It’s National Dog Training Month! Are you starting 2021 out with a puppy? Congratulations on your furry new arrival! That first year is a very important one for dogs. Little Fido has lots of growing to do, and lots to learn. You’ve got some pet parenting on your 2021 agenda! Here, a Seminole, FL vet lists some things to teach your canine pal this year.
Training is a definite must! This isn’t just about manners: it’s also crucial for safety reasons. The most important commands are Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. Teach little Fido these before showing him silly tricks.
Dental problems are very widespread in dogs. However, there are things you can do at home to keep your pup’s teeth healthy. Brushing, of course, is the most beneficial. Your future self will thank you for training Fido to accept a toothbrush from the start!
Another thing you want to get your little buddy used to early is having his paws handled. Teach your canine companion that he’ll get a yummy treat for giving you his furry foot!
Even if you don’t plan to crate Fido every day, it’s important for him to be comfortable and familiar with being crated. After all, he’ll eventually need to be crated, either for travel or when at the vet’s or groomer’s.
Good grooming is absolutely key to Fido’s health, even if he doesn’t see it that way. Teach your pooch that getting brushed and bathed is just part of being a dog. (Tip: offering him treats after his beauty sessions will help sweeten the deal.)
In addition to these things, you’ll also need to work on socialization. This is absolutely crucial to little Fido’s mental and emotional development, and must happen while he is still young. While the pandemic can make this a bit tricky, there are still things you can do. Have one or two people at a time stop over, and have an outdoor puppy play date.
Dogs can form incredibly powerful bonds with their humans. However, that friendship has to be nurtured. Pay lots of attention to little Fido, and keep that tail going!
Please contact us, your Seminole, FL veterinary clinic, for your puppy’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!
