Training a puppy

[tinkerbell]

I'm getting a 9-week old puppy soon and I'm not sure what to start with. I know basic commands like sit, stay, and come are good to start with, but how long should I train her each day, and what should I start with?

[KOPsarah]

Hi there tinkerbell, congratulations on the coming arrival of your new puppy. The first command to teach is usually sit because it is a natural position for dogs and easy for them to learn. Start with regular (two or three times a day is good) but short sessions of about 10 minutes to keep within a puppies short attention span. Keep it light and fun and always end the session on a good note.

Also as you move onto other commands always start and end the session with the commands your dog already knows so that you are starting and ending with praise for correct responses commands the dog finds easy. Also make sure you start the alpha training from a young age so your dog always sees you as pack leader.

Don't forget to socialize your puppy as soon as it has had its vaccinations and also get it used to a wide variety of situations, noises and people as this will reduce the chance of behavioral problems later on.

Enjoy your new puppy and don't hesitate to ask any other questions you may have as your puppy grows.