I love Kongs. But there is a Kong conundrum:
They are beloved, classic toys with a million and one uses.
Yet, they are THE toys that my clients complain about the most. I know that’s partially because Kongs are so popular that nearly every dog guardian has one. But the main complaint is, “My dog won’t play with it.” So, I wrote this post to help you & your dogs love your Kongs again!
I don’t know a trainer who isn’t restless around puppy season — For me, that includes kitten season, too.
That what’s-cuter-than-kittens? time of year is upon us again. Are you expecting the pitter-patter of four tiny furry paws in your home? You’re in for a simultaneously adorable, confounding, & sleep deprived rest-of-the-year. So I would be remiss if I didn’t temporarily don my critter-coach cap out of sheer compassion for you: I just wrote the instruction manuals you’ll need for your new family member.
To successfully house train your puppy, keep these important rules in mind:
- Regulate food and water intake.
- Repetition & consistency help Pup learn faster.
- Praise makes learning fun & faster.
- Confinement & supervision prevent indoor accidents.
- Patience is a virtue.
The Basics, chew toys (and what to avoid) — plus suggested readings
- Crates: for larger dogs, get one (plastic or nylon) to fit Puppy now for the car. Get a second crate (wire, with 2 doors & a divider panel) for the house. Make it large enough to be comfy for your puppy to lay down, stretch out, stand up & turn around in — as an adult. Use the divider panel to adjust the crate size as Pup grows. Grant Pup more space in her crate as she matures & learns not to soil it.
- Separate food & water bowls: Stainless steel or heavy glass bowls are healthier than plastic or glazed ceramic ones.
Food & treats: Get a high quality diet from your vet, breeder, feed store or online. Ask your trainer for healthy treat recommendations. Avoid brands sold in grocery & drug stores.
Hey, we know you’re busy.
Whether it’s summer activities, back-to-school prep, or hectic holidays — life happens.
You put pet training on the back burner because it’s just one more thing on your overflowing, overwhelming to-do list. You’ll get to it later. Besides, how on Earth could you possibly divide up your attention & time any further?
The Soulful Pet: Where the synergy of science and soul benefits humans, pets, and the bonds they share.
Image credit for paintings goes to: Mylette Welch and Marylu Downing
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