New owners actually begin training their puppy as soon as it comes into their home; housebreaking can start as earlier as 8 weeks. There are 2 different ways to get obedience training for your dog. You can learn in a group setting, or work one on one with a professional trainer. Training the owner is key, because, rather than training your dog, you should be learning how to teach your dog, reinforcing the techniques you’ve both learned between training sessions. Training will be most effective if all family members take part in the training or reinforce it at home to ensure consistency. Group classes will also help socialize a dog to other people and dogs.

A puppy should not be brought to a group setting until it has completed all required vaccinations (around 4 months of age). “ Puppy Kindergarten” is a popular way to train young dogs.

A puppy, just like a child, requires discipline, consistency, and patience. Owners need to take the time to train their puppy as well as take steps to make their home safe. The puppy training phase is an important part of raising a healthy and happy dog in a safe home environment.

Basic (or beginner's) obedience is typically a short course ranging from 6-10 weeks where owners learn how to communicate with and train their dog in a few simple commands. Walking properly on a leash, (heeling) is often the first training required prior to learning other commands. Obedience training is often a prerequisite for more advanced training- you must be able to control your dog and they should be able comply immediately with every command given.

Advanced Obedience Training and more

Once you’ve mastered the basic commands, maybe you and your dog are ready to take it to the next level. The American and United Kennel Clubs (AKC and UKC) offer titles in Competition Obedience. Agility is also a great sport to try with your dog.

Some links for more info:
LI-Dog Resources and Links ( www.lidog.org )
Long Island Agility ( www.liagility.com )

About the Author
Pamela Fitzpatrick lives in Sayville with her family (which of course includes pets).  She has a Masters degree in Animal Behavior, and is the Event Coordinator for Have-a-Heart-Adopt-a Pet, a local organization which promotes animal adoptions.  Pam is also the owner of Sayville's Hydrangea Cottage and YourDogWalkers, providing petsitting and dog walking services to Sayville and surrounding towns.  Suggestions and ideas for column topics are welcome, email shihtzu58@optonline.net