THE BASICS OF PUPPY TRAINING: WHAT POSITIVE METHODS DO DOG TRAINERS USE?
The arrival of a puppy is a joyous occasion, but also the beginning of a major training challenge. The first few months, between 2 and 6 months, are crucial for puppies: this is the window of social plasticity where everything is learned. While many owners attempt this adventure on their own, professional dog trainers and behaviorists use precise methodological principles to build a healthy and lasting relationship.
ServicesPourAnimaux reveals the secrets of professional positive methods to transform your little ball of fur into a well-balanced companion.
1. Positive Reinforcement for Puppies
The days of coercive methods are over. Modern dog trainers have been using mandatory positive reinforcement since the new law of June 19, 2025, concerning animal protection and welfare.
_ The principle: Good behavior is systematically rewarded (treat, game, caress) so that the puppy wants to repeat it.
_ Timing: This is the secret of the pros. The reward must come within a second of the action. The dog trainer teaches the owner to become a metronome of praise.
_ Extinction: Instead of punishing misbehavior, the undesirable behavior is ignored when possible so that it dies out on its own, due to lack of interest.
2. Puppy Socialization
Many people confuse walking their dog with socializing it. The dog trainer works primarily on two areas:
_ Interspecific socialization: Teaching the puppy to communicate with other dogs but also with other animal species such as cats, rodents, horses, chickens, etc.
_ Desensitization: Exposing the puppy in a positive way to all everyday stimuli such as city noises, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, bicycles, children running, etc. The dog trainer ensures that these daily exposures are never traumatic.
3. Managing the puppy's basic needs (the canine Maslow's hierarchy of needs)
A dog trainer never starts with the Sit/Down command if the basic needs haven't been met, namely:
_ Physical activity: Walks adapted to the puppy's growth (not too long to protect the joints).
_ Mental stimulation: Interactive games, scent work, and mental stimulation.
_ Sleep: A puppy needs 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day. A puppy that doesn't get enough sleep becomes reactive and prone to nipping.
4. The Owner's Education and the Role of the Dog Trainer
The biggest secret of dog trainers is that they train the human more than the dog. The professional teaches the puppy owner to:
_ Read calming signals: Understand when the puppy is scared or tired (nose licking, looking away, etc.).
_ Be consistent: Always use the same words and gestures.
_ Managing frustration: Teaching your puppy that "no" and "wait" are part of life.
Why hire a certified dog trainer?
Every puppy is unique. A training method that works for a Golden Retriever might not work for an Akita Inu. A dog trainer adapts their expertise to the breed, the dog's temperament, and the family's lifestyle. Hiring a professional from the start can save months of frustration and prevent future behavioral problems.
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