WHY DOES PUPPY NEED TO LEARN HIS NAME?
It's important for your puppy to learn his name, not only for convenience, but also for safety reasons. As you play outdoors with your puppy at home or at the park, there may be dangers you will want to be ready for. Aggressive dogs or a car headed straight for your puppy, are two good examples of times you will need your pup to respond to his name. It could save his life!
PUPPY VOCABULARY BASICS
Over their life span, pups can learn up to one hundred words or phrases. You will want to begin with his name and build their vocabulary from there. The key is to repeat the name, word or phrase every time you call the puppy or do the activity. Be sure to speak clearly with a firm, but kind tone. Consistency and repetition will be the most important tools to exercise.
TOP TIPS FOR TRAINING YOUR PUPPY/DOG TO LEARN HIS NAME
* Begin training your puppy as soon as you bring him home. Name him quickly and begin saying his name every time you pet him. Smile, speak clearly and pet him lovingly. Avoid baby-talk as it distorts the voice. Soon, your puppy will come to associate his name with petting and positive feelings and will begin coming when you call.
* Use your pup's name with every command, except "No" or anything negative.
* Try to avoid changing your dog's name or using nick names. This can be too confusing for him and can slow his training progress down.
* During the training process, if there is a delay in your dog coming to you after you have called him, you will still want to reward him for coming. Give plenty of pets and smiles!
* Make learning his name into a game. As you are playing with your puppy, wait for his attention to go else where. In a very excited voice, call his name. When he looks at you or comes to you, praise him! Repeat this exercise often, until your dog comes consistently.
