Dog training begins at a very young age when the four-legged friends are still puppies. However, there is a right time for everything a dog needs to learn in its life.
A small puppy is not yet of the right age for the basic commands of dog training. The orders only come later, when the young four-legged friend has learned who his master and mistress are. Also, he knows where he can do his business and where his sleeping place is.
Early Dog Training For Small Puppies
A reputable dog breeder takes care of the proper dog training for very young puppies. The tiny little ones’ mother is there for them, but even puppies have to learn that they can trust people, children, and other pets. At this age, they should also get to know everyday noises such as vacuum cleaners, rattling cookware, falling objects and get used to driving in a car, to their transport box, and to be carried.
If the four-legged addition to the family comes to your house, you must convey who their new confidants are. The dog must rely on you, so be consistent, fair, and loving even in the puppy upbringing. With hand and body signals and vocal modulation, you teach your puppy to pay attention and listen to you from a young age. Show the newcomer where he can sleep, where his food bowl is and set up a corner for his urge to eat.
The Right Age For Basic Commands
Before the age of seven months, the puppy has to learn too many other basic rules, orientate itself in its new home with its new caregivers, and not concentrate so well. Dogs are only receptive to basic commands such as “sit,” “sit down,” “stay,” and “walk by” when they are around six to seven months old. Praise the dog for doing something right and use positive reinforcement that way. Make time every day to train your dog, no matter what age your animal friend is. Play with him, go for a walk and make clear announcements.
The latter is particularly true for young dogs in puberty, i.e., from around eight months of age. Like human teenagers, they test their limits, see how far they can go, and then need a remarkably consistent upbringing. However, clarity and consistency are not synonymous with harshness. Instead of harsh words and punishments, patience and security are required. Divide the training lessons into individual, concrete training steps and practice each “teaching unit” briefly, but several times a day, until your four-legged friend has mastered it. Only then does the curriculum continue.
If you want to practice dog sports with your four-legged friend that are physically demanding – for example, agility or pulling dog sports – wait until they are fully grown. Otherwise, the unfamiliar movement can affect the joints when the four-legged friend is still growing.
Dog Training In Old Age
Even adult and older dogs can still learn, even if it may take a little longer if unwanted behavior has already established itself. You can even teach senior dogs – age-appropriate, of course – tricks. In old age, they are usually not as nimble and agile as when they were young, but they are happy when they strain their heads or use their excellent noses, such as nose work and search games.