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When Should You Start Training a Puppy?

t is never too soon to start training a puppy, however give your puppy as much freedom as possible until he is about 4 to 6 months of age. That does not include running amok in public places. Always keep a lead and collar on your puppy in public places where there is danger from road traffic and so on. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies to your country.

Also be careful in parks if there are older dogs loose as they may attack a crazy pup they think is infringing in their territory. A boisterous young pup of a larger breed can also harm very young children or frail elderly people by jumping on them excitedly. Always keep your pup in sight when he's off a lead.

Plenty of exercise and fresh air is essential for a fast growing young puppy. He needs the exercise to strengthen his bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs. Being in public places also allows him to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general.

He should be exercised daily if possible, with a side benefit being that he will sleep well and not get bored, which is the main cause of bad habits and destructive behavior seen in so many young dogs today. Another thing it prevents is shyness, which is primarily caused by isolation as a pup, although shyness is also a trait that can be inherited.

Starting Basic Puppy Training

You can start training a puppy from about 4 to 6 months of age. It is possible to train older dogs, but it's a lot harder. Don’t overdo these exercises, 10 minutes a day is adequate. You'll find that your puppy tires fairly quickly, and a tired pup won't learn anything.

Be regular in your training sessions, taking him out at about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session, and the pup will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.

Teaching a Puppy to Heel

Walk at a steady pace with your puppy on a firm fitting collar and lead. Have him on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL. Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your pup pulls away or gets distracted, just keep walking, he'll soon get the message and follow along.

If you don't stop, he'll have to follow. As he follows you after a distraction, pat him saying GOOD DOG or GOOD BOY or GIRL. If he tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When he obeys, give him a pat and praise him and he'll soon get the message.

Teaching a Puppy to Sit

Once your puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach him to sit. With him walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on his back end with your left hand. He will have no choice but to sit.

While lifting with the collar takes weight off his front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing him down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising him each time he sits. Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times in a 10 minute walk.