Puppies start learning on their own by the age of 3 weeks, when they are able to see and by the young age of 7 weeks, they have reached the mental development of an adult dog. The myth that dogs couldn’t begin training until 6 months wasn’t due to the fact they couldn’t learn; it was because the military-style training process was too harsh for young puppies to handle. By using positive reinforcement and motivational training, we can begin at a much earlier age. After all, as noted above, the puppy is learning, and can either learn what is acceptable from you or what may not be acceptable by himself.

This is not to say older dogs can’t be taught good behavior; dogs and owners benefit from training regardless of age. Those clients with older dogs shouldn’t be discouraged; learning the basic commands will only help strengthen your bond and start to foster a good leader-follower relationship.

It’s never too young to begin the process!

We train our dogs to open channels of communication. Without training we have no means to make a connection; their world becomes random and unfocused which can easily lead to unwanted behavior. Both dogs and people are pack animals by nature, which is one reason we live so harmoniously together. We have much in common. We live in social groups with our own hierarchy and so do they. Hierarchy is important in our lives because it gives us structure. From the beginning it is important to establish yourself as the “leader of the pack,” and this is achieved by implementing early training and socialization.  “Leader of the pack” simply means that your dog listens to you regardless of the circumstance because he trusts your decision. They don’t do this by an intellectual process but rather taking our cues. Even the most basic of commands used on a daily basis can achieve the almighty “leader of the pack.” We begin by having our dogs work for what they want, meaning if they want something, they have to earn it…you want a toy, food, jump on my lap? Then you have to perform a command, e.g. “sit.” By doing so, we are consistently reinforcing who we are in their lives. We are the providers. When your dog understands his place in your “pack” he will become a confident, happy dog and will transcend from being a pet to being a companion. 

Enjoy the journey!