Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting experience, but knowing when to start training can make all the difference in raising a well-behaved companion. If you’re in Montrose and wondering about the best age to begin, the answer is: as early as possible!
The Ideal Time to Start Puppy Training in Montrose
Experts recommend beginning puppy training as soon as your new furry friend arrives home—typically around 8 weeks old. At this stage, puppies are highly receptive to learning, making it the perfect time to introduce basic obedience and house training. Classes can start as soon as your dog is fully vaccinated and is given the go-ahead from your vet to mix with other dogs.
Why Early Training Matters
Starting early helps prevent bad habits from forming. Puppies are like sponges, and without guidance, they may develop unwanted behaviours that are harder to correct later on. Early training also builds confidence and a sense of security, as a structured approach using positive reinforcement techniques for puppies fosters trust. Additionally, socialisation during the critical window between 3-16 weeks ensures your puppy is comfortable in different environments, but socialisation isn’t about playing with other dogs. It’s about teaching your puppy that other dogs are neither a positive nor a negative thing, and that you are the best thing in the world.
Positive Reinforcement: The Best Training Method
When it comes to training, positive reinforcement techniques for puppies are the most effective. This science-backed method rewards desired behaviours with treats, praise, or playtime, encouraging puppies to repeat them. This approach boosts motivation, as puppies quickly learn that good behaviour brings rewards. It also strengthens your bond, as encouraging rather than punishing builds trust and a positive relationship. Puppies trained with positive reinforcement tend to enjoy learning and develop a lifelong love for training.
Building a Strong Bond and Confidence in Your Puppy
It is more important to focus on developing a strong bond with your puppy rather than just teaching commands. Training should centre around building focus, confidence, and ensuring your puppy sees you as a fun and safe presence. The key to a well-behaved dog is having a puppy that wants to engage with you, rather than simply responding to commands. By making training sessions enjoyable and stress-free, you are fostering a relationship where your puppy naturally looks to you for guidance and reassurance.
Finding the Right Puppy Trainer Near Johnshaven, Montrose
For the best results, consider professional training services that specialise in positive reinforcement puppy training near Johnshaven, Montrose. A certified dog trainer can provide structured guidance, helping your puppy develop good habits from the start. When selecting a trainer, look for someone who exclusively uses positive reinforcement methods and avoids punishment-based techniques. Check for experience and certifications such as IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) accreditation, and ensure that class sizes are small enough to allow for individual attention and proper socialisation opportunities.
Exclusive Puppy Training in a Unique Setting
My puppy training classes are held in the idyllic location of The Old Potting Shed, near Johnshaven, Montrose DD10. This cosy and purpose-designed training area provides a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, far removed from the impersonal setting of large group training in a village hall. With only three dogs per class, each puppy receives the individual attention needed for optimal learning and confidence-building.
Each training session is designed to set you and your puppy up for success. You’ll receive weekly printed handouts, WhatsApp support, and online videos of the exercises covered in each session, ensuring you can continue practising at home with ease. With over 15 years of experience, I have worked with a wide variety of dogs, tailoring my approach to suit each individual pup’s needs.
I currently share my home with a Chihuahua, a Pomeranian x Chihuahua, a Dalmatian, and a Spaniel, giving me first hand experience with a diverse range of breeds and temperaments. I understand the quirks, challenges, and joys that come with different personalities, and I bring that real-life experience into every training session. I love seeing dogs and their owners thrive together, and I’m passionate about helping you build the best relationship possible with your pup. Having spent years helping dogs and their humans connect, I know that every dog is different, and I work with each one as an individual, ensuring they feel safe, happy, and understood.
Take Action: Start Training Today!
Puppy training is an investment in a lifetime of good behaviour and companionship. Whether you start at home or enrol in puppy training in Montrose, taking that first step early will set your pup up for success. Training should be about making you the best thing in your puppy’s world, creating a confident and well-adjusted companion for life.
If you’d like to give your puppy the best start, I’d love to help! Get in touch today to book a class or ask any questions. I’ll be happy to chat about how we can work together to build a fantastic future for you and your pup!
With over 15 years of experience in dog training, Laura Carter has dedicated her career to enhancing the bond between humans and their canine companions.
Based in Scotland, Laura lives with her twin daughters, four dogs, and a variety of other animals.
A member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) and a certified Scentwork UK instructor, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work.
Her expertise in dog care and rehabilitation is showcased in the book The Vet Says Rest, a valuable resource for pet owners navigating their dogs’ recovery.
Laura also brought her passion for dogs to a wider audience as a trainer on Channel 4’s Superstar Dogs alongside John Barrowman.
Her work continues to inspire and support dog owners everywhere, helping them build happier, healthier relationships with their pets.