Complete Puppy Training

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You might think you are the head of your household, but really, is your dog leader of the pack?

One of the first and most important steps in dog training is to get the respect and confidence of your dog.

Remember, dogs are pack animals and in their mind there must always be a leader of the pack. You need to be that leader without a doubt.

Once your dog sees you as the leader, you will gain the respect and confidence of your dog. And doing this will make dog training a whole lot easier and a more pleasurable experience.

Failure to gain the respect of your dog will result in a disobedient animal, as it is only the lead dog they will look to for direction. While most new puppy owners love to give their animal love and affection, they also need to be aware that leadership and respect are also very important. And the sooner you gain their respect, the more enjoyable life will be for both you and your dog, and the sooner and easier it will be to fully train your dog.

Here are some ways to be the leader:

• Don't allow your dog to walk ahead of you on walks.
• Don't let her walk through a doorway or out of a room in front of you.
• Let your dog know what you expect of her. It's best to be black and white with what's
  okay and not okay so she doesn't get confused.
• Do not allow the dog to "guard" her food or get away with growling or other dominant
  behavior.
• If your dog is making a play for the leadership position, do not lower your body to her
  level. If you bring your face to a lower position than your dog's, it is seen as submissive
  behavior.

If you're consistent and fair and act like the head of the house, you won't wonder any longer if your dog is actually the leader of the pack.

For more puppy tips check out our e-book: Complete Puppy Handbook.

If you've ever had children, you know that they need to be "doing" something all the time. If they don't entertain themselves, they expect you to do it. If they don't have anything to do, they find trouble.

Dogs are a lot like children. They need stimulation or they get bored, especially puppies.

Bored dogs are generally unhappy dogs and they are also the dogs that are most likely to get into trouble with other animals and humans.

The happiest dogs are often the working dogs as they not only have a purpose in life but they also get the praise and regular attention of their owners.

While it's not possible or practical for most people to have contact with their dog throughout the day, due to work and other commitments, a dog will always be a lot happier if it knows that at the end of each day, he will get the opportunity to go for a walk in the park. Dogs love to be taken for walks or a run. They get to look at different environments and interact with strangers and other dogs. This social interaction is very important for the overall well being of your dog and it is something that needs to be done on a regular basis.

Bored dogs need jobs to do, just like working dogs. They don't like to just exist; they need to have challenges to overcome and actions to take. People are the same way. No one is happy spending all day, every day, napping.

Start with getting your dog some toys of his own to play with. This can be fun for him, but more importantly you're getting the dog involved in something and it will have a positive effect on his mental state and happiness.

Consider toys that you can hide a treat inside and they have to work at them to get the treat out. While you may think it would be frustrating, dogs love the challenge. Hiding a dog biscuit inside a Kong is one example.

I absolutely don't recommend doing this, but my dog loves empty water bottles. She thinks it's her "job" to get the lid off as well as the label off the front. She then leaves the 3 parts in a prominent place so we will notice her successfully completed task.

Another good idea is to involve your dog in training. Even if he has the basics mastered, he would appreciate learning some new skills. Many high energy dogs relish learning to run through an obstacle course. This stimulates their brains and works off some energy. No more bored dog!

There are many things you should consider about getting a puppy before you start worrying about house training your puppy. Even though your kids want a puppy and all your neighbors have dogs, you have some serious things to consider. After all, you want this to be a positive experience not a 4-footed nightmare you're going to give to the animal shelter down the road.

Here are 5 things you need to know before you commit to buying a dog:

1. Puppies need a lot of time and attention.

Having a puppy is like having a 2-year-old. Until they are trained, they require almost constant supervision. After they are trained, they still require supervision until they are older... much older. If you can't be with them all day, you may want to consider having two dogs (and keep them kenneled safely outside while you are away from home.) Or you can even check out puppy day care centers to see what they're all about.

2. Puppies need training, and so do your children.

Many people give up their dogs because they have behavior problems - such as barking constantly or not becoming fully house broken. The owners didn't realize that puppies need training, or didn't make a consistent effort to train the puppy.

Dogs are not independent, like cats, and need to be taught proper behavior. Consider enrolling puppy in training classes or learn how to train the puppy yourself. If you have children, they need to take the classes with the puppy so they can learn how to interact with the new family pet. Failing at house training your puppy is not an option.

3. Puppies can cost you money.

Ok - this isn't unreasonable, but you need to be prepared to add your puppy into your budget. You will have many expenses, especially when you first get your new puppy. They need toys, bones, shots, registrations with the state, and don't forget the food, dog houses, collars, clothes (no really - it's a big business - you'll be tempted!) vet bills, and training.

Dogs are one of the most expensive pets around. Most puppies are part of the family - and will cost you like part of the family. Don't go into this venture thinking they're cheap.

4. Puppies grow into big dogs.

I know it's obvious - but you need to be sure you know how big your dog will be. If you have young children, your puppy may outweigh them within 6 months. Do the research so you know how big your cute little puppy will be when he's a dog, and whether your home and yard can accommodate that size.

5. Dogs need exercise.

And people need exercise - so this can actually be an advantage if handled properly. Puppies need room to run and play. They need to need toys to play with, but they also need people to play with. If you lead a very sedentary lifestyle, be sure you pick a dog breed that is low activity.

The larger the dog, the more room and exercise they need. You will probably need to walk your dog several times a week. Be sure and plan that into your schedule now - or you may find your puppy running around the house all day getting into mischief when he could be taking a nap after playing with you.

Owning a dog can be a very rewarding experience - even if this is your first puppy. But there are things to consider before you even consider house training your puppy. Your dog will become one of the family and be a faithful companion for life. Be prepared for your new puppy, and it will be a great adventure for both of you.