Puppy Dog Training - The Main Differences Between Dog and Puppy Training

Puppy dog training is one of the most rewarding things that I have ever done. In this post I want to highlight the main differences between dog training and puppy dog training.

The first thing to be aware of is that you should start training immediately you get your puppy home. You should collect him in the morning and stay with him all day. Consistency is very important to avoid having a very confused puppy so only one person should be doing the training using the same commands for the same actions.

If you intend to use a crate or kennel now is the time to introduce it to your puppy. Remember that it should be seen by him as a refuge to get away from the bustle of life outside it. He should be encouraged, not forced, to go into his kennel. Most importantly, the kennel should be just large enough for him to stand up, turn round and lie down. Anything larger and he might decide to poop in the corner. Please see my post on 'Dog Crate Training' for more information.

Patience is the keyword here, never get annoyed or show annoyance to your puppy. All your puppy wants to do is please his pack leader (that's you!) so if he doesn't do what you want him to do it is not his fault. In fact his main motivation is to make you happy

Training sessions should not last more than 5 minutes which is about your pup's attention span. It is best not to have a training session just after your puppy has eaten because he is probably tired and just wants a nap.

Concentrate first on the six basic commands: Heel, Come, Sit, Stand, Stay and down. Go at your puppy's pace not your own. Anything that he does right should be immediately praised with a treat, a pat or verbally. Treats should be easy to eat and irresistible tasty to your puppy. Dog biscuits take too long to chew so bits of cheese or sausage are good.

Toilet training is one of the most important things to cover in your puppy dog training regime. You should take your puppy outside every couple of hours and walk around with him until he obliges. Then you should go over the top in praising him so he is left in no doubt that you are pleased with what he has done. If you find that he has had a little 'accident' indoors do not chastise him but perhaps let him see you take it outside. If you catch him in the act or about to poop indoors then just calmly take him outside. Some owners like to lay a newspaper on the floor indoors and encourage their puppy to poop on it and then they gradually move it to the door and outside.

Go to my dog training blog to get free instant access to the Secrets to Dog Training 6 Day Dog Behavior and Training course at http://www.TrainMyOwnDog.com. As well as puppy dog training You will find other articles covering all aspects of dog training there.