Do not underestimate the power of play! Whether you have introduced a new puppy or a new dog to your household, the importance of teaching your dog to play is pivotal. Play seems like such a small part of the owner/dog relationship, but it can be used to develop later training skills such as come when called and sit on command.

To develop your dog into a great dog, play is the ticket. However, playing with your dog involves more than just merely throwing a toy back and forth. Louis recommends four steps in the play process. First, gain the attention of your puppy, show them the toy, throw the toy within their line of sight and get quiet. Second, allow the puppy to pick up the toy and then praise (Yes! Good dog!) . Third, reward the puppy when they get back with the toy (Way to go! Yeah!), but do not take the toy away from the puppy. Fourth, allow the puppy to drop the toy in front of you, do not take the toy from the puppy because it trains them to either run away from you or not to come to you. Repeat the steps in the play process and have fun with your family pet.

Through playing, encouraging, and guiding, your puppy will learn to come when called, pay attention to your voice, and come to you for fun as well for exercise. Play is a pleasurable activity for your dog and why not use it to develop obedience, control and eye contact. For a demonstration of how to correctly play with your puppy, visit the Wonderdog website.

Probably the most difficult task of getting a new puppy is the housebreaking. Louis offers some useful tips in the housebreaking process:

There is no magic to house breaking; it is really common sense and an understanding of your dog. For further information on training and a free housebreaking instructional
video, please visit the Wonderdog website.