Many new owners focus on basic commands such as sit and paw, but good puppy training covers far more than that. It teaches impulse control, boundaries, focus and socialisation skills that are critical to your puppy’s development.
Impulse control
Impulse control helps your puppy resist jumping, chasing, grabbing and stealing. Clear rules, boundaries and positive reinforcement help your puppy learn what works.
Hand signals and body language
Dogs are visual animals and often respond quickly to clear hand signals and body language.
Eye contact
A puppy that will not look at you will struggle to do what you ask. Get your puppy’s attention before giving commands, especially recall.
Recall
It is never too early to teach recall. Coming when called is vital for safety and strengthens the bond between you and your puppy.
Bite inhibition
Puppies need to learn that biting hurts and is not acceptable. Gentle play, calm interruption and positive reinforcement can help.
Resource guarding and separation anxiety
Owners can accidentally create resource guarding or separation problems. These can often be prevented with early training, safe exchanges and gradual alone-time practice.