Have you just got a puppy or planning on getting one? Or do people still think your dog is a puppy because of the way they act (mine is nearly 3 and gets called a puppy all the time!).
If you are planning on getting a puppy there are certain things you can do in preparation for their arrival, especially if you have other dogs too. You can get your other dog(s) used to not having access to you all the time, get them used to having a new crate or puppy pen in a room and generally build their independence.
You will need to consider how you are going to feed your puppy and what food. The best way is to ditch the bowl from the start. That way you can use the small food allowance they will have initially for training games. It is never too soon to start with games and building on some important concepts.
Key concepts for puppies are
- proximity – you want them to stay close to you
- confidence – you want them to be positive and sure about all new situations
- calmness – a puppy should sleep from 17 – 20 hours a day
There are lots of really simple games, that will not take your puppy long to learn that will help with these concepts. My top three games would be
- Paint the town red – with this game you just lure your dog around you in different directions and speeds with a piece of food in your hand, occasionally letting them have a piece. Encouraging them to stay close to you.
- Go Commando – for this game let your puppy try and go under your legs (either sitting on a chair or on the floor). This is good for increasing confidence and a good foundation to moving to doing Middle or Leg Weaves. You can even do it around table legs or under things.
- Mouse game – cage a piece of food on the floor, slowly release it and see if your puppy can show a level of calmness and resistance to the food. When they do you can give them the food. A game that can be played slowly to encourage a nice calm, quiet puppy!!
If your puppy is getting enough rest and stimulation common issues, like sharkies and zoomies, should not be such a regular thing.
If you would like some help with your puppy or to get ready for one then why not have a 1-2-1 session with me. Get in touch to have a chat and arrange a date.
There is also a great free resource from Absolute Dogs you can sign up for that has lots more detail and information.