🐾 Training Your Dog
🏡 House Training
A practical guide to house training, behaviour shaping, and raising a well‑mannered puppy
House training your puppy takes time, patience, and consistency. Every dog learns at a different pace, but a positive, structured routine will help your pup succeed.
Most accidents happen when puppies wander unsupervised. Keep an eye on your pup and take them outside frequently, especially:
- After eating
- After drinking
- After waking up
- After playing
Every 3–4 hours during the day
Puppies learn best through positive reinforcement. They don’t naturally know which behaviours are right or wrong — it’s your job to teach them.
🐶 Reward the Behaviour You Want
When your puppy behaves correctly, reward them with treats, praise, or play. This builds strong habits and confidence.
⭐ Use Positive Reinforcement
Show your puppy the designated toileting area and reward immediately when they go in the right spot. Rewards can include treats, praise, or a quick play session. This helps your dog understand exactly which behaviour you want.
👀 Supervise Indoors
🚫 Avoid Punishment
Reprimanding your puppy can make them anxious and may cause them to hide when toileting. Staying calm and consistent is far more effective.
🧼 Clean Accidents Properly
If your puppy has an accident indoors, clean the area with a non‑ammonia based cleaner to remove odours and prevent repeat mistakes.
Remember: some puppies take longer than others. Most setbacks occur simply because the puppy wasn’t taken outside in time.
🎓 General Puppy Training
🔄 Redirect Unwanted Behaviour
If your puppy does something inappropriate, gently redirect them. Example: If they chew furniture, offer a chew toy instead and reward them for using it.
Ignoring minor unwanted behaviours while rewarding good ones can also be very effective.
Socialising your puppy from eight weeks of age helps them grow into a friendly, confident adult dog. Puppy Pre‑school classes are a great way to:
- Build confidence
- Learn basic commands
- Meet other dogs
- Strengthen your bond
🤝 Socialisation & Early Training
🐕 Preventing Problem Behaviours
Behaviours like barking, digging, and chewing often happen when puppies are bored. Keep your dog busy with:
- Regular play sessions
- Daily walks
- Short training exercises
- Quiet bonding time
- Mentally stimulating toys
Some behavioural issues may appear during adolescence, so early training and socialisation are essential for long‑term success.
Contact Information
Opening Hours
Principal Pets
184 Telegraph Road
Heswall
Merseyside
CH60 0AJ
Tel: 0151 342 9635
Email: info@principalpets.co.uk
VAT : 178 3864 58
Free Local Delivery
Monday Closed
Tuesday 09:00 to 17:30
Wednesday 09:00 to 17:30
Thursday 09:00 to 17:30
Friday 09:00 to 17:30
Saturday 09:00 to 17:30
Sunday Closed