5 tips for new dog parents
Are you new to dog training but want to do everything right from the start? These five tips will help you:
Training starts from day one
The dog has arrived and everything is brand new and exciting. Alongside cuddling, playing, and simply adoring your new furry friend, the work begins right away. Instead of just letting the dog settle in, training starts the moment they move in.
Why let your dog pick up bad habits that you'll have to painstakingly untrain later? It's better to be consistent right from the very first day. By the way, this doesn't just apply to →puppy training! Even with an older dog from the shelter, you should set the rules straight away.
The diet should also be right from day one. If you're unsure which food is best for your furry friend, start with one of our →trial packs or get →free advice from us.
Give this a try!
Set clear rules
Like everyone else, your new housemate also has to follow certain rules at home. To communicate these clearly and effectively, it's best to think about in advance what your dog is allowed to do and what not. For example, is it okay if your furry friend lies on the sofa or goes into the kitchen? Can your dog sleep in bed with you? Should they get attention at the dining table or not? These are all important questions you should answer for yourself beforehand.
Calm, calm, calm
When we get a dog, we tend to jump right into cute tricks and things like sit and shake. Of course, that's not wrong. But let's be honest—what's more important in the beginning: that your dog sits nicely or that they can relax well at home? That they give their paw politely or that they are relaxed while eating? Exactly, calmness.
A relaxed dog is basically the foundation for everything else. If your four-legged friend can unwind at home and get plenty of sleep, it will have a positive effect on other things like teaching commands or leash training. A relaxed dog is more focused and receptive. That's why relaxation training shouldn't be neglected, especially at the beginning.
Which dog school should you choose?
If you're not sure how to start dog training, it's a good idea to attend a dog school. There, your furry friend can learn basic commands and social behavior under professional guidance. You might even make valuable connections with other dog owners. For very specific challenges, one-on-one training can also be very helpful.
Find your routine
Many dogs benefit from having a structured daily routine. Of course, that doesn't mean your dog has to eat or pee at the same time every day. A routine simply means your dog knows, for example, that there's quiet time at home, the harness goes on for walks at a certain point, and that your dog gets less attention while you're working less attention.
The same applies if you →take your furry friend to the office. Here too, routines like a designated resting spot and a relaxed midday walk they are familiar with can help.
