Take a stroll through the pet section of your
local bookstore, and you'll see a plethora of advice on the raising and
training of puppies. Philosophies and degrees of experience vary widely,
so it pays to take the time to scan several books and buy only those
that feel right to you. In general, the following points are universally
accepted by experts.
POSITIVE METHODS
Use only positive methods to persuade, or teach,
your puppy what is expected of him. This philosophy is similar to that
of raising infants and toddlers—punishment usually serves little
purpose and may actually do harm.
STARTING EARLY
Using food rewards and praise, you can train a puppy
as young as eight weeks of age to sit, lie down, come and stay. There is
no reason to wait until the age of six months. In fact, the earlier you
begin, the sooner you and your puppy will have a vocabulary you can
share.
PUPPY CRATE
Consider using a puppy crate. In addition to its
other advantages, the crate can provide a "time-out" spot for
particularly rambunctious moments.
PUPPY TRAINING CLASSES
If one is available in your area, enroll your puppy
in a "kindergarten" training class, in which basic, fun
exercises are taught, normal behavior is reviewed and puppies have a
chance to socialize with their peers.
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