When Should I Start Training My Irish Oodle Puppy?
Welcoming an Irish Oodle puppy into your home is pure joy. Those big, puppy eyes, that soft, fluffy coat—what’s not to love? But as tempting as it might be to let your new pup get away with anything just because they’re cute, the truth is that training should start from the very first day. Trust me, it’s easier to set the rules now than to try to undo bad habits later.
Why Start Training from Day One?
Your Irish Oodle is a smart, eager-to-please breed, and they’re ready to learn from the moment they step paw into your home. Starting training from Day One helps your puppy understand what’s expected of them, and it sets the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior. But here’s the key—keep the training age-appropriate and consistent, so your pup knows exactly where they stand.
The Power of Voice, Praise, and Cuddles
Who needs treats when you’ve got the power of your voice, praise, and cuddles? Irish Oodles respond incredibly well to positive reinforcement, and for them, your approval is the highest reward. A kind word, a belly rub, or a warm cuddle goes a long way in making your puppy feel loved and encouraged. So, skip the treat bag and use your affection to guide your pup’s behavior. Now the occasional treat is also ok but you don’t want to have to rely on them. You won’t always have a treat in your pocket and one day the pup will show you the paw. No treat. No go! Don’t let this be you.
Setting the Rules Early
Consistency is your best friend when it comes to training. From the very first day, set the rules that will last a lifetime. For example, if you don’t want your Irish Oodle on the bed when they’re full-grown, don’t let them up there as a puppy, no matter how cute they look! It’s much easier to establish rules from the start than to try to change them later on.
The same goes for jumping up on you. While it might be adorable when your tiny puppy jumps up for attention, it won’t be so cute when they’re bigger. Teach them from Day One that all four paws need to be on the floor before they get any cuddles. This way, they’ll grow up knowing exactly what’s expected.
Building a Bond Before Socializing
Socialization is crucial for any puppy, but before introducing your Irish Oodle to the big, wide world, they need to get to know their new family first. Give your puppy at least five days to settle in and learn who their “parents” are before they meet others. This helps them feel secure and understand who their main caregivers are, laying a solid foundation for socialization later on.
The Importance of Age-Appropriate Training
Your Irish Oodle is a quick learner, but remember to keep training sessions short and sweet. Puppies have short attention spans, so 2 to 5-minute sessions are perfect. It’s better to have several mini-sessions throughout the day than one long session that leaves your puppy feeling overwhelmed. Keep it fun, keep it light, and watch as your pup masters new skills with ease.
Wrapping It Up
Starting training from Day One with your Irish Oodle puppy is the best way to set them up for a happy, well-behaved life. By using your voice, praise, and cuddles as rewards, you’ll build a strong, loving bond with your pup that doesn’t rely on treats. And by setting consistent rules from the start, you’ll avoid the confusion of having to unteach behaviors later on.
So, take those first five days to bond, set the ground rules, and enjoy the journey of watching your Irish Oodle grow into a confident, well-mannered companion. With your guidance and a little imagination, there’s no limit to what your smart, eager-to-please pup can learn!