Are you getting a new puppy? Feeling excited but also a little nervous? There are good reasons for those feelings! Sharing life with a pup can be very fun and fulfilling. Magical, even! It’s so special to build a positive relationship with them and share an active life together. You should be excited!
Getting a puppy is also a significant life change. You’re bringing a baby animal to live in your home. They don’t speak your language, they have sharp teeth, and they depend on you for everything. You’re absolutely not crazy for feeling nervous!
Hiring a dog trainer before you even bring your puppy home can make this transition much easier for you and your puppy. I know it may sound odd to hire a dog trainer before you actually get your puppy, but hear me out! Here are 3 reasons why you should hire a dog trainer before bringing your puppy home:
1. Have a plan when your puppy comes home.
You spent a lot of time finding the perfect puppy. Picking their name. Shopping for puppy supplies. But do you have a plan for when you carry your puppy into your home for the first time? Or what you’ll do for their first night? Instead of feeling unsure or like you have no idea what to do with this creature, working with a trainer can give you a plan to set you up for success from day one.
2. Prevent problematic behavior.
There is a lot to learn when you get a puppy. And it can be easy to unknowingly make mistakes that could create big issues in the future. What your puppy learns and experiences as a small pup can have a major impact on their behavior as an adult. I don’t say this to scare you, but to empower you.
Rather than waiting for behavior issues to show up, it’s best to prevent them from happening in the first place. It’s much easier to prevent frustrating behavior than it is to change it once it’s happening. Early puppy support also helps save yourself from a lot of frustration and stress.
3. Enjoy your puppy more.
You’re getting a puppy for a reason. And I’m going to guess that reason isn’t to feel stressed out, overwhelmed, and frustrated. You got your puppy because you want a fun, active life together. You envision your pup accompanying you on outdoor adventures. Exploring new places together with friends. You’re getting a puppy because you want to enjoy life with a dog. Raising the confident, happy, well-behaved dog you dream of starts from the moment you bring them home.
A trainer can give you support to maintain peace in your home and bring out the best in your puppy. So you can spend a lot more time enjoying your new friend, instead of feeling in over your head.
When you get your puppy, you’re getting a companion that is going to spend 10, 15, or even 20 years with you.
My Peak Puppy Potential Program is all about setting you and your puppy up for success now so that you can enjoy many years of harmony and adventure together. I would love to be on your team from day one to help you raise a puppy that is enjoyable to be with at home and in public.
Private, in-home training and socialization is offered to puppy owners in the Chicago suburbs. Virtual training is available worldwide.
If you’re interested in giving your puppy the best start for a fun, adventurous life together, book a free consultation with me HERE.