Home
Making the Right Decision
Puppy Preparations
Puppy Shaping Process
Puppy Learning Stages
Puppy Classes
Fun Stuff
Crate Training
There are many benefits to crate training a puppy, at the same time, limited arguments against it, other than those resulting from the improper introduction of a crate, using the crate for punishment and leaving a puppy in a crate for extreme lengths of time. If the crate is presented under positive circumstances, and associated with positive reinforcements, it is a wonderful tool for shaping a puppy into a well-adjusted dog; ensuring a safe puppy/dog; not to mention an aid in training and serving practical purposes. read more
Need Help & Advice?
If you cannot find the puppy information, articles or training courses you are looking for, or you have an idea for our website...we want to know! Please let us know here...
Puppy Training |
 |
How to Play with your Puppy
Games have a variety of benefits for both you and your dog! Games are excellent bonding opportunities and are mental, physical and emotionally rewarding - not to mention positive outlets for a puppy, discouraging self-inventive dangerous and/or destructive choices. As importantly, games teach puppies particular behaviour, behaviour shaping that will play a key role in steadfast obedience in later life. The more your puppy learns, the easier they are to teach, and the quicker they learn new things.
Everything you do with your dog teaches him something! Make sure that the games you play foster the behaviours and attitudes you want ... Good games promote cooperation and control.
- Sarah Wilson, Good Owners, Great Pets
Don't
- Don't over-stimulate your puppy when playing games - avoid any action that might be mistaken as a challenge or teasing
- Don't use your body or clothing as part of any game with your puppy
- Don't ever chase your dog
- Don't play aggressive wrestling and play fight games - most especially with guarding breeds
- Don't allow your puppy go to solicit attention - attention is granted on your terms
Do
- Do be well-stocked with appropriate toys for your puppy, both pacifier toys (chew toys) and interactive toys (squeaky toys, tug toys, etc). Teach your puppy that these are acceptable choices, and immediately replace all unacceptable choices
- Do be aware of how you use your voice during play with your puppy and when establishing control: high, squeaky voices ensue excitement and will wind-up your puppy; firm, low voice tones command attention and leadership compliance
- Do be aware of how you use your body posture during play and when establishing control: hovering postures invite jumping, nipping and general uncontrolled puppy play; tall postures and eye contact command leadership
- Do control all access to interactive toys. Also control when the game starts and stops
- Do control all games - take the opportunity to teach important commands to your puppy during play such as recall, fetch, "sit", "leave" and "drop it".
