Training Videos
Training Videos to Get Started
Starting with the Victoria Stilwell training videos is a great way to lay a solid foundation for your puppy's training. These videos, although not a one-size-fits-all solution, can serve as a valuable starting point. Remember, your puppy should not be in a class situation until after they have received their entire set of puppy vaccinations, which usually ends at about 4 months. These videos will help you get off to a good start.
I love this one – notice the puppy is hungry, and there are no noise or activity distractions.
This one is great as well. My boys are great about doing this trick – getting them to stay longer than a second took a little more work.
Mastering the 'Come When Called 'command is crucial before venturing into the big, exciting world with your puppy. You want your furry friend to respond to your call, no matter the distractions or temptations.
Using the 'Loose Leash Walking' technique, which involves making U-turns when your puppy pulls, can be incredibly effective. It may feel challenging at first, but with consistency, you'll see the results. I needed some pepto bismol when we began the initial training, but trust me, it's worth it.
Here are a few tips for housebreaking
This is for "indoor" training, especially for those who will be leaving their puppy during work hours. Another option is to have a small, fenced gravel area right outside a laundry room or basement door, with a doggy door, and place the crate inside. This method provides a designated "potty area" in your yard, along with a safe space inside that's protected from the summer heat and adverse weather conditions.
I prefer this one more for general housebreaking guidelines.
Things I've learned with my dogs
• For the first few days, trips outside are for potty use only – we play and chase balls in the house until I can say "outside," and they run to the door, expecting to go potty.
• If you have two doors, use one for "potty" time, go back inside, and exit through the other for "play" time. The goal is to reinforce the "potty" queue without promoting the "play" cue at 10 pm.
• By feeding the final meal of the day early (4:30 pm at our house) and water by 7 pm, the need for middle-of-the-night potty breaks was eliminated.
Some great ideas; however, I don't agree with the entire video. The whole family is welcome, but please note that it is not safe to hold the puppy on your lap.