subject: Little Known Secrets To Training Labrador Puppies [print this page] Little Known Secrets To Training Labrador Puppies
If you're just welcoming a new Labrador puppy to your house, and are excited about training him, yet just a wee bit afraid that it'll be tough - don't worry. Labradors are extremely smart dogs, and you'll be able to train them quite easily.
Labrador retrievers are athletic puppies, and generally eager to please their owner. With just a little 'positive reinforcement', you'll be able to have fun as you're training a Labrador puppy. Here are 5 secrets to dog training that will come in handy.
Use Simple Commands
Some online aids to puppy training are elaborate and complex. Your little pet won't be able to process such elaborate commands. Teach with simple commands like 'Sit', 'Stay' or 'Come'. Once your dog has mastered these basic instructions, you can get more fancy with your training.
Train on a Leash
Labradors are agile puppies, and tend to explore surroundings and wander away even as you're trying to train them. Labs grow up into big dogs, so later on it may be hard to get them on a leash, as well. So using a leash is important at an early stage of training a Labrador puppy.
Do Not Use Force
Hitting your dog or using force against it is a big 'No-no'. It won't work to get obedience, and may even make behavior worse. Getting him inside his crate, potty training and house-breaking your new pet is best done by avoiding and preempting mistakes rather than ranting or raving after he's done something wrong.
Exercise Is Vital
Labradors are big on eating. They are always running around, displaying great agility, digging and exploring things, and generally quite active. It is important to let them have as many opportunities as possible to do this. But don't over-do it. Too much exercise before your pup's bones are fully developed will lead to problems as your Labrador grows older.
Monitor Progress Closely
Like with any other breed like German Shepherds or beagles, training a Labrador puppy takes time and patience. Do not rush things. Let your puppy become housebroken gradually. Behavior modification can never happen on a schedule, so watch to see how much progress your Lab makes, and you'll be pleasantly surprised.
These 5 simple 'secrets' to training your puppy will work just as well as any book or course or video that sells you advanced techniques. The key is to enjoy watching your Labrador puppy evolve from a lawless and wanton young animal into an obedient and pleasant companion over time.
