Pugs are lovable and energetic little dogs. However, they can also be stubborn, prone to separation anxiety, and generally hard to train. That’s why it’s essential to train your pug in a way that’s safe for both of you. Even if it is a hard decision, it is important to say “I’ll do my homework and learn hard first” to make sure you are training your pug in the best way possible.
This article will teach you everything from basic commands like sit, stay, and more. In addition, it will cover topics such as crate training and leash training. You’ll also learn how to use positive reinforcement techniques during training so your pug will love being around you and want to obey your commands.
Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you get started in no time:
Table of Contents
Assess Your Dog’s Personality
Before starting obedience training, assessing your dog’s personality is important. The pug is a friendly and affectionate dog that loves to be around people. These qualities make the pup a great family companion but can also make them challenging to train.
Pugs are also known for their stubbornness and disobedience. They’ll learn much faster if you provide positive reinforcement during training. Since they’re sensitive, they don’t like being scolded or yelled at. They’ll only respond well when they feel loved and appreciated during the learning process, especially when they have done something right.
The best way to start the training is by keeping in mind that all dogs can be trained regardless of their breed or personality traits. You just need patience and motivation to teach your pug some basic commands before moving on to more advanced commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. If you’re having a challenging time, you can always seek help from professional dog trainers like those from https://www.allbreeds.biz/.
Teach Basic Commands
There are many basic commands that you can teach your pug. These are the foundation for all other commands and will help you communicate more effectively with your dog.
Here are some of the most basic commands:
- Sit: This command is used to get your dog to sit on his haunches. This is a good position for them to be in when they’re waiting for something or someone or just to get them to stop moving around.
- Stay: This command means no matter what happens, the dog shouldn’t move from where they are until you tell them it’s okay to do so. This can be used when training a dog to walk on a leash or if you want them to stay put while you get something off the countertop or in another room.
- Down: This command means your dog should lie down on its belly with its feet tucked under its body, like an airplane going down for landing. This is useful when teaching a dog not to jump up on visitors or family members who might not appreciate being jumped on by an excited pup.
- Come: This is probably one of the most important commands for any owner to teach their dog because it ensures they have control over their pet no matter what happens, such as in an emergency situation or when they’re playing in a fenced-in yard or park where there are other people around.
- Heel: This command tells your dog to walk alongside you while keeping pace with your steps. To teach this behavior, walk around with treats in each hand until your pug follows along happily right beside you. The goal is for your dog not to pull on the leash or stray too far ahead or behind.
The best way to train a dog is to start early and be consistent. Training your dog can take place in various situations, but it’s best to begin with simple commands like sit and stay.
Select A Crate For Your Pug
A dog crate is one of the best training tools available. It’s a safe and secure place for your puppy to call home when you’re not there. A crate can also be helpful for potty training, as it prevents your pug from pottying on the carpet.
Here are some tips for choosing a good dog crate:
- The crate size should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie comfortably. While this varies from breed to breed, it’s a good idea to get a crate at least 24 inches high.
- Make sure that the wire mesh is sturdy enough to prevent your dog from biting through it and choking on any of the metal pieces. Also, the wire mesh should not be closer than one inch apart.
- Choose a crate with dividers if you plan on using it for training purposes or if you need to separate multiple dogs in one room. This will also allow you to take one out of the crate without having them come out all at once.
- A wire crate is cheap and easy to clean but isn’t as durable as plastic or wood. Plastic crates can be made from either hard or soft plastic, with the latter being easier on your pup’s paws. Wood crates are very sturdy but expensive and heavy.
A good crate will keep your pug safe and secure until your pup becomes more accustomed to the surroundings. On the other hand, an unsuitable crate will create problems for you and your dog.
Choose The Right Treats
Treats are used as rewards for good behavior, so you want them to be tasty and appealing. However, you don’t want to overindulge your pup with treats, or they could become a distraction during training sessions.
Here are some tips for choosing the right treats for your pooch:
- Size Matters: The size of the treats should be small enough that your pup can eat it in one bite without chewing on it too long. Try out different sizes before deciding which ones work best for your dog.
- Variety Is Key: Dogs like variety just as much as humans do. Keep this in mind when choosing treats, so they don’t get bored with the same old thing every time they’re rewarded for good behavior.
- Taste Matters Too: Just like humans, dogs have different tastes when it comes to food. Some pugs prefer sweet treats, while others prefer savory ones. Try out various flavors until you find one that suits your dog’s preferences.
Different types of treats are available for dogs, but some work better than others for training purposes.
Pick The Right Leash And Collar
When it comes to training your pug, picking the right leash and collar is essential. You want something comfortable for your dog yet strong enough to handle its weight.
Leashes can be made from nylon, leather, or even metal chains. Nylon is the most popular option because it’s lightweight and easy to clean. Leather leashes are more durable than nylon ones but are also heavier and more expensive. Metal chains aren’t recommended because they can cause injuries if your pug pulls too hard on them.
Collars should also be made from nylon or leather with no sharp edges or metal parts that could hurt your dog if it gets caught on anything while walking around outside. You should also avoid using collars with buckles or clasps since these can easily break during training sessions and cause injury to your pet’s neck or face if they become tangled in them while running around in open spaces.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a method of training dogs that relies on rewarding them for good behavior. It can be anything from praise, treats, or playtime and even physical contact like hugs, belly rubs, or pats on the back. It’s all about what motivates your dog and what they enjoy most.
Some people use negative reinforcement in pug obedience training, which involves punishing unacceptable behavior to discourage the dog from repeating it. This can sometimes lead to aggression in dogs who learn to associate negative experiences with specific actions rather than understanding that those actions will lead to punishment.
Positive reinforcement takes time and patience but works well when used correctly. The more consistent you are with using positive reinforcement in your pug’s obedience training, the better results you’ll see.
Seek Professional Help If Necessary
Obedience training is essential to a well-behaved pug. This isn’t an excuse to be lazy and let your dog do whatever it wants, but it’s also not a reason to get frustrated when your pug misbehaves.
Pugs are notorious for being stubborn and headstrong. The key to training your pug is patience and consistency. If you want to train your pug quickly, seek the help of expert dog trainers.
Final Thoughts
If you want your pug to be disciplined and well-behaved, keep the above tips in mind. They can help you reach your goals and make you a better owner for your pup.
Pug obedience training is about spending time with your pug, so be sure to make time for this important part of their life. Don’t just focus on their training but also on the opportunity to strengthen your bond with your canine companion.
Remember to be patient: training takes time, but it’s worth it!