I’m a person 
– it’s a dog 
– so why would I expect the dog to do human? We humans are so arrogant in our ‘master of the universe’ attitude that we choose to bring another species into our homes and then expect it/them to change to suit us. We shout and moan, smack and punish, teach it “I’m the boss”…yeah, right! We expect the animal to know what we want without teaching what that means, then feel justified in dishing out punishment because our wishes are not obeyed. We know that keeping a pet is expensive, but we moan about vet fees, training fees, food prices, and ask for discount or head off for the animal welfare to help us out. I despair for the human race when we cannot even get the pet thing right, never mind bringing up our kids, or world peace!
Ok, rant over for now…but did you know that the majority of puppies don’t get to see their 2nd birthday? That’s why I do puppy classes, and love my clients who bring their babies while they’re still cute to begin on the right path so that their dogs will become truly part of the family, a joy and not a burden. They’re the good guys and I respect them for trying to do things the right way.
Another book I’ve downloaded is by Ian Dunbar, vet and behaviourist extraordinaire: “Before You Get Your Puppy“. Here’s his take on what needs to be taught asap, preferably pre 16 weeks:
The Most Important Things To Teach Your Puppy
2. Socialization with People
3. Household Etiquette
4. Home Alone
5. Sit and Settle Down Commands
6. Dog-Dog Socialization
The Most Urgent Things To Teach Your Puppy
1. Household Etiquette
2. Home Alone
3. Socialization with People
4. Dog-Dog Socialization
5. Sit and Settle Down Commands
6. Bite Inhibition
If these basics are instilled then the next steps are easier, and having a fluffy companion becomes a pleasure, not a stress.
rosespuppyschool 