Find the answers to your puppy behavior and training questions with these expert articles. Plus, we’ve got answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Training | Socialization | Classes & Commands | Behavior | Anxiety & Stress | Body Language & Communication | Exercise
Your new puppy is going to have accidents. It’s part of the whole puppyhood experience. Learning to eliminate outside or on potty pads seems like a daunting task, but with consistency and positive reinforcement (and a little patience!), your puppy will be going to the bathroom like a pro in no time.
Your puppy is most open to new people and experiences right now! Soon, after around 3 months of age, you may notice that your puppy is more hesitant to approach unfamiliar people or places.
Keeping in mind that your puppy is also more susceptible to disease at this age, you may be wondering when you can safely start puppy classes. Combined with at-home puppy training basics, puppy classes can help train and socialize your puppy early on.
Your puppy is your best friend, so we don’t doubt that you know your puppy very well—you know them better than anyone! But these 4 puppy facts might teach you something new about your bestie!
You’re your puppy’s favorite person—while this strong bond is amazing, it sometimes means that your puppy misses you intensely when you’re not around. The first step of handling separation anxiety is to get your veterinarian involved, but in the meantime, consider trying out these tips.
What is normal puppy behavior as they move through their teen months? How long does this puppy behavior last? You’ll want to know what to expect during your puppy’s adolescence and when medical or behavioral intervention might be necessary.
When it comes to coping with boundless energy, intentional physical exercise is a great way to help your dog feel more at ease. Learn more about our recommendations for exercising your puppy.
Check off the essential tasks that will help your new puppy grow healthy and strong at each age and stage.
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Even if you don’t notice it, you’re training your puppy from the first day you bring them home with you by exposing them to different sights, smells and sounds. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends starting puppy socialization classes as early as 7 to 8 weeks of age. Speak with your VCA care team about when to start puppy training classes to get your pet started early!
In early puppyhood, you want to focus your puppy training on potty training, socialization and basic commands. Make sure to introduce your puppy to a variety of different people, sounds and more. Basic commands to work on include “sit” and “come”. You should also start crate training from day one, which will set the foundation for potty training.
Normal puppy behavior includes inquisitive and rambunctious exploration of their surroundings, such as mouthing and chewing, jumping on people, tugging on items and wrestling games. Your puppy may also have accidents in the home, so keep using positive reinforcement methods through this stage.
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