12 secrets to teaching a Westie puppy to obey

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️ Note: While the tips below will get you on the right track, they are no substitute for a professional puppy training course. Consider researching an online training program (we like SpiritDog’s Perfect Obedience progress Classroom of K9 Viện Institute)

1. Start Raising Your Westie Puppy Early

One of the most important secrets to successful puppy training is to start early. It’s never too early to start teaching your puppy basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come here.” Early training helps set clear boundaries and expectations, making it easier for your puppy to learn good behavior.

2. With a Westie puppy, consistency is key

Consistency is very important when training puppies. Make sure everyone in your family is consistent and uses the same commands and rewards. This helps your Westie puppy understand the desired behavior and avoid confusion. Remember, consistency in your approach, schedule, and expectations will pave the way for a well-trained canine companion.

3. Positive reinforcement with your Westie

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in puppy training. It involves rewarding your Westie with praise, rewards, or playtime whenever they exhibit desired behavior. This approach helps your puppy associate good behavior with positive outcomes, making them more likely to repeat the action in the future.

4. Keep your Westie training sessions short and sweet

Puppies have limited attention span, so it is essential to keep training sessions short and engaging. Aim for 10-15 minute sessions, 2-3 times a day. This ensures your Westie remains focused and better at retaining information. Remember, quality over quantity is the key to successful training sessions.

5. Use clear, simple commands with your Westie

When teaching Westie obedience, use clear and simple commands that are easy to understand. Avoid using multiple words for the same command, as this can confuse your puppy. Stick to one-word commands like “sit,” “stay,” “get down,” and “come here” for better results.

6. Be patient with your Westie

Patience is an essential virtue when training puppies. Remember that your Westie is still learning and may not understand everything right away. Stay calm and composed during training sessions, and give the puppies the time they need to grasp new commands. Remember that every puppy is different and some may take longer to learn than others.

7. Socialize with your dog Westie

Socialization is an important aspect of obedient puppy training. Expose your Westie to a variety of environments, people and other animals to help them develop confidence and learn to behave appropriately in different situations. Proper socialization can help prevent behavioral problems like aggression and fear in the future.

8. Redirect unwanted behavior

Instead of punishing your Westie for unwanted behavior, direct them to a positive alternative. For example, if your puppy bites furniture or shoes, give them a chew toy instead. Not only will this approach discourage negative behavior, but it will also help your puppy understand the proper outlets for their energy and instincts.

9. Set realistic expectations

It is essential to set realistic expectations for the puppy’s progress during obedience training. Remember, puppies learn at different speeds, and expecting too soon can lead to frustration for both you and your Westie. Be prepared to invest time and effort into training and celebrate small milestones along the way.

10. Avoid punishment-based training

Punishment-based training techniques, such as shouting or corporal punishment, can damage your relationship with Westie and hinder their learning. Focus on positive reinforcement and redirection to cultivate a trusting relationship with your puppy and encourage long-term good behavior.

11. Teach your Westie the “Leave It” and “Drop It” commands

The two essential commands for any Westie puppy are “leave him” and “put him away”. These commands help prevent your puppy from picking up dangerous or unwanted items, and they can save their life in certain situations. Start by teaching “walk away” to instruct your puppy not to touch something and then “drop it” for situations where your puppy has picked up an object they shouldn’t have. Be patient and use positive reinforcement to help your dog grasp these important commands.

12. Try an online dog training course

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may encounter challenges in teaching your Westie puppy to be obedient. In such cases, do not hesitate to seek professional help. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can provide valuable guidance and training techniques customized to your puppy’s needs. Remember that there is no shame in asking for help, and doing so can have significant benefits for both you and your puppy.

Our 2 favorite online courses are:

first. SpiritDog’s “Perfect Obedience” Course

The The perfect dog kit is an online dog training program designed to help dog owners become obedient pets. The comprehensive course covers basic obedience, walking on a loose leash, and includes additional mini-courses on training routines and rewards, stopping jumping, and breaking up anxiety solutions. With lifetime access to expert coaches for personalized feedback and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this course aims to provide accessible, effective training for many dog behavior problems.

2. “Dog training class” of K9 Training Institute

More than just an obedience course, This more comprehensive training course Address any behavior problems you may have with your dog.