In The Beginning....HOW????

How do you expect your puppy or new dog to act in your home when it gets there? Many people don't realize that right along with housetraining, it is important to teach manners to puppies and dogs that are new to a household before they develop bad habits. This is crucial for all interaction and growth.

It is important to remember that each and every day will be a new learning experience, and whether or not manners and appropriate behaviors are learned is first and foremost the responsibility of every ADULT in the family. To say that it is counterproductive to have a child handle this responsibility is putting it nicely...it doesn't matter if a child has even pleaded and promised to love the new addition and has sworn absolute and utter devotion in showing it how to behave. The parents should be the ones to decide when the time is right to get a puppy or dog, knowing full well that they are ultimately responsible for the animal's well-being, it's training and it's positive joining with the family.

Mainly, it is wise to remember the first few weeks are the 'make it or break it' time...if allowance for schedule and time and patience isn't made to make sure proper training is given, many puppies or dogs end up getting kicked out into the yard, given away, or even dropped off at an animal shelter.

Believe it or not, young puppies even at the tender age of 8 weeks can learn to sit before getting a meal or a treat. They can learn to walk on leashes, have fun riding in cars, even to learn not to jump up on people when greeting them.

Remember that it will take gentle guidance, consideration of a puppy or new dog's fragile spirit, and most important, consistency.

Lastly, before getting a new puppy or dog, check into professional obedience training if you think you may need help in this area. The cost may seem high at first but in the long run it will pay off with the family having a dog that is truly a joy to be around, that has manners and won't chew on things it shouldn't, jump on people, beg for food or act like fire has been attached to his behind instead of a leash on his collar.

If you are pretty sure on HOW you want your dog to act once it comes home and you are prepared to make sure you do everything to encourage those manners and behaviors, then continue on to the next important topic in making sure your home is ready for your new family member...In The Beginning....WHERE???