When to Start Training:

The ideal time to start training your Southeast Doodle puppy is between 8 to 12 weeks of age. At this stage, puppies are mentally and physically ready to begin learning basic commands and good behaviors. The earlier you start, the more your puppy will benefit from establishing good habits and routines.

Crate Training:

Crate training is crucial for several reasons: it provides a safe space for your Southeast Doodle puppy, assists with housebreaking, and aids in preventing destructive behaviors.

  • Choose the right-sized crate: Your doodle's crate should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Avoid crates that are too large, as this can encourage accidents.
  • Introduce the crate: Make the crate inviting by placing soft bedding, toys, and treats inside. Encourage your #SoutheastDoodle puppy to explore the crate, praising them when they enter.
  • Gradually increase crate time: Begin by closing the crate door for short periods, gradually increasing the duration as your puppy becomes more comfortable. Remember to provide regular bathroom breaks and exercise.
  • Establish a routine: Create a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and crate time to help your doodle puppy understand what is expected of them.

Handling Puppy Accidents:

If your Southeast Doodle puppy is having accidents, it's essential to address the issue promptly and establish a consistent routine to minimize future incidents.

  • Establish a routine: Create a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks.
  • Frequent potty breaks: Take your #SoutheastDoodle puppy outside frequently for bathroom breaks.
  • Reward and praise: Reinforce positive behavior when your puppy goes potty outside.
  • Watch for signs: Learn to recognize your puppy's signals and take them outside when needed.
  • Clean up accidents thoroughly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove odor from accidents.
  • Do not punish: Focus on reinforcing positive behaviors instead of punishing accidents.
  • Crate training: Use crate training to teach your puppy to hold their bladder when unsupervised.
  • Be patient: Accidents are a normal part of the housebreaking process.
  • Consult your vet: Rule out any underlying medical issues if accidents persist.

Leash Training:

Leash training is essential for ensuring your Southeast Doodle walks safely and calmly on a leash without pulling or straining.

  • Introduce the collar and leash: Allow your #SoutheastDoodle puppy to get accustomed to wearing a collar and leash.
  • Teach your puppy to follow: Encourage your doodle to walk beside you using treats and verbal praise.
  • Gradually increase leash length: Increase the length of the leash as your puppy becomes more comfortable walking beside you.
  • Practice in various environments: Expose your Southeast Doodle to different settings to help them adapt to various situations and distractions.

What to Do if Your Puppy Ignores Commands:

If your Southeast Doodle puppy is ignoring your commands, there could be several reasons, such as distractions, lack of understanding, or insufficient motivation.

  • Be consistent: Use the same command and hand signal for each action consistently.
  • Use high-value rewards: Ensure you are using high-value treats or rewards that your #SoutheastDoodle puppy finds motivating.
  • Start with basic commands: Begin with simple commands like "sit," "down," and "stay."
  • Train in a controlled environment: Start training in a quiet, distraction-free environment, and gradually introduce distractions.
  • Break down commands into smaller steps: If your puppy is struggling, break commands into smaller, more manageable steps.
  • Be patient and positive: Maintain a positive attitude and be patient throughout the training process.
  • Keep training sessions short: Conduct multiple short training sessions (5-10 minutes) throughout the day.
  • Reinforce commands: Practice and reinforce commands regularly to ensure your puppy retains their understanding and responsiveness.
  • Seek professional help: If your #SoutheastDoodle puppy continues to ignore commands, consider enrolling them in a puppy training class or working with a professional dog trainer.

Obedience Training:

Obedience training is crucial for establishing a strong bond with your Southeast Doodle and ensuring they are well-behaved, happy, and safe.

  • Begin with basic commands: Teach your doodle simple commands such as "sit," "stay," "down," and "come." Use treats, praise, and consistency to reinforce these behaviors.
  • Use positive reinforcement: Reward your #SoutheastDoodle puppy with treats, praise, or playtime when they follow a command correctly.
  • Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, so don't expect immediate results. Consistency in commands, rewards, and expectations is essential for success.
  • Enroll in a puppy training class: Group classes can be beneficial for socialization and learning from an experienced trainer.

Conclusion:

Training your Southeast Doodle puppy early on is essential for establishing good behaviors, strengthening your bond, and ensuring a well-adjusted, happy, and obedient pet. Crate training, leash training, and obedience training are all vital components of a comprehensive training plan. Handling accidents and addressing situations where your puppy ignores commands are also important aspects of training. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you'll be on your way to raising a well-behaved and loving #SoutheastDoodle companion.