Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new puppy. Between buying toys and choosing the right veterinary clinic, you have a lot on your plate. While owning a puppy is tons of fun, it can also be a lot of work at times. If you want your new furry family member to exhibit good behavior, you should start puppy training right away. Here are some tips for training your new puppy.

How to Train a New Puppy

1. Set House Rules Immediately

When you bring your new puppy to your house, you should already have rules in place. Decide if you want to let your furry family member on your furniture and if certain parts of the home are off-limits. Make sure that everyone in your family understands and agrees to these rules, as they need to be enforced consistently for the puppy to learn. 

2. Give Your Puppy Its Own Space

Like people, puppies like to have a space that they can call their own. Provide your new puppy with its own sleeping space, like a crate, that’s not shared with any other pets. Having a private space like this will help your furry family member feel safe and comfortable. Consider giving your puppy a treat when it stays quiet and relaxed in its area.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Every time your puppy exhibits behaviors you approve of, veterinary clinic professionals suggest giving it praise or a treat. Doing this will help your furry family member associate positive reinforcement with good behavior. You can do this through verbal praise, physical affection, or by giving them a treat that they do not receive regularly.

4. Discourage Bad Behavior

Whenever your puppy does something you don’t approve of, such as chewing on furniture or nipping at your feet, it’s essential to show it that the behavior is unacceptable. If your puppy starts chewing on your shoes, veterinary clinic professionals recommend redirecting it to something it can chew on, such as a dog chew. Avoid yelling or physical aggression, as this can make the puppy scared or hostile.

If you would like to learn more information about training your puppy, turn to the professionals at Clemont Animal Hospital, Inc. in Batavia, OH.  For more than 35 years, their veterinary clinic has been providing reliable pet care services for dogs, cats, rabbits, and exotic animals, including 24/7 emergency care. This animal hospital stays up-to-date with the latest innovations in the field, including advancements in veterinary dermatology and laser therapy, and strives to make all patients feel comfortable. For more information about their services, call (513) 732-1730 today or visit their website.