Dog owners will tell you that their entire existence with their dog was a pleasure beyond words, from the moment they first picked them up, taking them to doggie daycare, all the long walks, the play times, the fun, and the endless love and loyalty, these are all part of the joy of owning a dog.
A term that is often used about owning a dog is “dog training”, but for those who are dog training experts, the term should be “human training” as it is most often what humans do that has the biggest influence on how a dog behaves.
For example, a dog owner who pulls the leash tight and crosses the street whenever another dog approaches, is sending signals to their dog that something is wrong. In turn, the dog picks up on those signals and perceives other dogs to be a threat. This can lead to them barking at, growling at, or even attacking other dogs without provocation.
In that scenario, it is not the dog that is at fault despite what it might seem. It is the actions and behaviour of their owner that has taught the dog that other dogs are to be avoided and if that means barking or growling at them, that is instinctively what a dog will do. This emphasises how much influence owners have on their dog’s behaviour and its general emotional and psychological state.
One way to have a well-balanced dog from the start is to gain their absolute trust, and that begins by bonding with them when they are a puppy. Bonding with a puppy so that it sees you as the “pack leader” and someone who it can trust at all times is a huge step toward having a dog that behaves well in all circumstances. Below are seven ways that you can bond and build trust with a new puppy from the moment you first meet them.
Be Patient: The greatest trait you can have when trying to teach a puppy is patience. Of course, you want them to progress quickly but also accept there will be mistakes and setbacks.
Get Your Puppy Into A Routine: The sooner your puppy realises there is a routine with times for feeding, walks, playing, and bedtime, the more settled they will become.
Teach Your Puppy The Boundaries: Quickly teach your puppy what the boundaries are. By boundaries we mean not scratching at doors, not becoming over-excited when being fed, nor barking for no reason, for example.
Be Consistent: You and your family must teach your puppy consistently. For example, you letting them come up to lie on the sofa one night, but your partner telling them they cannot the next night only breeds confusion in your puppy’s mind.
Use Praise For Good Behaviour Rather Than Scolding For Bad Behaviour: Wherever possible try to catch your dog behaving well and praise it for doing so, rather than catching them misbehaving and shouting at them. The former always works best.
Create Their Own Space: Despite it seeming to have boundless energy, a puppy needs its quiet moments too. For this, it should have its own little space such as a bed or cushion where it can go to lie down and relax.
Play With Them Often: For puppies, playing is about more than fun. They can learn so much from playing including knowing you are in charge and thus following your commands whilst they play.