It is really important for us to learn the basics at young puppy age

All we learn gets imprinted and becomes our long lasting knowledge.

If you have time and patience to teach us basic commands, like responding to names, come, sit, lay, stay. We will appreciate that!

Be our friend and have fun with us!

Introduction: The early weeks of a puppy's life are an opportune time for learning and training. At Smart Puppies, we understand the importance of providing a solid foundation for our puppies' development during their stay in the store. In this blog post, we will outline basic puppy training concepts, approaches, and techniques that our dedicated staff and volunteers employ to nurture well-behaved and socially adaptable puppies. By implementing these strategies during the crucial 5 to 16-week age range, we set our puppies up for a lifetime of success and happiness.

1. Positive Reinforcement: We firmly believe in using positive reinforcement as the cornerstone of our training methods. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, and affection. Our staff and volunteers employ this approach to encourage puppies to repeat behaviors that we want to reinforce, such as sitting, coming when called, and walking on a leash. By focusing on positive experiences and rewards, we create a positive association with training and foster a strong bond between puppies and humans.

2. Socialization: During the 5 to 16-week period, puppies are highly receptive to new experiences and social interactions. Our store provides a safe and controlled environment where puppies can meet a variety of people, including staff, volunteers, and customers. We expose them to different sounds, sights, and surfaces to build their confidence and desensitize them to potential fears. Regular socialization opportunities with humans and other puppies help them develop social skills, learn appropriate play behavior, and become well-adjusted members of the canine community.

3. Basic Commands: Introducing basic commands to puppies at an early age lays the groundwork for future training. Our staff and volunteers work with the puppies to teach fundamental commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Through repetition and positive reinforcement, puppies quickly grasp these commands and learn to respond to them reliably. These basic commands provide the building blocks for more advanced training as the puppies grow older.

4. Leash Training: Teaching puppies to walk on a leash is an important skill that enhances their safety and facilitates outings with their future owners. Our staff and volunteers introduce puppies to the concept of walking on a leash using positive reinforcement techniques. They gradually acclimate the puppies to wearing a collar or harness and gently guide them in walking on a leash, rewarding them for good behavior. Consistency and patience are key as puppies become comfortable and confident on a leash.

5. Housetraining: Housetraining is a crucial aspect of puppy training that begins at an early age. Our staff and volunteers follow a structured approach to housetraining during the puppies' stay in the store. They establish a regular feeding schedule, take puppies outside frequently, and reward them for eliminating in the appropriate location. By establishing a routine and providing positive reinforcement for proper elimination, we help puppies develop good bathroom habits.

6. Enrichment and Mental Stimulation: In addition to obedience training, it's essential to provide puppies with mental stimulation and enrichment. Our staff and volunteers engage puppies in age-appropriate activities, such as puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive play sessions. These activities keep the puppies mentally engaged, prevent boredom, and channel their energy into positive outlets.

Conclusion: Training is a vital component of a puppy's development, and at Smart Puppies, we prioritize creating a positive and enriching training experience for our puppies during their stay in the store. By employing positive reinforcement, socialization, teaching basic commands, leash training, housetraining, and providing mental stimulation, we lay a strong foundation for their future training and behavior. Through the dedication of our staff and volunteers, we ensure that our puppies receive the necessary guidance, love, and support