Puppy Training

Puppy Training

The Art of Crate Training: A Guide to Raising Well-Behaved Puppies

February 13, 2024December 5, 2024by Shaina

Crate training is a crucial part of raising a well-behaved and adaptable puppy. By following the recommendations from a professional dog trainer below, your new puppy can learn to enjoy their crate, making new situations (like boarding, vet visits, grooming, and more) less stressful for all parties. In this guide, we’ll explore the key principles of crate training to ensure a smooth and successful experience for both you and your new pup.

Exposure to Different Types of Crates

To help puppies generalize crates as a positive space to be, expose them to various types of kennels including wire, plastic, and fabric travel crates. These can be of different sizes (remembering that if a puppy is having potty accidents inside of their crate, the kennel is too large for now) from a small sleeping crate all the way up to a large x-pen for playtime. We recommend that you move the crates to different areas of your home, allowing your puppy to associate positive experiences with each type in various locations, both busy areas and more secluded ones. This preparation will prove invaluable when your puppy faces situations like boarding, vet visits, or stays away from home with friends, family members, or pet sitters.

Addressing Crying in the Crate

It’s natural for puppies to cry initially when introduced to a crate. However, giving them more freedom in response to their cries can actually exacerbate the problem and create full-blown separation anxiety. Puppies need to learn to self soothe and adjust to being alone, and the more time they spend loose in the house, the more likely it is that they will begin escalating their barking in protest (and eventually panic). Over time, they will become more comfortable in the crate — as long as we’re following the rules in this guide. Make sure your puppy is well exercised, pottied, and given something to occupy their time and energy such as a frozen stuffed kong, nylabone, or bully stick. Soon enough, you’ll have a relaxed, content pup!

Mealtime in the Crate

Eating meals in the crate creates a positive association and occupies the puppy during the initial first few minutes of crate time. To stretch that time further, consider feeding using a slow feeder, stuffed toy, snufflemat, or even scattering the food in the crate (like feeding chickens!). Puppies should eat all of their meals in the crate, unless they are being trained with their food for that session. Feeding in the crate can also help prevent potty training accidents by letting them digest in a calmer state. Done consistently, puppies should WANT to run into their crate as soon as they hear food being prepared!

Balancing Schedules and Flexibility

While schedules can be extremely beneficial, being too strict can create stress for both the puppy and the owner. As a general rule, puppies should spend a few hours each day in the crate, broken into different periods. During their time outside the crate, direct supervision is crucial. Use this time for training, exercising, playing, and teaching your puppy to settle at your feet. Keeping a leash on the puppy when they are out of the crate is important during their first few months in their new home, as it makes it easier to enforce what we ask of our puppies, and prevents mistakes such as potty accidents, chewing on inappropriate items, and behaving unruly in the home.

Earning Freedom Gradually

Freedom should be granted based on your puppy’s behavior. Only allow more freedom (time loose in the house, SUPERVISED) when the puppy demonstrates consistent good behavior, such as successful potty training, not chewing on inappropriate items, and settling during their downtime. This process requires commitment, consistency, and structure to establish a dog that can be trusted loose in the house unsupervised, and may take months to years, depending on the effort of the dog owner and the personality of the puppy.

Crate training is an essential tool in shaping a well-behaved and adaptable puppy. By exposing them to various crate types, addressing (and expecting) crying in a fair way, gradually granting freedom as it is earned, incorporating meals into crate time, and maintaining a balanced schedule, you set the foundation for a positive crate training experience. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key elements in creating a happy puppy who loves their kennel.

Need help training your new puppy? Reach out to Up N Atom Dog Training today. We LOVE puppy training, and will help you reach your training goals.

Crate training is an important part of training your new puppy!

How to: Socializing your Dog or Puppy (the right way)

January 5, 2024December 5, 2024by Shaina

There is a important distinction between a ‘social dog,’ and a dog that is ‘dog obsessed.’

What people want is a dog that is happy to engage with other dogs and people without dog aggression, or human aggression of any kind. What they actually end up creating can be a different story.

It seems like the obvious solution is to introduce your dog to as many dogs and people as possible. But, there’s so much more to it! The interaction itself must be a positive experience for your dog! If you see your dog avoiding the dog or person you are trying to introduce them to; If they are attempting to move away, make themselves small, or if you find yourself saying things like, “it’s okay….”, your dog is NOT having a great experience! There are steps you must take to ensure your dog walks away from that interaction thinking, “hey, that was easy.” We don’t want them to be like, “OH MY GOSH, THAT WAS THE BEST THING EVER!!!!” and we also don’t want, “THAT SUCKED… PLEASE, don’t make me do that again.” We want something lukewarm; medium if you will. Let me explain…..

If we are going for Dog Social:

Your dog can see another dog (off in the distance) and take it or leave it. Social dogs don’t get frustrated when they can’t access other dogs, and they don’t drag their owners to get to them.

While your dog is engaged with other dogs, they are still aware of you (if you feel like your dog is “blind” to your presence, your dog is not socializing in a healthy way).

When your dog sees a dog friend, they can quickly and easily be brought back under control, even if they are excited initially.

During play, your dog is easy to recall and refocus.

Dog Neutral: It’s important to note that **most mature dogs fall into this category**. Dog Neutral does not mean unsocialized.

Your dog is selective about its dog-friends. It doesn’t always enjoy playing with other new, stranger adult dogs or may have to be introduced in a thoughtful way.

Your dog probably grew up with the dogs it likes, and those relationships are friendly and fun.

It retreats, or growls and postures, when another (stranger adult) dog gets in their face or tries to sniff them.

When stranger dogs try to play, they move away and seem disinterested.

While they don’t enjoy playing with strange dogs, they are able to be near other dogs, or pass other dogs on or off-leash as long they don’t ‘get in their face.’

These dogs are usually tolerant of, and willing to play with puppies.

Think of how YOU behave in public. Is it appropriate to run up and hug every stranger you see? How about banter (joking around) or wrestling? It doesn’t connote that you are a mean person, it simply shows you are aware of behavioral norms. Some behaviors that were totally acceptable as a child are frowned upon as an adult. The same is true with Dogs. We don’t typically accept overly touchy, clingy, childish behavior from friends. Those are considered Toxic.

Toxic Dog Behavior

Stage One Clingon: When your dog sees another dog in the distance it pulls hard on the your leash. You can ‘sometimes’ wrestle them back into compliance. Trying to use treats to control their behavior is ‘hit or miss’ when trying to refocus.

Stage Two Clingon: Your dog is pulling so hard on the leash, it compels you to explain your dog’s behavior with “He’s just so excited…” Treats are as useless as your leash. You dog is difficult to refocus until the other dog is far away.

Stage Three Clingon: While you’re trying to explain how excited your dog is, the other people can’t hear you over your dog’s barking. You can’t reach your treats without losing your leash and your dog. Walking your dog is becoming more of an upper body workout.

Stage Four Clingon: Seeing another dog in the distance gives YOU anxiety. Taking your dog for a walk is embarrassing. They are basically unaware of your presence in search of other things to interact with. They barely flick an ear at you even if you (repeatedly) call their name. Barking is become unbearable.

Stage Five Dog Obsessed: The thought of walking your dog gives you pause. Hiding behind trees and cars when you spot another dog in the distance is the norm. You know there’s a problem. Is the Dog Park a solution?

First, the Dog Park and Dog Daycare is rarely the way to go, as (as counter-intuitive as that may seem), because they can actually facility Cling-on behavior.

If you notice your dog becoming a Cling-on, the best time to intervene is BEFORE STAGE THREE. Your dog needs proper dog training to retain or mitigate their social behavior. If Cling-on behavior has developed, the goal is to get Dog Neutral. Dog training is helpful, but not miraculous. If you are teetering on stage four or five, life-long management and mitigation of the dog’s behavior is in order; dog training will *help but may not fix the problem. At that point the dog may struggle to return to Dog Neutral, and Dog Social will likely never be an option.

Tips for Socializing your Dog

Focus on long-term doggy relationships (friend, neighbor, and family dogs). Monitor their play and intervene when things appear to be getting too amped. Don’t wait until there is aggressive behavior. Monitor their body language and step in early. If you need additional guidance, contact a dog trainer.

Avoid meeting strange dogs your dog will never see again.

Reward your dog for ignoring other dogs on walks. I know…. That doesn’t sound right!? If you want your dog to like other dogs, isn’t ignoring them the opposite? NO, not in dog psychology! Pairing a reward event with the presence of other dogs helps build that positive association, without the adrenaline and cortisol rush, or the potential for the interaction to go south!

If you feel like your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, treadmill train, teach them how to tug, and/or hire a dog walker or dog hiker, instead of doggy daycare or dog parks.

Up N Atom Dog Training can help you reach your training goals through various dog training program options. We offer dog training in the Cleveland and Northeast Ohio area, so reach out and let us get your dog on track.

Choosing the Right Size Dog Toys to Prevent Choking

October 9, 2023by Shaina

Playing fetch can be a great energy outlet for your toy-loving dog. It provides exercise, mental stimulation, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the toys you choose are safe for your dog, especially when it comes to balls. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of appropriately sized balls for dogs to prevent choking and offer some tips on making the right choice.

Why Size Matters

Choosing the right size of ball for your dog is essential for their safety and enjoyment during playtime. A ball that is too small can pose a choking hazard, as it may easily become lodged in your dog’s throat. Conversely, a ball that is too large might be difficult for your dog to carry or manipulate, which can lead to frustration or injuries.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Balls

Breed and Size

Different dog breeds have different mouth sizes. It’s important to select a ball that is proportionate to your dog’s size. For example, smaller dogs like Chihuahuas will need smaller balls, while larger breeds like Labradors require balls with a more substantial diameter. The ball should be large enough to rest just behind your dogs canine teeth, and be unable to slip down their throat.

Material

Opt for balls made from non-toxic, durable materials like rubber or natural latex. Avoid balls that are too soft, as they can be easily chewed or torn apart, potentially leading to choking hazards. Tennis balls become similar to sand-paper when they get dirt on them… imagine chewing on dirt! Not great for your teeth over time.

Texture

Choose a ball with an appropriate texture for your dog’s chewing habits. Some dogs prefer smooth balls, while others may enjoy textured surfaces that provide extra gum stimulation. If they are too slick, their size is even more critical as they may more easily slide down a dogs throat.

Weight

A ball that is too heavy may be challenging for small dogs to carry, while a ball that is too light may not engage larger dogs as effectively. Aim for a weight that allows your dog to pick up and carry the ball comfortably.

Supervision

Always supervise playtime, especially with a new toy. This way, you can observe how your dog interacts with the ball and intervene if there are any signs of discomfort or potential choking hazards. Consider a ball on a rope during supervised play; for one, you can chuck it way further, but also it gives you something to pull in case the ball does get lodged in your dogs throat.

Consider Interactive Toys

Consider using interactive toys like treat-dispensing balls such as a Buster Cube or a Kong Wobbler. These not only provide mental stimulation but also encourage slower, controlled play, reducing the risk of choking.

Regular Inspections

Regularly inspect your dog’s toys for signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn-out balls to prevent potential choking hazards.

Selecting the right-sized balls for your dog is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and enjoyment during playtime. By considering factors like your dogs breed, size, material, and texture, you can choose a ball that suits your dog’s individual needs. Remember to always supervise play and replace damaged toys promptly. With the right toy, you can provide your dog with hours of safe, enjoyable playtime.

How to Raise a Puppy

February 14, 2023December 5, 2024by Shaina

I’m raising a few puppies right now. I’ve done a lot of puppy raising over the years, both for breeders and for clients (and, obviously, for myself). When clients are struggling with their own puppies it’s usually pretty easy to guess the root of the problem: too much freedom and attention.

I know, I know… you got a puppy because you wanted a pal. You don’t want to keep them in a box. You took two weeks off of work so you could make every crate experience the puppies own choice and bonded by hanging out on the couch. But now, that two weeks is up and you HAVE to put the puppy in the box… and the puppy isn’t having it. Yikes, what went wrong?

I love my puppies just as much as the next person. But loving them means understanding that what *I* want to do with my puppy isn’t always what is best for them.

If I want my puppy to get used to being in a crate when I’m out of the house, I need to make that a normal part of their life as soon as possible. I feed every meal in the crate, have them spend plenty of time in them both when I am home and when I leave, and I have multiple crates/pens set up around the house so they don’t get too accustomed to a certain environment/amount of activity. My time spent with my puppies is intentional and always directly supervised.

Potty training is also less complicated if you aren’t letting your puppy run around loose all day while you’re home. Baby puppies have baby bladders… and they need to physically mature a bit before they can learn to hold it. Too much freedom in the house means a high risk of accidents, and a more difficult time potty training. Puppies need to go outside regularly and have no opportunities to make a mistake inside. That’s the secret to it. How do you accomplish that? By using a crate, making a schedule, observing your puppy closely, and understanding that any mistakes they DO make are probably human error. With time, physical maturity, and structure, healthy puppies will potty train. But a puppy with too much freedom, no schedule, and inconsistent owners will struggle for much, much longer.

Jumping/biting/counter surfing/stealing household items/etc… don’t let them do that! Again, too much freedom is happening if your puppy is able to jump all over your house guests or run off with a sock. Keeping your puppy on a leash in the house, using your crate when you can’t directly supervise, and making sure all inappropriate items are out of reach when the puppy is out will prevent those normal-puppy-issues from spiraling out of control as they grow.

Puppies are hard. I get it! But they’re WAY harder if you don’t look at restricting their freedom as a temporary (necessary) state of existence. Preventing bad behavior now will save you a LOT of trouble later… do right by your puppy and your family by raising your puppy like a dog trainer would! And if you need help, contact Up N Atom Dog Training today.

A small Belgian Malinois puppy trots in the snow towards a dog trainer.

Puppy Training Cleveland: Get Expert Advice Now

November 21, 2022December 5, 2024by Shaina

Looking for Dayton puppy training? Starting off with good puppy training is such an important part of preparing your pup for a lifetime of happiness and adventure. This guide offers expert tips and advice on training your pup in Dayton, OH, so you can set them up for success from the start.

Establish Boundaries and Structure.

Establishing boundaries and setting structure is an important part of puppy training. Consistency and repetition are key to teaching your pup the boundaries and what is acceptable behavior. We always start puppies off with engagement (focus and attention on the handler), name recognition which will help with coming when called later, wait at the door, and leave it, all of which will help you maintain control of your pup in different situations as they advance in their training. Additionally, establishing rules such as ‘no jumping,’ ‘no barking indoors’ or ‘no chewing on furniture’ will help your pup learn what behaviors are acceptable or unacceptable in the home.

Establish a Consistent Routine.

Having a consistent routine when you are training your puppy is key – it helps create clarity for both of you! Once you have designed your puppy’s schedule, stick to it and be as consistent as possible. This will also help you and your pup get into the habit of performing certain commands or behaviors with ease. Consistency helps your pup grow in confidence and makes the training process much easier. The world is not a scary place if it is black and white! Finding a professional dog trainer to help guide you through this process can make a huge difference, as puppies can go through various fear periods throughout their growth.

Begin Socialization and Manners Training.

Socialization and manners training are important aspects of puppy training in Dayton. From an early age, it is important to start teaching your pup how to interact with other people, animals and its environment in a friendly and safe way. This is done by gradually introducing your pup to new sights, sounds, smells, objects and animals. Staying patient as you introduce your pup to new experiences and rewarding good behaviors with treats or verbal praise will help form positive associations for your pup. Taking regular trips to the local park or introducing your pup to pet-friendly businesses are great ways to socialize and teach them good manners, but remember that it is most important that your puppy learn to ignore other dogs and people! Any physical interactions they have with people or other dogs should be well-controlled with those you know and trust.

Potty Training with Positive Reinforcement.

Potty training your puppy is often the most challenging part of the process. However, reinforcing positive behaviors and providing consistent house rules is the key to success in potty training… meaning supervision, supervision, supervision is key here. Practicing a schedule with meal times, play times and bathroom breaks is important for establishing routines. Rewarding your pup when they do their job in the right area with treats or verbal praise will also help them form positive associations and learn good habits. Be patient as you go through this process, as different puppies move at different speeds when it comes to learning! Do not allow your puppy to sneak off and have accident in the house. Make sure you are crate training, using a leash in the house, and not giving your puppy too much freedom too quickly. It will take up to a few months of consistent work, but if you do not allow mistakes inside your puppy WILL potty train!

Introduce New Tasks Gradually and Be Consistent With Commands.

As your puppy gets more and more comfortable with the basics like potty training and house rules, you can start introducing the more complex commands like stay, come, sit and how to walk on a loose leash. Start off by teaching one command at a time in a low distraction environment (like the house or backyard) and keep the overall routine consistent. Don’t push your puppy too quickly by expecting them to perform under higher level distractions or in new, novel places. Use lots of positive reinforcement – in the form of verbal praise or treats – when your pup does a good job, as it will help solidify their understanding of that particular command. Remember to go slow – Rome wasn’t built in a day – and have patience as you introduce new tasks to your pup!

If you are located in Ohio and need help with Dayton puppy training or Columbus puppy training, please reach out. We have puppy programs designed to help you navigate this critical period in your life; we are experts in puppy obedience training, on and off leash training, socialization, focus and attention, potty training, crate training, house manners, and more.

Puppy Training

Crate Training Your New Puppy

January 26, 2021December 5, 2024by Shaina

Crate training is a crucial part of raising a well-behaved and adaptable puppy. Even if your long-term goal is to allow your dog the freedom to roam loose in the house, crate training is an important skillset your new puppy needs to have. By following the recommendations below, your new puppy can learn to enjoy their crate, making new situations (like boarding, vet visits, grooming, and more) less stressful for all. In this guide, we’ll explore the key principles of crate training to ensure a smooth and successful experience for both you and your new pup.

EXPOSURE TO DIFFERENT TYPES OF CRATES

Different types of crates have different uses. — We recommend getting your puppy used to many different types of crates, but using a hard plastic crate whenever your puppy is unattended for safety.

ADDRESSING CRYING IN THE CRATE

MEALTIME IN THE CRATE

Eating meals in the crate creates a positive association and occupies the puppy during the initial first few minutes of crate time. To stretch that time further, consider feeding using a slow feeder, stuffed toy, snufflemat, or even scattering the food in the crate (like feeding chickens!). Puppies should eat all of their meals in the crate, unless they are being trained with their food for that session. Feeding in the crate can also help prevent potty training accidents by letting them digest in a calmer state. Done consistently, puppies should WANT to run into their crate as soon as they hear food being prepared!

BALANCING SCHEDULES AND FLEXIBILITY

EARNING FREEDOM GRADUALLY