If you’re like most new puppy parents, you might think you’ve got it all under control with a few YouTube videos and a “how-to” blog here and there. But believe it or not, there are some common mistakes that even the most well-meaning puppy owners make.
The Lure of DIY Puppy Training
It’s easy to see why people opt for the do-it-yourself approach when it comes to training their puppies. You’ve got all the resources at your fingertips, right? With a quick search, you can find countless articles, videos, and online courses promising to turn your rambunctious pup into the perfect pooch in no time.
However, what these resources often fail to mention is that puppy training isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for one dog might be totally ineffective—or even harmful—for another. Puppies are individuals, each with their own temperament, energy levels, and quirks. This is where an expert in puppy training comes in handy.
Common Puppy Training Mistakes
Before we talk about the benefits of hiring an expert, let’s go over some common training mistakes that many new puppy owners make. Identifying these pitfalls early on can save you a lot of time, frustration, and perhaps a few chewed-up shoes!
1. Inconsistent Commands
Let’s say one day you’re using “sit” and the next day you’re telling your puppy to “down” for the same action. It’s easy to see how this could confuse a young dog. Puppies thrive on consistency. If the commands change, or if different family members use different words, your puppy won’t know what’s expected. This inconsistency can slow down the training process and lead to a confused, frustrated puppy.
2. Not Starting Early Enough
There’s a common myth that puppies are too young to start training. Some people think they should wait until the pup is at least six months old. But the truth is, the earlier you start, the better. Puppies are like sponges; they soak up everything around them. Starting training at a young age helps instill good habits before any bad ones can take root.
3. Punishing Bad Behaviour Instead of Reinforcing Good Behaviour
It’s tempting to scold your puppy when they do something wrong, like chewing on furniture or having an accident indoors. But focusing solely on the negatives can be counterproductive. Puppies, like all animals, respond better to positive reinforcement. When you reward good behaviour, your puppy is more likely to repeat it. Conversely, constant punishment can lead to anxiety and make training even more difficult.
4. Inconsistent Schedules
Just like with commands, consistency in routines is crucial for puppies. If you feed your pup at random times or don’t have a set schedule for bathroom breaks, you’re setting them up for confusion. Puppies need structure to understand when it’s time to eat, sleep, play, and go outside. Without this, you might find yourself dealing with more accidents or behavioural issues than you bargained for.
5. Not Socialising Properly
Socialisation is a critical part of a puppy’s development. However, many owners either overdo it or don’t do it at all. It’s important to expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments, but it needs to be done carefully. Too much exposure too quickly can overwhelm your pup, while too little can make them fearful or aggressive in new situations.
6. Expecting Too Much Too Soon
Puppies are just that—puppies. They have short attention spans and are still learning about the world. Expecting them to master commands or be perfectly behaved right away is unrealistic. Training takes time, patience, and repetition. Rushing the process can lead to frustration for both you and your pup.
Why Hiring an Expert Trainer is a Game Changer
Alright, so now that we’ve gone over some common mistakes, you might be wondering: “Why should I hire a trainer when I could just try to avoid these mistakes on my own?” Great question!
Tailored Training Plans
An expert dog trainer can assess your puppy’s unique personality and needs, then craft a training plan that’s tailored just for them. This is something that’s nearly impossible to achieve through generic online resources. Whether your pup is shy, overly energetic, or has a stubborn streak, a professional trainer will know how to approach their training in the most effective way.
Faster Results
Because they know what they’re doing, trainers can often achieve results faster than the average pet owner. They understand dog behaviour in a way that only comes from years of experience. They know the right techniques to use and when to use them, which can significantly speed up the training process.
Preventing Future Problems
A professional trainer doesn’t just teach your puppy to sit and stay; they also help prevent future behavioural issues. By addressing potential problems early on, trainers can save you a lot of headaches down the road. For instance, they can spot the early signs of aggression or anxiety and intervene before these issues become more serious.
Training the Owner (Yes, You!)
Believe it or not, a lot of puppy training involves training the owner. A good trainer will not only work with your dog but will also teach you how to communicate effectively with your pup. This is crucial for maintaining the training long after the sessions are over. You’ll learn the right techniques, commands, and cues to ensure your puppy remains well-behaved as they grow older.
Peace of Mind
Last but certainly not least, hiring a professional gives you peace of mind. Training a puppy can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Knowing that you have an expert guiding you every step of the way can make the process much more enjoyable for you and your puppy.
Making the Right Choice for Your Pup
So, whether you’re just starting your puppy training journey or you’ve hit a few roadblocks along the way, consider bringing in an expert. Not only will it save you time and frustration, but it will also set your puppy up for a lifetime of good behaviour and happiness.
