For many first time puppy owners or might i say fur baby parents it is a scary, nerve racking time. Being so in love with this new lovable creature in your life, being responsible for the overall health and well being and maintaining the busy life style that we all try to live!
The trick is to pay attention, try to set the puppy up for success, and enjoy the ride because the time goes by very fast. Learning to be a leader without using words is key to creating a balanced environment for your dog to grow. A hard bone and a few toys is always important to have around so your dog does not turn toward using your shoes or other personal items as their play toy.
The most effective way to keep your dog balanced is knowing their breed and giving them a lot of what the breed is naturally driven by. ie water dogs, duck hunting dogs, or bird dogs. one thing almost every single dog has in common is the need to get a lot of running and exercise every day, much like us humans when we are at our best or feeling our best is after a long hard workout and a good meal!
Having a puppy and becoming a leader teaches you more then anything to trust yourself, and to trust in others. Being willing to put your faith in your best friend, or your dog is much in the same. Allowing your dog to meet new people and new animals and trusting that they wont run away or bite anyone comes from within you as the leader of the pack. always remember that the feelings you have your dog will feel, and if you feel nervous or threatened they will react, so learning to trust yourself is the only way to set your puppy up for success.
Try to set an expectation for your puppy and know there is no reason to praise a dog for behaving how you expect them to. When things are going well and your dog is in a calm submissive state is always a perfect time to to show love and appreciation for the relationship you are privileged to share with each other.
It takes a lot of time and consistency to meet your dogs needs but it is well worth it, and after the first two years it becomes much easier so hang in there and become the leader within.
