Training your puppy is one of the best ways to help them grow into a happy, well-behaved dog. When your puppy knows the right commands, they can stay safe, listen better, and you will build a stronger bond with them. That's why I always say, a trained dog is a happy dog. Here are the 5 essential commands that every puppy should learn and why they are so important.
1. Sit
Teaching your puppy to sit is one of the first things you should do. This command helps them stay calm and focused. When your puppy is sitting, they aren’t jumping on people or running around. This makes it easier to handle them in different situations, like when guests come over or before feeding time. It’s also a great way to help them stay patient and well-behaved.
Why it matters: Teaching "sit" helps your puppy learn to listen and follow instructions. It’s the foundation for more advanced training and helps build trust between you and your puppy.
2. Stay
The “stay” command is super important for keeping your puppy safe. It teaches them to stay in one place even when they want to run or explore. This is especially helpful when you’re opening doors, crossing the street, or if there are other dogs around. "Stay" helps your puppy control their impulses and learn patience.
Why it matters: Keeping your puppy safe is the biggest reason to teach “stay.” It can prevent accidents, like running into traffic, and helps them be calm in busy situations.
3. Come
The “come” command is all about safety. When your puppy knows how to come when called, you can keep them from getting lost or running into danger. Whether they’re playing outside or off-leash at the park, “come” brings them back to you safely. This command also builds trust between you and your puppy because they learn that coming to you is a good thing.
Why it matters: “Come” keeps your puppy out of harm’s way and is one of the best ways to make sure they stay close when it matters most.
4. Down
The “down” command helps your puppy relax. Sometimes puppies get too excited, and "down" can calm them down. This command is great for when you’re out in public, like at the vet’s office, or when you have guests over. A puppy that knows how to lie down on command is easier to manage and less likely to cause trouble.
Why it matters: It helps your puppy learn self-control, which makes them easier to handle in different environments. This command is also a sign of respect from your puppy, showing they are willing to listen.
5. Leave It
“Leave it” is a life-saving command. It teaches your puppy to ignore things they shouldn’t touch, like dangerous objects, food, or even harmful substances. Puppies are curious, and this command helps keep them out of trouble by teaching them to focus on you instead of whatever is on the ground.
Why it matters: “Leave it” can stop your puppy from picking up something harmful, like chocolate or sharp objects. It’s a powerful way to keep your puppy safe and show them that listening to you is important.
Training your puppy with these 5 essential commands will keep them safe and help you build a strong, happy bond. A trained dog is a happy dog, and these commands are the key to making sure your puppy grows into a well-behaved, confident companion. Start training today and watch your puppy become the best friend you’ve always wanted!
To make training even easier, I’ve created a Puppy Training Cheat Sheets & Trackers Bundle! This bundle gives you step-by-step instructions for teaching each of these essential commands, plus trackers to help you monitor your puppy’s progress and keep the whole family on the same page.
These tools are designed to help you stay consistent and make training a fun experience for both you and your puppy!
If you desire to raise happy healthy dogs I invite you to join my free community where you will find my
FREE Preparing for a Puppy 5 Day Challenge!
Getting a new dog is so exciting! But one big question is: should you adopt a dog from a shelter, or buy one from a breeder?
Let’s look at both options.
When you adopt a dog, you are giving a dog a second chance. These dogs may come from shelters or rescue groups. Many of these dogs are looking for loving homes. By adopting, you are helping save a life! Plus, adoption is often cheaper than buying a dog from a breeder. Shelter dogs are usually already vaccinated and sometimes even trained, which can save you time and money. However, sometimes we don’t know much about the dog’s past. Some adopted dogs may have been mistreated before, so they might need extra care and time to feel safe and happy in their new home.
Buying from a breeder is a different experience. A breeder raises dogs from the time they are born. If you want a specific type of dog, like a Golden Retriever or a Poodle, a breeder can help. You can usually meet the puppy’s parents and learn more about its background and health. Breeder dogs are often well-cared for and may have had training since they were very young. But buying from a breeder costs more money, and sometimes breeders don’t take care of their dogs the right way. It’s important to find a responsible breeder who treats their dogs with love and care.
So, how do you decide? Think about your lifestyle, budget, and the type of dog that fits your family. Do you want a specific breed, or are you open to a mix? Do you have the time and patience to help an adopted dog adjust? Or are you looking for a puppy you can train from the start? Answering these questions can help you make the right choice for your family.
No matter what, both options can bring you a happy, furry friend who will love you forever!
If you desire to raise happy healthy dogs I invite you to join my free community where you will find my
FREE Preparing for a Puppy 5 Day Challenge!
Have you ever stood in the pet food aisle at the store, scratching your head, wondering which food is the best pick for your furry friend? You're not alone! With so many options, it's like trying to choose the best ice cream flavor. But worry not, because today we're diving into the world of dog food to discover the four main types that will make your pup's tail wag with joy.
1. Kibble Crunch
First up is the most common type you've probably seen everywhere - dry dog food, also known as kibble. Imagine having cereal for breakfast; that's what kibble is like for dogs. It's convenient, lasts a long time without spoiling, and comes in bags that are easy to store. Plus, munching on those crunchy bits is good for your dog's teeth. Just make sure you pick a kibble that's full of nutrients and not just filler stuff like corn or wheat. Reading a dog food label is more complex then a human food label for sure!
2. Wet Food Wonderland
Next, we splash into the world of wet dog food. This type comes in cans or pouches and has a lot of moisture, which is great for keeping your dog hydrated. Water is the most important nutrient in your dogs's bowl. (this was the first tidbit I learned in my studies to become a certified canine nutritionist) Imagine having a soup or stew; that's the vibe of wet food. It's especially yummy for picky eaters or older dogs who might have trouble chewing. The smell and taste can be a big hit, but remember, once opened, it needs to be eaten quickly or stored in the fridge.
3. Raw Food Rave
Have you ever seen a wolf chowing down on berries or grains in the wild? Nope! That's because they love their meals straight from nature. This is the idea behind raw dog food. It's made of raw meats, bones, fruits, and veggies. Some pet parents swear by it, saying it's super healthy and natural for dogs. However, many people are nervous or unsure about raw feeding because they are either grossed out or just don't know enough about it.
4. Homemade Happiness
Lastly, there's homemade dog food, which is like cooking a special dinner for your dog. You can use fresh meats, veggies, and grains to whip up something delicious and nutritious. It's a great way to know exactly what's going into your dog's belly. But remember, dogs need a balanced diet just like us, so you will want to make sure to use a balanced recipe or chat with a nutritionist to be sure your pup is getting everything it needs to be healthy.
Whether it's crunchy kibble, delicious wet food, natural raw meals, or lovingly homemade dishes, there's a perfect type of dog food for every furry friend out there. The best choice depends on your dog's age, health, preference, and of course your budget. I encourage every pup owner to focus on providing the best nutrition their budget allows. This can even include healthy treats to supplement their diet.
What questions do you have about feeding your dog a healthy diet?
This topic has become a passion of mine and the motivation behind my decision to go back to school to become a canine nutritionist!
Desire to responsibly raise happy, healthy, and well-behaved dogs that effortlessly blend into your family, becoming more than JUST pets -even if you lead a busy life?then I invite you to join my free group:
Rosie's journey began when she was trained to understand and respond to the emotions of humans. With her soft fur, comforting presence, and an uncanny ability to sense when someone needed her, Rosie became a beacon of hope in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. Her visits were eagerly awaited, and her presence brought a special kind of magic that lit up the room.
Imagine being in a hospital, feeling a little scared and very much alone. Now, picture a friendly dog like Rosie walking in, her eyes sparkling with kindness, ready to sit by your side and offer comfort without asking for anything in return. That's exactly what Rosie did. She listened without judgment, offered a furry shoulder to lean on, and gave unconditional love that made the worries of the world seem far away.
Rosie's story teaches us a powerful lesson about the impact we can have on each other's lives. Just like Rosie, dogs in our lives bring joy, comfort, and companionship. They remind us of the importance of being present for one another, offering support, and spreading kindness wherever we go.
One of the most heartwarming moments in Rosie's career was when she helped a young boy overcome his fear of dogs. The boy had been bitten by a dog years ago, and the fear had stayed with him. But Rosie, with her gentle approach and patient demeanor, showed him that not all dogs are to be feared. Over time, the boy learned to trust again, thanks to Rosie's unwavering friendship.
This story of Rosie the Therapy Dog is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness can have the most profound impact. It's about how we, too, can be like Rosie in our own way. Whether it's lending an ear to a friend, offering a helping hand to a stranger, or simply sharing a smile, we all have the power to bring light into someone's life.
So, let's take a lesson from Rosie's book and strive to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time. And remember, just like Rosie, every dog in our lives has the potential to be a hero in their own unique way.
Do you love inspiring dog stories?
Be the first to experience the heartwarming tales of courage and resilience in my new book 'Furever Courageous: Inspiring Tales with Tails.' Dive deeper into the incredible adventures of dogs like Smoky, with longer versions of their stories and more adorable photos. Join our book waitlist for now and be notified the moment it launches! You will fall in love with these pups!
Are you searching for a super fun game to play with your furry friend that'll keep them entertained and mentally sharp? Look no further than "Hide and Seek"! It's a paw-some way to stimulate your dog's mind while having a blast together. Let's dive into how to play this tail-wagging game!
A Tail-Wagging Adventure:
Picture a bright and sunny morning in the neighborhood park. The grass is lush green, and the air is filled with the chirping of birds. Among the trees and flowers, there's Buddy, a playful Labrador, and his best friend, Emily. Emily loved nothing more than spending quality time with Buddy, engaging in exciting activities.
One day, Emily decided to introduce Buddy to a new game called "Hide and Seek." With a pocket full of treats and a mischievous grin, she explained the rules to Buddy. His tail wagged furiously in excitement as he watched Emily hide a treat behind a bush.
How to Play:
- Start Simple: Emily showed Buddy the treat and then carefully concealed it behind a nearby bush. With eager eyes, Buddy watched every move.
- Encourage Exploration: Emily exclaimed, "Find it, Buddy!" Buddy eagerly sniffed around, following the scent trail until he discovered the hidden treasure.
- Celebrate Success: With a triumphant bark, Buddy proudly presented the found treat to Emily, wagging his tail in delight.
- Gradually Increase Difficulty: As Buddy became a seasoned seeker, Emily upped the challenge, hiding treats in trickier spots like under benches or behind trees.
Benefits of Hide and Seek:
- Mental Stimulation: Searching for hidden treats engages Buddy's brain, sharpening his problem-solving skills and providing mental exercise.
- Bonding Time: Each game of Hide and Seek strengthens the bond between Emily and Buddy, creating cherished memories and deepening their friendship.
- Physical Exercise: While Buddy hunts for treats, he also gets some physical exercise, keeping his body healthy and fit.
Read more about the benefits of playing games with your dog.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your treats, find some sneaky hiding spots, and embark on a thrilling game of Hide and Seek with your furry companion. It's a surefire way to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated for hours on end!
Do you desire to responsibly raise happy, healthy, and well-behaved dogs that effortlessly blend into your family, becoming more than JUST pets -even if you lead a busy life?!?
If the answer is yes, then I invite you to join my free group:
