Skeptics might think this is nonsense, but recent research shows otherwise. Thanks to ultrasound machines, which can take pictures of puppies in their mother’s womb, researchers have found that puppies will respond to touch or pressure on their mother’s abdomen as early as four weeks into pregnancy. This amazing discovery has shown that petting a pregnant dog will produce a litter of puppies that are more docile and have a well-developed sense of touch. This in turn helps with relaxation, emotional attachment and most importantly, socialization with people, according to dog experts.

Good training also sets up a clear line of communication between a dog and an owner. Think of it this way: Suppose you found yourself in a foreign country where you didn’t speak the language. When you try to get something to eat, to get a job or even go to the bathroom, you don’t know how to ask for what you want. All people do is yell at you in words you don’t understand.

Good socialization is one of the key factors in puppy training. Dogs are social animals by nature, so they respond to interaction with other animals and with humans. This natural trait is what makes dog training possible. Through training dogs develop a strong understanding and trust bond with their owners, who establish their leadership roles through instruction.

However, all puppies go through a period of “stranger avoidance” between six and 12 weeks. This is a natural fear that develops as a way to keep puppies safe from predators. During this time puppies exhibit more “startle” reactions to sounds and sudden movements. These reactions keep a pup safe, but they also could interfere with establishing relationships with people. That’s why it best not to rush a puppy through these behavioral period. Let it get its bearings first.

Dog training teaches pet owners as much as it teaches pets. By attending classes at local pet stores, kennels or with independent dog trainers, owners learn more than just how to control their dogs. They learn how to foster their dog’s health and well-being, from what kind of dog food to provide to what human foods can be dangerous, possibly even fatal, to their pets.

If a puppy is properly settled into a home, basic dog training, also known as obedience training, can begin in earnest around 12 weeks, or after a puppy has had all its vaccinations. By this time, a puppy that has been correctly socialized is ready to begin learning how to behave appropriately by following its owner’s instructions.

One thing that is never, never, never appropriate in dog training is to strike, hit or physically abuse a dog in any way. Dogs, especially puppies, quickly become devoted to their owners and physical abuse will destroy that relationship. Always train a dog with firmness, but with patience and lots of love.

Dogs can become more loyal, obedient, and affectionate towards their owners through vigorous puppy training. Enroll your canine companion in some dog training Kelowna today!