Training a puppy is a labor of love that requires patience, discipline and dedication on the part of the handler. It takes energy and an upbeat attitude. Don’t work with your puppy if you’ve had a bad day that has left you tired, irritable and stressed. Wait until you can approach training in a calm, cheerful, controlled manner. Should you become stressed while training, stop and play with the puppy for a few minutes. Never intimidate or frighten your puppy with an angry sounding voice or abrupt, impatient handling. Have a few minutes of fun and relax. Then begin again.
Remember, you’re tugging and pushing and repeating words that are meaningless to the puppy. Without a doubt, your pup has other thoughts about fun things to do during the first few training sessions. If you are able to keep that point of view in mind, it will really help you to be patient and remain calm. Your dog will get the idea and cooperate—eventually!
When you start with a very young puppy, be satisfied if the dog can get the exercise right even once or twice. When that happens give lots of praise and then stop for a short while before going on. Also, it’s important to end training sessions on a high note that makes the puppy feel good. The pup will get the idea that training is fun and you’ll be able to use that natural enthusiasm to hold interest and build
confidence.
As you move along into more difficult exercises, always finish with something the dog already does well, then give plenty of praise. Your dog works for you to earn your smiles and approval.