February 2022

Why training is important for you and your dog .

The first month of the year has flown by already. We are all so busy trying to be as normal as possible while spending time with our new pets too. It is crazy to think how, in the next few weeks the weather will be getting a bit warmer and brighter (fingers crossed), and not so dull in the mornings. This month we are looking at 'training your dog,' We all know how important it is to train a new puppy, but if you have an older dog you can train and teach them new things just the same. Training a puppy has many benefits and training an older dog is also important too, including a stronger bond between you both.

I'm sure we are all aware of the research needed before purchasing a new puppy. However no amount of reading will help with a puppy’s behaviour as each pup has their own personality, and are all different to one another (ask the crazy dog owners with three completely different personalities). All the research in the world won’t prepare you for the mischief they can get up to, and how you may feel like ripping your hair out from time to time. A puppy can cause all sorts of trouble through a lack of understanding of why they are wrong and why they are being told off.

So it is important to teach your new pup right from wrong. There are a lot of pros to puppy training including:-

• Stronger bond

• Basic commands

• Puppy socialisation

• Parent education

• You can connect with other dog owners

To our new pups we are their everything. We are already spending some quality time with them while they are getting used to their new surroundings and new routines. Training your pup can create a bond between you both and have some fun along the way, whether you are attending classes or not. It helps both you and your pup get to know and understand each other better. Like any relationship, a bond is something we work on and this is the same with your new pup. A certain amount of work is required to keep your relationship healthy and strong.

Basic commands for a puppy can help with keeping your dog under control, and help your dog feel a sense of structure and order. Basic commands for your puppy can be anything from sit, stay to coming when recalled. These are all important and can help your pup with the simplest of daily tasks and situations that they may encounter. Establishing a strong connection between you and your pup is essential and training your pup with positive techniques is a good way to build trust and respect.

Bringing a new puppy home is fun for all the family, but we don’t think of how this can effect our new pup. Taking your pup to training classes helps to socialise your pup so when you are out walking, they will be confident and feel safe around strange dogs. Without puppy training dogs can develop aggression issues or skittish behaviour towards other dogs in the future. Socialising your puppy at puppy training is less intimidating for your pup and helps to run off energy extra energy by playing with other pups of their age. Having a trainer around for any questions can help new owners feel safe and confident while their pup is happy playing.

As with most animals, there are things we need to do on a regular basis like flea and worming treatment. Attending puppy training is not just for your pup. You can gain knowledge about flea prevention, worming, the right foods and more. Plus you can ask questions about your pup's health or any other niggles you may have. In addition, it also gives you the opportunity to talk to new puppy owners and hear about their experiences too.

We all love the thought of socialising with our new pup and showing them off to people as we walk them along the beach or around the parks. Other dog owners or even just some passers-by may interact with you asking about your pup. This is a good chance to connect with other dog owners, enquiring about the best food for your pup, the vets they found the best or even the best dog friendly cafes. Some dog owners have had dogs for as long as they can remember and can give you valuable information, sometimes to a greater degree than what you read in a book or online.

You can find local puppy/dog trainers in your area on Google and also on Facebook. Never forget to ask the people who own dogs already. The dog walking community can be friendly and approachable and advise on which puppy/dog trainer they would recommend. We all want what's best for our new pup, so giving them the best start in life with you is something that you will both be forever thankful for. You will both learn and get to know each other and we truly hope you enjoy building that unbreakable and everlasting bond.