Here’s Why You Should Prioritize Building Trust with Your New Puppy
There is much debate in training circles about positive vs. negative reinforcement. However, new research reveals that using positive reinforcement to train your new puppy can build trust in your relationship and lead to fewer behavioral issues down the line.
What is Positive Reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement refers to the practice of rewarding your dog for good behavior or correct responses to cue words. This is contrary to negative reinforcement, which relies on discipline to discourage bad behavior.
Unfortunately, using discipline as a training tool can sometimes make your dog fearful of you, damaging their sense of trust. On the other hand, using treats, attention, and praise to encourage your dog to do what you want them to do can build their confidence and make them feel close to you.
3 Training Tips
Be Consistent
Dogs respond to routine in their lives. Being able to anticipate when their needs will be met, like trips outside to potty or meal time, can help them feel safe and better able to respond to what you’re asking of them. Consistency is also important in the words you use to help them learn certain behaviors.
For example, you wouldn’t want to switch between the words down and off when you are trying to teach your puppy not to jump on you. This is because they might become confused.
Be Patient
Like with any child or other animal, learning for a new puppy takes time and will not always be easy. When you are feeling frustrated, take a breath and remember that you are simply working with your dog to bridge a communication gap.
It is as much your responsibility to learn how to respond to what they are asking for as it is for them to respond to what you are asking for. Thinking of your relationship with your dog in this way will also help to build trust.
Make Sure They Get Exercise
If a dog has a lot of pent-up energy from lack of exercise, they are more likely to be hyper and act out. It is essential for your dog to have opportunities throughout the day not just for physical exercise, but for mental stimulation as well. Ensuring they have outlets for their abundant energy will lead to a happier, more obedient pup.
Trust Get Joy
If there is one thing you can rely on when training a new puppy, it’s that treats are a great tool. Particularly for food-motivated dogs, offering a high-value treat in response to a desired behavior is one of the best ways to teach your dog. For all your new puppy needs, visit Get Joy’s website today. We’re here to help you thrive!
