Getting Started Week Three - Humans Before Canines...


Insist that Puppy wait and allow you to go through doorways first. This helps communicate that you expect respect.  Canine's consider going through a doorway first as a privilege of rank.

English as a Second Language
Going in and out doorways is a good time to teach and practice vocabulary with Puppy. Tell Puppy to "Wait" with a hand signal like a stop sign. Say, "Okay"  or "Inside" or "Outside" to cue Puppy to go through the doorway after you. The word "wait" means remain in this general area. Only use the word, "stay" after cueing <<&Key2> to hold a position first such as "sit-stay" or "stand-stay" or "down-stay". 

Do NOT say, "come" unless you mean, "come close, face me and sit". Instead, say, "let's go"  to cue Puppy to walk with you.  When on a walk, say, "easy" if Puppy starts to pull on the leash. If Puppy does not slow down, then give a little, quick tug-release and stop until Puppy puts slack back in the leash. 

Whoa Nelly!
Never move forward when Puppy is pulling or  if the leash is tight. ALWAYS keep a loose leash. Use treats initially to show Puppy how to walk by your side. Practice "sit" at your side to help keep Puppy's focus on you. Then, release and allow Puppy to sniff and have a little more freedom as a reward. Treats should be less than 10% of a puppies daily diet.