Comprehensive Canine Training Jacksonville, Fl. Tip Sheets

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!