Young pups go through a “critical socialization window,” during which they require tons of positive social experiences to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly.
As new puppy owners, we humans also go through a critical adjustment period as we integrate our non-human babies into our lives, hopefully coming out the other end having formed bonds with our dogs that will last a lifetime.
All too often I see new owners hurtling down the road to puppy burnout. They aren’t sleeping and their homes are in shambles. They ask desperate questions and are much relieved to discover that a few simple answers can make a world of difference.
Here is what I tell them. (Note: This is a merely a general overview. There are plenty of great resources — books, DVDs, classes, trainers -— that can help you personalize these concepts based on your unique lifestyle and your pup’s particular temperament.)
1. Set realistic expectations
The puppy/human relationship is a two-way street. We have to figure out what they need and why so they can understand what we need. This takes time and sometimes zen-like patience. We can’t expect a pup to learn our ways overnight.
We humans are notoriously inconsistent, so it’s easy to confuse a puppy with mixed messages. After all, they don’t arrive knowing the difference between carpet and a patch of grass.. This is why it helps to have a sense of humor. Make a mistake? So what, nobody’s perfect. Try again, and know your pup will always forgive you.
Keep your eyes on the prize. Your hard work will pay off, and along the way there will be lots of Kodak moments and blissful belly rubs to keep you going.
2. Create a Puppy-free Zone
Most novice puppy owners don’t realize that giving a pup too much free-range is equivalent to teaching them how to misbehave. Our pups require consistent management and supervision in order to learn the “house-rules.”
The most effective way to manage your puppy’s space is to create a separate area that’s all his. Think of it as his “retreat,” a safe space where he’ll live when you can’t supervise him. He’ll have everything he needs: a crate, bed, rotating toys, meals, etc. He’ll learn to be perfectly happy when he’s there, and you can slip away on a mini-retreat of your own.
“Puppy feng shui” the rest of your home. Puppyproof every nook and cranny your pup might get at. If you forget to pick up something from the floor, all bets are off. If it gets destroyed, don’t scold your dog. Tell yourself “Bad puppy parent!” and learn from your mistake.
3. Establish a Daily Routine
Organize your puppy’s day into a set routine. A schedule will keep things nice and predictable, which gives you more control over your time. It helps to use a day planner, whiteboard, or even aGoogle calendar. Be sure to write in potty breaks, play sessions, alone time, meals, naps, social outings, etc.
House-training improves dramatically when a schedule is applied. For new parents, house-training is the gauntlet they fret most about. One piddle accident and they assume they’re doomed to fail, but a simple house-training log can map success and target any problems that need tweaking.
4. Provide Lots of Exercise
You’ve probably heard this truism: Tired pup, happy pup. What’s equally true? Tired pup, happy owner! The quickest way to slow a puppy down is regular exercise; it satisfies their play-biting urge and settles them so you can spend some quality time bonding.
Another benefit: a relaxed puppy is much easier to crate train. Combining a sleepy pup with a long-term chewy and a crate allows you to run a few errands without your pup stressing in your absence.
The Bay Area is full of options for your pup to get his yah-yah’s out. Puppy socials provide an hour of active play for pups, which translates into hours of stress relief for their people. Puppy daycare is a great option for alleviating your work guilt. Just be sure the staff is properly trained to guide puppies as they learn new skills.
And don’t forget to play games with your pup. Teach him fetch, tug, chase, etc., and he’ll show you how much fun play can be!
5. Don’t Neglect Brain Games
Mental stimulation is key to your pup’s well being, and, in turn, yours. The best way to provide mental calisthenics for your pup is to sign him up for a humane-based training class that covers learning theory so you can learn to see the world from your pup’s point of view.
Treat Puzzles are fabulous interactive toys to keep your pup’s mind (and jaws) busy. In puppy class, we tell owners to replace their dogs’ food bowls with puzzle toys (such as Kongs). These stuffable products make pups practice problem-solving as they access their kibble. Thus a daily necessity transforms into an active treasure hunt, freeing you up to eat your own meal in peace.
Follow these pointers and puppyhood will breeze by. Others will envy you and your pup will be a role model for happy puppies everywhere. The greatest reward of all? You will have formed an indestructible bond with your canine companion.
Aishe Berger is co-owner and training director of SF Puppy Prep (www.sfpuppyprep.com), a training school and puppy daycare to prepare people and their dogs for life in the city. Aishe lives in San Francisco with her Poodle Farfel and her mixed breed, Lola.
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