The Crucial Foundations of Puppy Training: Why Sleep and Consistency Matter More Than 'Sit'
If you've clicked onto this blog, it's probably because you have a furry bundle of joy wreaking delightful havoc in your home. Maybe you're feeling a tad overwhelmed with all the advice out there on training your new puppy. Sit. Stay. Shake paw. Socialise with every dog in sight. Sound familiar?
But here's the scoop: the secret to a well-behaved and happy puppy isn't just about teaching them to sit or shaking paws. Nope, it's about laying down the crucial foundations that will make all the difference in their behaviour and learning ability. So, let's dive into why focusing on these basics is more important than anything else.
Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Puppy Training
First things first: sleep. Did you know that puppies need a whopping 18-20 hours of sleep a day? Yep, it's true! (Tell me I'm not alone in finding that surprising?!)
When your puppy doesn't get enough sleep, they turn into little land sharks, nipping and biting everything in sight. Think back to the last time you were sleep-deprived—cranky, right? The same goes for your puppy. Ensuring they get ample sleep directly impacts their ability to learn and their overall temperament.
Consistency is Key: Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries!
Consistency isn't just a buzzword; it's a lifestyle when it comes to puppies. Are they allowed on the sofa or not? Upstairs, yes or no? These boundaries need to be clear and consistently implemented - good management helps with this (baby gates / pens etc). Imagine the confusion of a puppy who one day is cuddled on the sofa and the next is scolded for it. Mixed signals lead to anxiety and erratic behaviour.
So, set those rules and stick to them. Your puppy will thank you with better behaviour and less stress.
Calm is the Goal: Teaching Relaxation on Walks
It's so tempting to let your puppy meet every dog and person on your walks. But here's the thing: not all dogs are friendly, and not all people welcome a jumping pup. Instead, focus on creating relaxed responses. Sit with your puppy and watch the world go by. Reward them for calm behaviour.
This practice not only teaches patience but also prevents them from becoming over-stimulated and anxious. Remember, calmness is a superpower!
The Importance of Proper Toilet Training
Let's get real: no one likes accidents in the house. Getting toilet training right from the start is essential. It's not glamorous, but it's crucial. Consistent bathroom breaks outside (I recommend ditching the pads), praise for doing their business outside, and patience are your best friends here. (Patience is key, folks!)
It’s Not All About the Tricks
Teaching your puppy to sit, stay, and shake paw are fun party tricks, but they're just the cherry on top. The real work is in these foundational habits: enough sleep, consistent boundaries, calm behaviour, and solid toilet training.
Key Takeaways 🐾
Sleep is essential: 18-20 hours a day.
Consistency rules: Set and stick to boundaries.
Teach calmness: Focus on relaxed behaviour during walks.
Toilet training: Patience and praise are crucial.
Foundations over tricks: Prioritise these for a well-rounded puppy.
Remember, every puppy is different, and what works for one might not work for another. But these foundations? They’re universal. Get these right, and you’ll have a happier, more balanced puppy ready to learn all those fun tricks you want to teach them.
Feeling a bit more prepared now? What would you do next? 😊
If you're looking for more tips and free resources, don't forget to check out our e-books and courses. Happy training!
