When To Start Training

With any first time dog owner the inevitable question will arise, “When should I start training?” Training both formal and informal begins the day you bring ole Floppy Ears home. Of course the first training test with Floppy is the dreaded task of house breaking. Floppy must be made painfully aware of the proper potty protocol. While this initial formal training is underway Floppy is also observing and sizing up the trainer. Don’t think for a minute that Floppy isn’t gauging just how much leniency a sad face, playful romp or lick to the face garners. If Floppy senses inconsistencies in the training regimen the weakness will be exploited.

At this tender age the potential of Floppy Ears needs to be realized. At no other point in Floppy’s life will it be easier to expand the command vocabulary. Much like their human teachers, the canine has an innate ability to grasp concepts at a younger age with greater ease. Two words of warning for instituting your instruction to your bright-eyed student: First, keep your training fun. Second, reward Floppy for a job well done when the proper behavior is shown. Shorter sessions several times a day also will benefit Floppy.

Now simply put your training regimen to work and watch in awe at the progress Floppy shows.

One last note…..remember to enjoy training Floppy, this wonderful and frustrating time will be very short in the big picture.