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We’re not therapist and are not referring to your marriage. We’re talking about that ever so important bond between you and your puppy. Speaking to your puppy and teaching him important commands, phrases and words can strengthen your relationship even more!
We’ve all heard someone tell us that their dog listens to every word they say and while this may be true, it probably didn’t happen on accident. Keeping your dog involved in the activities of the house will help him to be more alert and, therefore, learn more commands. Here are a few phrases or commands you can teach your puppy!
1. Inside/Outside – This is pretty obvious. Tell him “outside” for potty breaks or a stroll around the yard. When he is finished, repeat the word “inside” as you walk back to the house. Pretty soon, you may be able to shout that word and watch him take off for the door all by himself.
2. On your bed – This is an excellent command to teach your puppy. When it’s time for bed, repeat to him this phrase so he associates bed time with his nice, fluffy bed. This can also come in handy when you need him out of the room for someone at the door, company, etc.
3. Upstairs/downstairs – If your puppy follows you around and is always at your heels, teaching him these commands can be as simple as pie. Each time you travel up or down stairs, tell him “let’s go downstairs” or “upstairs!” Again, this is perfect for company or if you leave your pup in a specific room when you leave. Tell him “downstairs” and shut the door behind him.
4. Go find… – This is just for fun, really, and something to show off to family and friends. Teach your dog to find “mom” or “dad” and watch him run over to your partner in excitement. This can also work for toys or bones left outside or even other dogs in the family.
5. Do you want dinner/bone/treat/etc – Teaching your dog to answer you when you ask him can also be fun and create a great bond between you both. Ask your dog “do you want a bone?” and watch him bark, spin and circles and do everything short of a back flip to give you an unmistakable “YES!”
It’s important to remember to not just talk incessantly to your puppy. Youngsters have very short attention spans and if you’re not telling them something they’re interested in, they may stop listening to you altogether. Talking to your dog and readily involving him in his every day activities will make him feel like a greater part of the pack and creates an unbreakable bond between the two of you.
Tags: bonding with your puppy, puppy socialization, puppy training
