🐾 1.
Start with Bonding
- Spend time playing, petting, and being present.
- Hand-feed occasionally to build trust.
- Let the dog feel safe and loved first. That’s the emotional foundation.
🐶 2.
House Training / Potty Training
Goal: No peeing or pooping inside.
- Take them out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bed.
- Use one spot consistently.
- When they go potty outside, praise + treat instantly.
- If there’s an accident, never yell or punish. Just clean it and reset.
🗣️ 3.
Teach Basic Commands
Start with:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down
- Leave it
- No
How to teach:
- Use a treat, say the word, and guide them gently.
- Repeat 3-5x per session.
- Always reward success within 1 second.
🧃 4.
Use Treats the Smart Way
- Start with high-reward treats (tiny pieces of chicken or soft treats).
- Phase out treats slowly once they “get it.”
- Replace with praise or play.
🧠 5.
Be Consistent
- Always use the same words for commands.
- Same tone, same routine.
- Don’t say “Down” one day and “Lie down” the next. That confuses the dog.
🐕 6.
Socialization (VERY important)
Expose them to:
- Other dogs (well-behaved ones)
- People (different ages)
- Environments (parks, roads, cars)
This reduces anxiety, fear, and aggression later.
🦴 7.
Crate Training (Optional but Useful)
- Dogs like dens. A crate can be a safe space.
- Never use it as punishment.
- Introduce slowly, leave door open, make it cozy.
- Helps with travel, vet visits, and emergencies.
🤯 8.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t yell or hit. It destroys trust.
- Don’t reward bad behavior (like petting a dog when it’s barking for attention).
- Don’t train when you’re angry or tired.
🐾 9.
Walks and Energy Burn
- Tired dogs are better behaved.
- Walk them daily if possible.
- Use structured walks (heel position) to train focus and calmness.
📅 10.
Stick to a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine:
- Fixed mealtimes
- Regular walks
- Consistent rules at home (e.g., not allowed on the couch unless invited)
Tools That Help:
- Treat pouch (for quick rewards)
- Clicker (optional for clicker training)
- Leash & collar or harness
- Chew toys (so they don’t chew your shoes)