabulary lessons and your respect lessons. If you
teach words and respect properly, acceptance of being handled will come naturally they go
"hand-in-hand"!




Teach your puppy to be gentle when interacting with people He must not nip or chew on people's hands.
Gentleness (2-3 months)
Like acceptance of being handled, gentleness is taught along with vocabulary and respect training.
Puppies who have been taken away from their mothers too soon (before 7 weeks old) tend to be
more nippy and to play more roughly. You will have to take over from wherever his mother left off
and teach your puppy how to restrain himself, and what is OK to do when living with humans.
Remember, you must be the who sets the limits of ALL good and bad behavior.




This particular behavior would be a "No."
Household rules (2-3 months)
Start early teaching Puppy which behaviors are allowed in your house and which behaviors aren't.
Is he allowed to shred the toilet paper? jump up on the furniture? jump into the lap of a seated
person? Is he allowed in the kitchen when meals are being prepared? Can he take a toy away
from another dog in the family? Is he allowed to eat your son's homework? Can he take socks out
of the laundry basket? Is it OK to sleep on your bed with you? What about barking at strangers he
sees through the window?
YOU decide on the household rules. Then be completely consistent about enforcing what you
have decided. "No!" and "Good!" will serve you well for these puppy lessons, but only if you have
taught those words properly.

Is your puppy older than 2-3 months?
You might think a training schedule would be different for an older puppy....but it isn't. Whether
your puppy is 3 months old, 6 months old, or 9 months old, the order of training must start with the
same vocabulary words and respect training I've been talking about. Namely, routines, correction
and praise words, crate training, housebreaking, acceptance of being handled, gentleness, and
household rules.
If your puppy is still mouthing on your hands, or barking back at you when you tell him to do
something, or if he doesn't stop whatever he's doing when you say, "No", you mustn't rush on to
"heel" or "sit-stay". Respect needs to come first, no matter how many months it takes. Then you
can move on to....

Sit, stay, heel....older puppies are ready to start learning more advanced words only after they are obeying basics
such as "No." Don't jump ahead!
Walk on the leash without pulling.
Come when called. Every time.
Lie down and STAY lying down for up to 30 minutes.
Wait inside the door or gate, even when it's open, until you tell him he can go through.
Stop barking when you say "Quiet."
"Give" or "Drop" whatever is in his mouth when told.
and much, much more
All of these skills involve Puppy learning new words, but remember, simply knowing what a word
"means" won't automatically lead to Puppy DOING it. No, you need to teach all these new words in
a specific way that encourages Puppy to view you as a leader. Popping treats into his mouth won't
accomplish that.
Now, leadership doesn't mean hitting Puppy, either. Or yelling at him. No choke collars or shock
collars. Just sensible leadership little things you need to say and do, on a daily basis, every time
you interact with Puppy.
All puppies misbehave from time to time. How you respond when Puppy misbehaves is
very, very important.
If you respond the wrong way, he will keep misbehaving.
Respond the right way and he will view you as a leader and listen to you.
It is so important to get this right the first time around, because
Puppy won't ever be the same age again. You only get one chance
to teach all the right habits to a "clean slate" puppy. If you try to
train your puppy without help, you will probably have to re-do the
lessons, only this time with an older puppy with bad habits.
You don't need to sign up for an obedience class to get help training your puppy. I've taught
hundreds of those classes and they can be overwhelming for a puppy. Timid puppies can get
overrun by bullies, and excitable puppies just get more excited.
You can teach your puppy at home. I'll help you. In my dog training book, Teach Your Dog 100
English Words, I'll show you a step-by-step training schedule for teaching your puppy all the
vocabulary words he needs, plus consistent household rules and routines, housebreaking, crate
training, acceptance of being handled, gentleness, and obedience training. Most importantly, I'll
show you how to teach your puppy to respect you so that he actually does what you say. You can
download the book immediately, or have a printed book sent to you in the mail.


Copyright 2000-2013 by Michele Welton. All rights reserved.
No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website,
or distributed in any way without the express permission of the author.
Alaskan Malamute photo by Daniel Pill, licensed under Creative Commons
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Home Dog Training Articles Housebreaking Your Dog

Housebreaking (Potty Training) for Puppies and Adult Dogs

When you're frustrated with your dog about
potty training problems, he can tell!
By Michele Welton. Copyright 2000-2013
60

If owners could choose only one skill they wanted their dog to have, HOUSEBROKEN would
probably be the winner. Who amongst us is happy with a dog who's peeing or pooping in the
house?
Housebreaking problems are a chief complaint of dog owners who contact me for behavioral
consulting.
Here's what I tell dog owners who are looking for housebreaking advice:
There are two rules for housebreaking. Just two, but you have to get them both right. And I
mean 100% right, not 50% right. Otherwise you're going to end up with a dog who is 50%
housebroken, and who wants that?"
Here they are....my two rules for housebreaking
Rule #1. Confinement so your dog can't go to the bathroom in the wrong place.
Confinement means that until your dog is housebroken, he is never allowed to walk freely around
the house.
You can confine your dog in a crate, a pen, or by using baby gates to section off a small space
(mud room, laundry room, kitchen). He needs to stay in this space every minute of every hour of
every day unless you're sitting with him, playing with him or watching him play, walking him,
feeding him, grooming him, teaching him, or otherwise interacting with him.
This is a tough one for most people, I know. It is so tempting to just let the puppy loose to run and
play while you chat on the phone or answer email or watch the basketball game on TV. But if you
let a non-housebroken puppy (or adult dog) loose in the house when you're doing something else,
even if you think you're "watching" him, he can go to the bathroom on your floor and the bad
habit is begun. It's far better to prevent the accident than to catch him and correct him after the act.

Rule #2. Regular or constant access to the RIGHT place to go.
You must take your dog outside on a regular basis every few hours or else install a
doggy door for your dog to take himself outside at will, into a potty yard. Your third option is to
provide an indoor bathroom newspapers or (for very small dogs) a litter box.
Your dog must have SOMEWHERE to "go" when he needs to go. Otherwise he will "go" wherever
he happens to be at the time....and this won't be his fault.
Housebreaking success or failure is up to you
Some dogs are faster or slower than others to catch on to housebreaking, but ultimately it is
the ownerwho is responsible for housebreaking success or failure.
If you arrange things so that the only place your dog has a chance to "go" is where you want
him to go, that's the habit he will develop.
But if you give him too much freedom in the house, or if you don't give him quick access to a
bathroom when he needs to go, that's the habit he will develop.
Now, I've made it seem quick and easy to housebreak your puppy. Just two simple rules. One,
two, and done! Of course there's more to it than that. When do you relax your strict rules as Puppy
is beginning to catch on? And HOW do you relax them? You can't go from complete confinement
to complete freedom. Transitions matter a lot.
I can guide you through the transitions, as well as show you different techniques for crate training,
penning, newspapers, litter box, and doggy door. There's a right way and lots of wrong ways to
teach these housebreaking methods to your dog.
In my dog training book, Teach Your Dog 100 English Words, I'll show you the
right way to housebreak your dog. Also how often your dog needs to go to the bathroom, how to
go about letting your dog loose in the house, and how to deal with accidents. Follow my step-by-
step housebreaking advice and you will have a housebroken dog.
And one final note: housebreaking is far easier when your puppy respects you. My book shows
you how to get your puppy to respect you. With respect training, problems other than
housebreaking are avoided or easily overcome. To ensure success, housebreaking and respect
training should be taught at the same time.

Copyright 2000-2013 by Michele Welton. All rights reserved.
No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website,
or distributed in any way without the express permission of the author.
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Dog Training For Obedience - The Key To Raising A Well
Behaved Dog
Home
Go straight down to my list of Dog Obedience Training Commands
What Is Dog Training For Obedience Purposes?
I, like most of us dog owners believe that dog training for obedience is
an essential ingredient in any healthy human-dog
relationship. But what
exactly is dog obedience training, and why is it so important for you
and your dog?
Obedience training is a general term which can be achieved through
the many various dog training techniques (dog whispering, clicker
training, positive reinforcement, marker training, collar and leash,
reward training etc.). Regardless of which training technique you
choose to employ or which dog training schools you frequent, this is
what proper dog obedience training should accomplish:
1. Build or strengthen a close, healthy and appropriate
relationshipbetween you and your dog.
2. Opens up a clear line of communication between you and your dog. This includes you knowing what to
expect of your dog in all circumstances, and your dog clearly understanding and respecting what is
expected of him/her.
3. Dog Training for Obedience lays down a set of rules or boundarieswhich educates your dog to become a
responsible member of society. Including how to relate to other dogs, animals and people, basic manners
and how to behave in any situation.
4. Establishes the groundwork which assists in preventing the development of unacceptable problem
behavior - such as jumping up,barking, chewing, digging etc.
The Benefits Of Dog Training For Obedience
Dog training for obedience is the very best thing you can do for the relationship you enjoy with your dog, this is
why:
Basic obedience training makes life simple to your dog and eliminates confusion. Your dog will know his
place in the world and understand right from wrong. Dogs seem to really appreciate and thrive on this black
and white view of the world.
Fun and rewarding for both you and your dog - for me, this is what it's all about!
You'll have a happy, relaxed and confident dog who you
can take anywhere and will be a pleasure to be around.
Greater freedom can also be extended to your dog, as he'll
be more trustworthy when obedience trained.
An obedience trained puppy or dog is a much safer dog. If
your dog dashes out the front door you will still have voice
control over him. You will be able to call on one of your
obedience training commands such as "come" "down", "sit" or
"go to your spot". This is very reassuring for any dog lover.
You gain trust and mutual respect with your dog. He
understands what is expected of him and knows that you will
always be fair and consistent with this.
When your dog is trained in obedience he will be fine around
family, friends and kids under supervision.
Dog obedience training fulfills some crucial needs in your dog's lifeincluding exercise, mental stimulation,
spending time with you and providing your dog with a "job".
Dog training for obedience greatly reduces the risk of being locked in a dominance struggle with your
dog. You'll be his strong and always fair leader, who he'll respect and look to for guidance.
Obedience training is a step by step process which you build upon over time. It creates a solid
foundation for your dog to learn additional skills and training commands. Throughout this process your dog
will be gaining confidence along the way.
The Danger In Not Giving
Dog Training For Obedience
It's an unfortunate reality that untrained dogs are the major cause for puppies and dogs ending up in
animal shelters all over the world. This is good for nobody, especially the poor dogs.
Your dog can't ever be really close with you and your family. By this I mean that your dog won't be
involved in family outings, instead spending much of his time alone in the yard. This can bring on
numerous behavioral problems and can be a real pest for you, and even your neighbours.
Your dog will be more unsafe around people, other animals and on the roads.
It is a common trait for untrained dogs to challenge your leadership or authority. Obedience trained dogs
will also try to test you out in this manner. But when you are proficient in obedience training you'll have the
tools to deal with it.
Constantly (but not effectively) your dog will be yelled at and pushed further away from his pack (you and
your family). This is no way for you and your dog to live, and is totally avoidable with some simple
obedience training.
General Rules For Effective
Dog Obedience Training
You'll find proven training techniques for specific obedience commands by selecting from the list below. These
are some general tips to keep in mind that hold true in any dog training for obedience situation:
Praise and reward your dog when he does what you ask of him, give anappropriate correction when he
doesn't do what he has been taught to do. The key is to find the right balance for your dog.
Don't expect your dog to just know this stuff straight away. Repetition of the command and the action is
crucial. Believe in what you are doing and stick to it.
Always be consistent (this includes everybody who lives with your dog), make it easy for your dog. Give him
a simple decision to make and make it clear to him which choice is acceptable and which choice is
unacceptable - provide instant feedback.
Never correct or punish your dog for not doing something he has notbeen properly taught to do - be realistic
and fair.
Make your training sessions short, sharp and fun - for you and your dog. This is where many dog training
schools fall down.
Take it slow, master one easy command to start with then move on and build upon it. Continue to mentally
challenge and stimulate your dog throughout the training process.
You're the best person to perform these tasks with your dog. Your dog has to live with you, you are his
pack and you must be the person he looks to for leadership and who he respects.
Test or proof the obedience commands in different situations, places and with added distractions.
Incorporate obedience training into your daily routine - your dog could perform a "sit" before you give him
his dinner, or a "down stay" when you go get the mail.
Never try to correct your dog if you don't catch him in the act of doing wrong, timing your correction is all
important. A late correction only confuses your dog and doesn't make any sense to him.
Find out what motivates your dog, this will be an important tool in your training sessions. My dogs love
cheese, liver treats and a throw of the ball.
Work with the natural drives and instincts of your dog - this is explained further within the articles below.
Dog Obedience Training Commands
1. Sit! 2. Down
3. Come / Recall 4. Leash Training
5. Stay 6. Heeling
7. Go To Your Spot! 8. Leave It!
9. The Stand Command 10. Fetch or Retrieve
If you can't get to any dog training schools and are looking to gain a greater appreciation of how your dog
thinks, solve behavioral problems and teach obedience commands I recommend this home based Dog
Obedience Training Package.

Some other pages you may be interested in:
Basic dog obedience tips - from pup to adult .
Were you looking to correct your dogs problem behavior?
What are you feeding your dog - what is the best dog food?
Do you want a family watch dog? Guard dog training and selection.
Lead training - what you need to know.
Training Trends and Theories - Some Interesting Info .


Go from Dog Training For Obedience to How To Train A Dog home page.
Puppy House Training | House Train Your Dog The Right Way | Potty Training Puppy (Dog Training Central)
Top 10 Most Expensive Dog Breeds (Dog Training Central)
How To Train A Dog, dog training tips and techniques for home based dog trainers (Dog Training Central)
7 Signs You Shouldn't Get a Dog (Vetstreet)
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Stop Dog Chewing Dog Behavior Training
Home
Every dog owner will be required to stop dog chewing problems at some stage.
When our puppies and dogs chew it is a perfectly acceptable and natural behavior
for them. The real problem arises when they chew on inappropriate, dangerous or
expensive items.
Dogs chew on just about anything they can wrap their mouths around. My dog's favorite chewing objects are
socks, shoes, furniture and my Whippet, Pocky actually chewed a large whole in the side of our house!
What Causes Dogs To Chew?
Through loneliness or boredom.
Separation anxiety, this form of chewing often occurs if you work long hours away from home.
When they are teething (this can be a very trying time for owners).
Through fear or a phobia.
Seeking attention.
Through anticipation, some dogs chew just before their owner is due to arrive home.
It's important that we stop our dogs chewing not only because it frustrates us, but also because it can be very
dangerous for our dogs. If your dog chews into electric wires, poisons and any number of other objects they
could be in serious danger. Having said this it should also be noted that chewing on appropriate items offers
many benefits to the health and wellbeing of your dog.
Dog Chewing - Prevention Is Your Best Option!
As with most dog behavior problems it is far easier to prevent chewing problems from arising rather than
trying to extinguish an established chewing habit. Try these simple steps to help manage your dog's chewing:
1. Puppy proof your home - take away the temptation!
2. Provide your dog with a few tasty chew toys. Make it perfectly clear to your dog that if he/she needs to
chew, it must be on the chew toys. It's a good idea to toss a dog toy stuffed with some tasty treats to
your dog as you leave for work each morning.
3. Keep your dog in a safe and confined area while you are away from home. This could be a dog crate,
kennel run or any secure room in your house. Of course you should provide a few chew toys in this area
and ensure that there are no dangerous objects present.
4. Provide your dog with lots of exercise, both physical and mental when you are at home
(games, obedience training, tricks...)
How To Stop Dog Chewing Problems
Always keep in mind that your dog can't tell the difference between a$200 pair of shoe's and a worthless old rag.
And your dog is not chewing to spite you, dogs don't think like us humans.
1. If your dog has a particular liking for a certain object like a furniture
leg you can try this method. Coat the object with a foul tasting
substance (non toxic) such as bitter apple, cayenne pepper or
tabasco sauce.
This method can be effective but because it doesn't actually teach
your dog to stop chewing, it may mean that your dog simply chews
on a different object. Of course, if you put some tasty treats in the
area, the chewing behavior will hopefully shift straight over to these.
2. If you catch your dog in the act of chewing, give a firm "No!" and
replace the inappropriate chewing object with a tasty chew toy. Give
your dog praise when he starts chewing the toy. Never ever reprimand your dog if you don't actually
catch him in the act of chewing. If you don't issue your correction within about two seconds of his
inappropriate chewing behavior, he won't have a clue what you are disciplining him for.
3. A good solution to stop dog chewing and any other dog behavior problems is to apply some obedience
training. This establishes you as the firm but fair leader in your owner-dog relationship. It will also help to
build a strong bond between you and your dog, based on trust, two way communication and mutual
respect. To learn how to properly obedience train your dog at home visit dogproblems.com. This is a
fantastic community of positive, reward based dog trainers.
4. Teach your dog the "Leave It" obedience training command.

In order to control your dog's annoying chewing habit all you need to do is consistently follow the above training
methods. Add a touch ofcommon sense and patience and you will be well on your way to stopping your dogs
chewing problem.

Some other pages you may be interested in:
Are you feeding your dog toxic dog food - Which Dog Food Is The Best?
Puppy training tips and techniques - How To Train A Puppy
Learn how to put a stop to Puppy Mouthing and Biting.
Buenos Aires Zoo White Tiger Triplets (Latino News Today)
10 Simple Tips To Have Your Dog Follow Commands (Dog Training Central)
Stop Your Dog Jumping Up On People | Dog Jumping Problems Are Dangerous (Dog Training Central)
Top 10 Dog Breeds that Don't Shed (Dog Training Central)
Recommended by
Please consult the services of a Professional Dog Trainer, Behaviorist or Veterinarian before implementing any of the advice contained on this site.

DOG TRAINING
BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS
DOG OBEDIENCE
CLICKER TRAINING
DOG WHISPERING
COOL DOG TRICKS
DOG TRAINING BOOKS
DOG TRAINING FORUM
DOG TRAINING NEWS
DOGS AND OBEDIENCE CLASSES
BASIC TIPS FOR DOG TRAINING
DOG HEALTH
DOG HEALTH CARE
DOG GROOMING
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TOP 10
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10 Dog Breeds for Children
Discover what the Top 10 dog breeds for children are!
READ MORE
10 Dogs that don't shed
According to the AKC, these are the top 10 non-shedding dogs...
READ MORE
10 Most Popular Dog Breeds
Every year, the AKC ranks what the 10 most popular dog breeds are...
READ MORE
10 Most Expensive Breeds
Some dog breeds are more expensive than others...
READ MORE
10 Smartest Dog Breeds
Some dogs are smarter than others - but which are the smartest?
READ MORE
Top Ten Dog Breeds For An Apartment
Do you live in small quarters? Then this is the list for you!
READ MORE
EDITOR'S PICKS

TOP 10 DOG BREEDS FOR CHILDREN

HOW TO STOP PUPPY BITING

CRATE TRAINING INTRODUCTION

SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS

STOP DOG BARKING

STOP DOG CHEWING PROBLEMS

HOW TO STOP DOGS FROM DIGGING

DON'T THAT DON'T SHED

DOG TRAINING INFOGRAPHIC

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Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: Archangel1469 Post Time: 01-29-2014 at 12:54 AM
Need help with sudden and sporadic aggression between our males.
Forum: Behavioral Issues Posted By: Archangel1469 Post Time: 01-29-2014 at 01:13 AM
mybugaboo2009@gmail.com
Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: mybugaboo2009 Post Time: 02-10-2014 at 12:46 PM
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How to be the Leader of the Pack
Home
Dogs are trained when they are first born by their mother when they can play, how far they can travel by the
mother picking them up by the back of their neck and moving them to a safe place, and waiting for their food.
You as your adult dogs pack leader have to instill these boundaries, limitations and rules, without being nervous
or emotional. How your dog interacts with his surroundings depends on you as the pack leader to use energy
that is calm and assertive.
Dogs think like humans in certain areas and not in others. Without knowing it we show negative behavior. Dogs
are known to live in the present. Dogs can be eased back to being a calm and loving pet even after they have
suffered abuse or a difficult start to their life. If you as the pack leader show emotions of pity or guilt your dog will
see that you are weak. Affection can be expressed not only by being touched they can see it in a look.
Dogs progress through low and reaching a complete frenzy of excitement. To prevent your dog from getting out
of control this problem should be addressed as soon as it begins so it never reaches to uncontrollable
proportions.
You must act like a pack leader on a consistent basis so your dog will feel happy and content in knowing their
place in the pack. Your dog will become frustrated if you allow him to be the leader in your home, but when you
take him for a walk you want to be the leader.
Showing that you are aggressive is not the same as being assertive. Speaking in a firm tone is important and not
using a voice as you would to talk to a baby. Never use an angry or high pitched voice or one that is like asking
a question. If you know your dog is deliberately ignoring you when you give him a command you should stop, it
is only making it worse. Being calm and firm in your tone of voice and not waving your hands is calm
assertiveness.
It is not physical power, strength or a bigger dog to be a pack leader it is known that small dogs with an attitude
also want to dominate their owner.
Dogs need to be walked on a daily basis, as dogs in a pack in nature walk a lot. Your dog can have behavior
problems and be frustrated if he is not walked a lot. Walking your dog lets him know that you are the leader and
it is very important for him to exercise. As you walk out the door lead your dog out, he must walk behind you. If
before you leave he jumps ahead of you, bring him in and try again, blocking him so he cant leave first. During
the walk your dog should walk next to you and be calm. Dogs can read body language and sense your state of
mind, so you should walk with your shoulders back, chest out and head up and he will know that you are the
leader.
Your dog will have more positive behavior that you can reinforce as you put in clear leadership rolls and become
the alpha. This relationship will be free of frustration and be fulfilling. Being confident, having silent dominance,
resource control and able to give direction and the ability to follow through is how Leadership is obtained. Your
dog will be content, free, happy and willing to be a follower when he knows that you are the pack leader.
Photo credit: revolution cycle/Wikimedia
Training A Puppy To Walk On A Leash - Loose Leash Walking For Young Puppies (Dog Training Central)
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Training A Puppy To Walk On A Leash
Home
One of the first things you need to teach your young puppy is how to behave on a leash. It is a crucial skill to
master for both you and your dog's future. After training a puppy to walk on a leash they are much safer and
more manageable, plus it means walkies is an experience you can both look
forward to and enjoy.
The fact that you are reading this article Training a Puppy to Walk on a
Leash probably means that you have a young puppy who needs to be leash trained.
This is a great position to be in, as it is much easier to train a puppy the right way
to walk on a leash, rather than trying to re-train an older dog.
If you follow the steps outlined below you should have your puppy leash trained
within a couple of weeks. When my Dalmation, Harrison was a young pup we used
these steps to have him leash trained in three days. If it takes you and your dog a little
longer, don't panic, it will be worth it in the end.
Don't just expect your puppy to know this stuff! Your goal is to clearly
communicate to your dog, what is acceptable behavior on the leash, and what is not.
Please be aware that everybody who takes your puppy for an on leash walk must
convey a consistent message or set of rules to your dog.


How To Train Your Puppy
To Walk On A Leash
Step 1
This first step can begin as soon as your puppy arrives at his new home. All it involves is getting your young
pup familiar with and comfortable wearing a collar. A simple light weight leather collar is ideal for this task.
Place it on your puppy when you feed him or as you are playing, this provides a bit of a distraction from the
collar. He'll probably roll around trying to dislodge it, or try his best to scratch it off. When he is doing this
it is important that you don't take it off him. Wait till he has settled down and forgotten about it before you take it
off.
Step 2
Once your puppy is happy wearing his new collar, it is time to introduce the leash. Same thing again here, you
just want to get him comfortable with the leash, and to show him the leash is not to be feared. Any light
weight, thin leash is fine for this step. You can buy your puppy a fancy leather leash after he is properly leash
trained if you choose. All you need to do is clip the leash onto his collar, let him check it out and drag it around
the house (always under your supervision). He'll forget about it after a while.
Step 3
Now that your puppy is comfortable in his collar and with the leash, it is time to pick
up the other end of the leash. Make these first leash training sessions short, sharp
and fun. At this early stage you will probably find that your puppy loves to follow you
around everywhere - use this to your advantage.
To start with just walk around the house with the leash in hand, and your puppy
trotting along side you. When he is walking along on a loose leash give him plenty of
praise, petting and even some treats. When he strains on the leash, stop
immediately. Don't yank him back over to you with the leash, just call him back
over to you and praise him when he comes. Never ever keep walking when your
puppy is pulling on the leash, this only rewards his behavior and reinforces the
habit.
Your puppy has to learn that when he pulls on the leash, he gets nowhere. If he wants
to continue walking, it has to be by your side on a loose leash. The same rule applies if your puppy sits down
when you are walking. Don't yank him forward towards you, just call him over and reward him when he arrives.
Then set off walking again with your puppy by your side.

This method of training a puppy to walk on a leash is suited to very young puppies, it requires no pulling from
you or your dog. The result is a nice loose leash hanging down between you and your dog. All it takes to
achieve this is to follow the above steps, then apply some patience and persistence. Please read this article
for leash training older dogs. You can also teach your puppy or older dog to walk on a loose leash using a
clicker - loose leash walking.
Some Useful Tips To Follow When Teaching
Your Puppy To Walk On A Loose Leash


Some Leash Walking Tips from a Leading Professional Dog Trainer:
Leash Walking Tips
Leash walking tips. Learn why your dog pulls and how to stop it. Learn how to teach your dog to walk politely by
your side. more...
VIDEO-Establishing Yourself As The Alpha
VIDEO-Learn how to use non-physical techniques to establish yourself as the leader in your dog's
eyes.more...


Go from Training A Puppy To Walk On A Leash
to Dog Training Techniques home page.
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Recommended by
Please consult the services of a Professional Dog Trainer, Behaviorist or Veterinarian before implementing any of the advice contained on this site.

DOG TRAINING
BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS
DOG OBEDIENCE
CLICKER TRAINING
DOG WHISPERING
COOL DOG TRICKS
DOG TRAINING BOOKS
DOG TRAINING FORUM
DOG TRAINING NEWS
DOGS AND OBEDIENCE CLASSES
BASIC TIPS FOR DOG TRAINING
DOG HEALTH
DOG HEALTH CARE
DOG GROOMING
BEST DOG FOOD

RECEIVE FREE EBOOKS AND RESOURCES FROM WORLD LEADING DOG TRAINERS
First Name: Email:
Subscribe

Hot Content
TOP 10
POPULAR
10 Dog Breeds for Children
Discover what the Top 10 dog breeds for children are!
READ MORE
10 Dogs that don't shed
According to the AKC, these are the top 10 non-shedding dogs...
READ MORE
10 Most Popular Dog Breeds
Every year, the AKC ranks what the 10 most popular dog breeds are...
READ MORE
10 Most Expensive Breeds
Some dog breeds are more expensive than others...
READ MORE
10 Smartest Dog Breeds
Some dogs are smarter than others - but which are the smartest?
READ MORE
Top Ten Dog Breeds For An Apartment
Do you live in small quarters? Then this is the list for you!
READ MORE
EDITOR'S PICKS

TOP 10 DOG BREEDS FOR CHILDREN

HOW TO STOP PUPPY BITING

CRATE TRAINING INTRODUCTION

SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS

STOP DOG BARKING

STOP DOG CHEWING PROBLEMS

HOW TO STOP DOGS FROM DIGGING

DON'T THAT DON'T SHED

DOG TRAINING INFOGRAPHIC

RECENTLY MADE POSTS
Hello from Central florida
Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: Archangel1469 Post Time: 01-29-2014 at 12:54 AM
Need help with sudden and sporadic aggression between our males.
Forum: Behavioral Issues Posted By: Archangel1469 Post Time: 01-29-2014 at 01:13 AM
mybugaboo2009@gmail.com
Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: mybugaboo2009 Post Time: 02-10-2014 at 12:46 PM
mybugaboo2009@gmail.com
Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: mybugaboo2009 Post Time: 02-10-2014 at 12:57 PM
mybugaboo2009@gmail.com
Forum: Introduce Yourself Posted By: mybugaboo2009 Post Time: 02-10-2014 at 01:20 PM
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