Bringing a puppy into your life is an exciting adventure, but it’s also a serious responsibility. What you do in the first few months of your puppy’s life can shape their future behavior, confidence, and overall happiness. As a balanced dog trainer, I’ve helped countless dog owners turn their unruly pups into well-behaved, confident companions. Here’s my ultimate guide to puppy ownership and success, filled with actionable tips and essential tools (including some of my favorite recommendations!).
1. Start Training Early
Your puppy is learning from the moment they step into your home. Start with basic commands like crate training, sit, down, and come. Short, fun sessions multiple times a day are best. Use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors and teach them that good things happen when they listen to you. You can take the food portion you feed your dog and use it during training sessions, so you don’t have to worry about overdoing it on treats. A training leash is your best friend. It gives you control and ensures your puppy doesn’t develop bad habits like ignoring you or running off. Check out this durable training leash here.
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2. Use a Leash for Control
Even inside your home while supervised, keep your puppy on a leash during the early days. This helps you guide them, prevent accidents, and stop them from wandering and chewing things they shouldn’t. With a leash, you’re in charge, and your puppy learns to follow your lead.
3. Master the Art of Socialization
Socialization isn’t just about exposing your puppy to other dogs. It’s about creating positive experiences with new people, environments, textures, sounds, and objects all while making yourself valuable. Always supervise interactions to ensure they’re safe and controlled. A bad experience can be worse than no experience at all. And know this, waiting until your puppy's vaccination schedule is finished before getting them out into the world is a huge mistake. Avoid dog parks, pet stores and heavily trafficked dog areas. But please take on walks around the neighborhood and dont let them eat poop! In all my years socializing puppies I have NEVER had a sick puppy.
4. Provide Mental Stimulation
A bored puppy is a destructive puppy. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, and games like hide-and-seek are great ways to engage their mind and tire them out. Make this a part of your daily routine with your puppy.
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5. Crate Training
A crate provides your puppy with a safe, den-like space to relax. It’s also invaluable for house training. Make the crate a positive place by feeding your puppy inside and giving them treats for going in. Use it frequently throughout the day, not just for night time and when you leave the house.
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6. Establish a Routine
Puppies thrive on consistency. A predictable schedule for meals, potty breaks, playtime, and training sets them up for success. Consistency builds trust and helps your puppy understand what’s expected of them. Do your best to intentionally tire them out and then put them in the crate to relax, or have them on a leash and relax under your supervision.
7. Teach Calmness
Teaching your puppy to settle on a place bed is a game-changer. It helps with impulse control and gives them a designated spot to relax, whether you’re cooking dinner or watching TV.
Recommended Tool:
8. Focus on Building Confidence
Introduce your puppy to new challenges like climbing over obstacles, walking on different surfaces, or exploring new areas. Always keep these experiences positive and fun to build their confidence. Not only will this help to build confidence, but it will also help strengthen your relationship as they will trust your leadership and direction.
9. Invest in High-Quality Supplements
Proper nutrition supports your puppy’s growth and overall well-being. Consider adding supplements that promote healthy joints, a shiny coat, and strong immunity.
*as always with all supplements consult your vet.
Recommended Supplement:
10. Seek Professional Guidance
Even the best intentions can go astray without the right knowledge. Joining a puppy training seminar or working with a trainer ensures you’re on the right track.
Exciting News! I’m hosting a How to Raise Your Puppy Seminar on Tuesday, February 18th at 2 PM (PST). Attend in person in Las Vegas or join via Zoom to learn actionable tips and tricks for raising a balanced and confident dog. Spaces are limited, so sign up now to reserve your spot!
How to Raise Your Puppy Seminar:
Final Thoughts
Raising a well-trained, balanced, and confident dog doesn’t happen by accident. It takes effort, consistency, and the right tools. By following these ten tips, you’ll set your puppy up for a lifetime of success.
If you found this guide helpful and want more tips, tools, and strategies, don’t forget to check out my seminar (it's available online and in-person) and subscribe to my email list for exclusive content and offers.
Let’s raise amazing dogs together!
-Antonio
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