I currently have several clients who have puppies that are just touching adolescence, like about six or seven months old. They have all done a great job of working with their puppies, teaching them their commands, and introducing them to new situations.
The problem is, people often get frustrated about now, they have been working with their puppies and sometimes puppy just goes bananas. It is important to remember that while your pup may do just great at home and perform all their commands like a superstar, when you take them into a new environment (park, pet store, vet), go back to square one. They are going to be distracted and act goofy, it is totally ok to go back to baby training and lead them through every step of the way with treats and lots of body language. Remember, you want to set them up to succeed, and at this young age, it is absolutely fine to help them out. Don’t expect miracles too soon, you’ll get frustrated, they’ll get frustrated, and you’ll just stop taking them places. Not the goal. Work through it, do short training sessions with lots of cookies and praise in new environments, and congratulate your pup on every success.
Don’t give up, a puppy isn’t even considered an adult until they are over two years old, and for some, it takes even longer to grow up. Keep working, keep training, and know that the time you put in now will benefit your relationship with your dog for the rest of their life. It’s worth it.
Posted on December 6th, 2007 by michelle
Filed under: Training
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