How to set realistic benchmarks for puppies to learn house rules?

When raising a kid, we give him all the time in the world to learn basic things like talking, walking, etc. But when we get a puppy or a dog, we want him to learn the rules of the house in a week at the most. 

A kid has been with us since he/she was born. A puppy, on the other hand, has been with a mother dog, sibling dogs, or foster care and has definitely learned from them. Moreover, adjusting to a new environment and people takes time, even for a human. 

So, when you get a puppy and you begin to train him, just put in the work, and keep realistic benchmarks. Here are some of those benchmarks:

1. Potty training will take four to six months

Yes, it takes around four to six months to completely potty train a puppy. For some smaller breeds, it may take up to a year because they have a small bladder. Keep training them regardless of everything. And if at any point, they have an accident, train them again or get them checked by a vet.

2. They are biting because they are not told it’s wrong

Let’s look at the teething process first. Its three phases are: 1) When the teeth are coming, 2) when the milk/deciduous teeth are falling, and 3) when the permanent teeth are coming. And it is natural for a dog to bite in these stages.

To address this, firstly, get them chew toys. Secondly, redirect them even when they are biting what is allowed. This way, you’ll prevent the habit from forming.

3. Time to leash train will vary depending on many factors

It is easier to leash-train a puppy than an adult dog. However, how soon they learn it will depend on how they are being taught, what routine they are following, and how much practice they are getting. 

Psst. You can set up the reminders for training your dog on the Sploot app, and maintain a routine that will help in training them better.

Here are some tips that will help you in training and raising your dog better, and at the same time achieve the benchmarks too:

• Tell your dog what you want him to do. Infact, show them too.
• Keep your dog calm by establishing a routine and structure.
• Identify five things that your dog likes to do. And make sure you do them.
• Every family member should have individual bonding time with the dog. Allocate the time and activity for each.