1. Start with Basic Commands

Teaching your dog basic commands is the foundation of good behavior. These commands help establish control and keep your dog safe in various situations. Here are the most important ones to start with:

• Sit: Useful in many scenarios, such as when greeting people or before meals.
• Stay: Ensures your dog doesn’t wander into dangerous situations.
• Come: Crucial for your dog’s safety, preventing them from running into danger.
• Leave It: Teaches your dog to ignore harmful objects or food.

Training Tips:

• Use positive reinforcement like treats or praise for successful commands.
• Keep sessions short and consistent to maintain attention.

2. House Training

Teaching your dog where and when to relieve themselves is crucial, especially for puppies:

• Establish a Routine: Take your dog outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
• Designate a Spot: Use the same area for bathroom breaks to create consistency.
• Reward Good Behavior: Immediately praise or treat your dog after successful outdoor bathroom breaks.

3. Crate Training

Crate training provides your dog with a safe space and prevents destructive behavior when unsupervised.

• Security: Dogs naturally seek enclosed spaces to feel secure.
• Prevents Accidents: Helps with house training by encouraging your dog to wait for outdoor breaks.
• Travel Safety: Crate-trained dogs are easier to manage during travel or vet visits.

4. Socialization

Exposing your dog to different environments, people, and animals reduces fear and anxiety:

• Introduce new experiences gradually and reward calm behavior.
• Enroll in puppy classes or arrange playdates with friendly dogs.