Comprehensive Canine Training Jacksonville, Fl. Tip Sheets

Bringing Home a New Dog or Puppy

It is critical to establish a routine and boundaries whenever bringing a new puppy or dog into your home. Below is a simple list of “Do’s and Don’ts”.

Do’s:

1. Implement the 3-3-3 rule. The first 3 days should be for adjusting to the new environment, next 3 weeks for training and bonding, and first 3 months for training and continued socialization.

2. Establish a routine. Do have a schedule for bedtime, meals, potty breaks, playtime, etc. This schedule does not need to be rigid.

3. Put the current dog(s) first! Meet the needs of the established dog(s) first. Potty, walk, and feed the established dog(s) first. The new dog does not take priority over established dogs. This is very important and should not be disregarded.

4. Have clear rules and boundaries from the start. Come up with what these will be PRIOR to bringing the new dog home. Decide what life in a home with this dog will look like. For instance, not allowed furniture, in kitchen, etc.

5. Implement crate training. Make the crate a wonderful place. This is for safety purposes as well as to ensure the new dog is getting adequate rest, get into mischief or pester the established dog(s).

6. Do have your veterinarian do a full exam of your new dog. Regardless of age, this is always a good idea.

7. Do take time introducing the new dog to your established dog(s) NEUTRAL territory. Take time introducing new people and situations. Do not allow a new dog to immediately run amuck in your home or yard with established dogs.

8. Observe and get to know your new dog, see what they enjoy versus what they do not. How do they like to be pet? Where do they enjoy walking? What sensitivities do they have that need to be worked on? What do they find rewarding?

9. Do implement training once the dog has had time to adjust somewhat. Begin by establishing little routines and rules, boundaries from the start go a very long way.

10. Do be the bearer of good things. Be fair with your new dog and teach them that all good things come from you.

This is your chance to get things right from the start. Make it count!

Don’ts:

1. Don’t give the dog free rein of your home. This decision is difficult to reverse later. The first few days and possibly weeks a new dog should get tours of the home on a leash and learn how to behave in your home. This varies from dog to dog.

2. Don’t tolerate behavior you will not enjoy later. For example, if you allow a puppy to jump on you expect them to do it as an adult. Behavior that is tolerated is behavior that will continue.

3. Don’t take your new dog to a dog park to socialize them. I am personally not a fan of dog parks as the risk is too great. Dog parks are generally a recipe for illness and poor behavior. I do not recommend.

4. Don’t allow the dog to follow you around all day. Crate train! This is a recipe for separation anxiety and dog that cannot cope with being alone.

5. Don’t rush into a training regime. But take a few days or weeks to let the dog acclimate and adjust while reinforcing what you do like and not allowing behavior you do not like.

6. Do not allow other pets or people to overwhelm the new dog and vice versa. Transition can be difficult for some dogs, sometimes the established dog struggles with a new dog in the home. Support them by advocating for them and not allowing them to have their personal space constantly invaded.

7. Do not overwhelm the new dog with new experiences. Ease the new dog into what life will be like. Take the first week(s) to let the dog feel secure in your home and neighborhood before going out and about on adventures. Every situation is unique, so proceed accordingly.

Take the time to get to know your new dog – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Set the new dog up for success and reward the behavior you like. Some dogs ease into a new living situation seamlessly while others need more time and effort. At the end of the day, the first three months are your opportunity to set the stage for what life will be like. MAKE THE MOST OF IT AND ENJOY YOUR NEW DOG!

Dog Care Basics

Little things add up when it comes to the care and training of our dogs. Below are a few tips to help.

1. Nutrition & Feeding

Quality food: Choose high-quality dog food based on your dog’s age, size, and breed. Consult your vet for the best option.
Feeding schedule: Most dogs should be fed twice a day. Puppies may need more frequent meals.
Portion control: Overfeeding can lead to obesity. Follow feeding guidelines based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
Fresh water: Always ensure fresh water is available to keep your dog hydrated.

2. Health & Hygiene

Regular vet check-ups: At least once a year, or more if your dog is older or has health concerns.
Vaccinations & flea/tick prevention: Keep up with vaccinations and monthly preventatives to protect against parasites.
Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth a few times a week. Dental chews and toys can help.
Grooming: Regular brushing helps reduce shedding and mats. Some breeds need regular baths and haircuts.
Nail trimming: Trim your dog’s nails every 3-4 weeks to prevent discomfort or injury.

3. Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Daily walks: Take your dog on at least one walk a day, depending on their breed and energy level.
Playtime: Interactive toys, fetch, and tug-of-war help keep your dog engaged and active.
Training: Mental stimulation is just as important as physical. Teach your dog basic commands (sit, stay, come) and challenge them with puzzles or tricks.

4. Behavior & Training

Socialization: Expose your dog to different people, places, and other animals to improve their confidence and reduce anxiety.
Reinforce good behavior: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or playtime. Be clear with your dog on rules and expectations.
Consistency: Be consistent with commands and rules to help your dog understand expectations.

Puppy Training 101

Comprehensive Canine Training is here to help you build a strong, positive relationship with your puppy through effective training methods that work!

1. Start with Basic Commands

Begin teaching simple commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Use treats and praise to reinforce good behavior.
Tip: Keep sessions short (2-5 minutes) to maintain your puppy’s focus and avoid frustration.

2. House Training Tips

Take your puppy out frequently, especially after eating, drinking, playing or waking up.
Tip: Reward your puppy immediately after they go potty outside to create positive associations with the action. It is the action, not the location, you are rewarding.

3. Socialization

Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and other dogs to help them build confidence and reduce fear-based behaviors.
Tip: Always ensure new experiences are positive and rewarding, like gentle introductions with other dogs. Do not coddle your puppy if they are nervous, there are a variety of ways we can build confidence. Total avoidance is not a good tactic.

4. Positive Reinforcement

Use rewards such as treats, praise, and play to encourage desired behaviors.
Tip: Be consistent with the rewards and offer them immediately after your puppy performs the desired action.

5. Crate Training

Introduce your puppy to a crate as a safe, comfortable space. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time spent in the crate. Feeding meals in the crate can help
Tip: Never use the crate as a punishment. Make it a positive, relaxing environment with cozy bedding and toys.

Comprehensive Canine Training is here to help you build a strong, positive relationship with your puppy through effective training methods that work!

Potty Training Tips for Dogs and Puppies

Following these simple tips can help make the potty-training process smoother and more successful!

Establish a Routine: Take your dog outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or waking up. Consistency helps them learn when and where to go.

Choose a Bathroom Spot: Designate a specific area outside for your dog to use as their bathroom. This will help them associate that spot with going potty.

Use Command Words: Use a consistent command like “Go potty” when you take them outside. This helps them learn to associate the command with the action.

Praise and Reward: Immediately praise and reward your dog with treats or playtime when they go potty outside. Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the behavior. It is the location that you are rewarding.

Watch for Signs: Look for signs that your dog needs to go, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. Take them outside right away.

Limit Indoor Access: When you can’t supervise your dog, consider using a crate or confining them to a small area to prevent accidents. A leash is also effective.

Clean Accidents Thoroughly: If your dog has an accident indoors, clean it up immediately with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent, preventing them from going in the same spot again.

Be Patient: Every dog learns at their own pace. Stay calm and patient and avoid punishment for accidents.

Gradual Freedom: As your dog gets better at potty training, gradually give them more freedom in the house.

Seek Help if Needed: If you’re struggling with potty training, consider consulting a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for advice.

Following these tips can help make the potty-training process smoother and more successful!