Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dog be too old to train?
We have all heard that saying: "You can't teach an old dog new tricks!" and this couldn't be further from the truth! Your dog will go through many life stages, including their senior life stage. As your dog goes through these stages, there are common problems that may arise, and dog training is a great way to help your dog stay happy and confident as they age. Not only is a dog not too old to learn new things, but training can also actually help them live longer!
What dog training method is best?
There are so many opinions of the best method on dog training. Purely Positive Reinforcement, NePoPo (Negative, Positive, Positive), LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive), Balanced, and Corrective are all popular approaches. When debating what option is best, it is important that you choose an approach that is rooted in science-based methods. To determine if your trainer if a good fit, ask lots of questions and talk in detail about your goals, experience, and any safety concerns that you may have.
How do you socialize a puppy?
Depending on the age and size of the puppy, there are lots of options for socializing. As they are younger and smaller, carrying your puppy or pushing your puppy in a cart around the store can be a great start! This allows the puppy an opportunity to observe the crazy worlds around them with all of these weird sights and sounds!
As your puppy ages up, it is important to remember that socialization should be about quality and not quantity. Pair up with some trusted friends and dogs and plan walks and playdates together, try to avoid too much too fast. Work on building confidence slowly. This includes weird noises, weird outfits (hats, sunglasses, etc.), weird textures, and climbing over appropriate obstacles like branches and rocks! If you feel lost, like you need some guidance, or if your puppy is showing signs of anxiety, it may be time to reach out to a trainer. A professional can help coach you and your puppy on appropriate confidence building. Even when your pup has confidence, seeking a trainer may be your next step! Sometimes over-confidence can also be an issues, leading to obnoxious or destructive behaviors. Even if you haven't experienced issues, basic obedience training is a fantastic next step through your puppy's adolescence.
Is my puppy too young to train?
As a new puppy owner, you may be concerned about when to begin training. When it comes to formal training, it's best to wait until at least 8 weeks to start any class, private sessions, play school, day care, or board and train program. However, that doesn't mean training hasn't already started! Until that 8 week mark, work on things like establishing a routine, name recognition, light socialization and appropriate play!