Top Tips for Training Your New Puppy or Kitten

Bringing a puppy or a kitten is exciting, especially if it's your first. The happy wagging tail and soft fur are worth the hassle that you go through. All the snuggles and cuteness portray that the puppy and kitten are like clean paper, free from bad habits. But it also directs that you must train your pet so that the pup or kitten becomes a definitive part of the family.

Pet training might seem daunting, particularly when having a naughty kitten or a curious pup. There is much to learn before you train the new pet. This article is divided into two sections where you can learn the training tips for the new puppy and the kitten.

 

How to Train Your Puppy

Now training the furry little puppy is like creating a symphony, and you can act as the maestro while doing all the magic of training. 

Here are some insider tips for teaching manners and creating a structure for the puppy before he gets young and ignores the rules.

Start early training 

You might laugh at the cute and funny things your puppy does, but wait until it gets older. The pup will use the same antics to get attention, such as jumping up and down on people or running after toddlers to play. 

Once the pup is old enough, this can create a nuisance, so start interaction and training early. Remember, do not encourage bad behavior at any point. 

Expanding puppy space

If you let your puppy run around the house, it will create many accidents. Follow the excellent rule of thumb to confine the puppy to one space and introduce other areas to him with time and naturally.

Use the crate for meals.

Always train your puppy to use crates, especially when it's time for the meal. One way is to treat the puppy whenever they go in their boxes. This way, the puppy will not chew the sofa or other furniture items in the house. Once prone to it, they will also play and eat in the crate.

Train for potty

Please pay close attention to the changing body language of your pup when he has to do his business. Observe the signals as the puppy will repeat the same signs outdoors too. Set up a playpen area and redirect the puppy when the body signs change.

Walk with leash

There are very few breeds that you can train to walk with a leash. But this training is essential so the puppy can walk calmly when you are socializing them. Moreover, it would be best to prepare the puppy not to bite at any cost to avoid mishaps and accidents. 

For this, take the rule of trick or treat. If the dog obeys, you give a treat. Otherwise, you can shut the door briefly to calm the pup. You can also end the play time or take away the chew toys to make the pet learn. 

Top Tips to Train Your Kitten

The pet training process becomes creative when it comes to kittens. Generally, kittens are less responsive than puppies, but once you start the training, you will notice that the kittens are brilliant pets. 

Follow the tricks below if you want the kitten off the countertops or tables. Training a kitten is about bonding with the furry friend, so it will take lots of patience.

 

Train to sit

Start the training by teaching a simple command of sitting. Right after the kitten's bottom hits the ground, use voice commands like 'good' or 'very nice.' Additionally, you can proceed with a treat. But if the kittens stand or raise their hind legs, take the pleasure away. Repeat the procedure several times a day to reinforce these strategies.

Train for bed and crate

Kittens love to sleep in a cozy bed only if you train for it. The same goes for the crate as well. Start with food to encourage and lure the kitten to the bed or box. Place the meal on the bed and inside the container, and let your pet enjoy it.

Safe playing techniques

Kittens are full of energy, so use it to bond with you. Train the kitten not to rough play with furniture, sofa or curtains, and bed sheets. Also, train the kitten not to use claws and teeth on anyone's skin. For this, get a catnip or rough ball or use a feather as a stick to play and let the energy out.

You can also build a wall staircase and keep cozy cushions in a basket for the kittens. This way, the pet will direct all energy toward climbing stairs. Use sticks and food for the kitten at this point too.

Train for the social environment

The socialization period for kittens starts at six to seven weeks of age. Many kittens are only exposed to a limited number of people; hence, they become frightened when encountering adults. 

You can counter this by inviting people to your home. Use toys, treats, and praise when introducing your kitten to new people. You can also use a leash to keep your kitten near you while the pet basks in the new environment. Additionally, take the kitten to the farmers market, a friend's house, or for a walk where people come with their pets. This way, you can expose and train the kitten to become friendly with all.

Remember, never push the kitten to the point of fear or else the kitten will retreat and not train in fear.

Training your kitten or puppy will take some time. Always use some clicks and treats for training, as it's the best way for them to learn new commands. Remember that the results will bring rewarding benefits for the pet, so alter strategies and see the result. 

If you are new to this training process, taking one step at a time is better, and it will save time and not create any hassle.