COVID Puppies became a fast 2020 trend as the world was forced to work from home. While it was an adjustment for many people it started a pandemic of its own as dogs were being adopted from shelters and rescues left and right. However, the stay-at-home orders, caused many owners to train their dogs on their own. Although many made it through without bad behavior issues we are now seeing pandemic puppies as a training community comes out with separation anxiety, lack of socialization with other dogs and people, and limited training. Which now causes them issues when heading into public with their owners. That is why it is important for A Puppy’s first Training Session to be successful.
A Puppies First Training Session
Attention or the Focus Cue is a simple way to start building your dog’s training up. In Simpler terms when you call your dog’s name they should look at you. You can teach this through The Name Game.
Puppy Disinterested in Treats?
They may still be adjusting to their new environment. Allow 4-6 Weeks of adjustment time for your dog before diving too deep into training. You can incorporate their favorite toy or higher value treats into the training to find what drives your dog to work. Also using their kibble for training is also a great way to make mealtime fun and engaging for them.
Over Excited Puppy?
Slow down your training and break it down for them. Try taking them to the potty? Lastly, I would suggest introducing an enrichment toy like a puzzle toy or a ball filled with kibble, Work their minds and try training later.
Reserved or Timid Puppy with Handling:
Work on positive body handling with lots of breaks and treats
Touch/Targeting to set up other behaviors
AVOID impulse control & Leave it Games
A Puppies first Training Session is key to their success.
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