Teach Your Pup Two Commands to Keep Him Safe

Many dog owners do not have the time to give their puppies basic dog training. But as a dog owner, you have the responsibility to keep your pet out of any harm. The surest way to prevent unfortunate accidents is by teaching him a few basic commands that he needs to instantly obey. 'Leave it' and 'Drop it' are simple enough for him to comprehend, respond and remember. These commands are used to stop the puppy from accidentally gulping down rat poison or scampering towards an approaching car.

Teach Your Pup to 'Leave it'

Place some food or a toy along the path you take your pup for a walk. As the pup walks by the object, he is will head straight for it. Tug at his leash and say 'Leave it'. He should understand that you want him to walk by without touching the object.

Basic dog training may take a while but keep at it. Try different methods to help him understand the command better. Praise him whenever he responds correctly and give him a treat to eat. Work on this while you are at home as well. Pick a tasty treat he is fond of and close your hand over it. Do not give it to him but wait till he gets curious and sniffs at your hand. Firmly say 'Leave it' and wait for him to respond. If he stops and waits for a bit, say 'okay' and then, open your hand and feed him the treat. In time, he will understand that if he obeys the command, he will get a reward.

Teach Your Pup to 'Drop it'

Puppies are inquisitive, and are always smelling and picking up objects lying around. 'Drop it' is a basic dog training command to teach your dog to drop the object. If he refuses and runs away, try to get him to trade the object for a yummy treat. When he responds, pat him on the head and give him his reward.

If he runs or frolics around, do not chase him. Walk over to the kitchen and whip up something that smells tempting and delicious. Go to an area of your home where your pup is allowed to eat and pretend to wolf it down yourself. Put on a good act to get him thinking you are eating something delicious. If he comes over, repeat the command and offer the food in exchange for the object. Once he obeys the basic dog training command, give him the treat, pat him and provide him a suitable toy to play with.