While there are many differences between the way pets think and the way people think, when it comes to training baby pets there are lots of similarities too.
One similarity is consistency. Many people assume that their puppy or kitten will automatically adapt to their family’s schedule. However, like human babies, baby pets need consistency to help them learn their way.
Keep in mind, if you got your new pet over Christmas, a vacation, or during the summer, chances are that your schedule was not initially the “normal” one. With kids being off from school, adults being home more and visitors coming and going, you’ll need to work on helping your pet adjust to your family’s usual schedule.
By following a feeding and watering schedule, housebreaking for puppies and litterbox training for kittens can be accomplished much more quickly. Using the same door each time you walk your puppy outside and keeping the kitten’s litterbox in the same, easily accessible location, is another way to be consistent in training.
Socialization is also important for baby pets. It’s imperative for the responsible adults in the household to make sure that your pet has only positive experiences early on. Socialization with children is an important aspect, but keep in mind that young kids can be overwhelming for pets. Do not allow children to carry the puppy or kitten at all. One accidental drop is all it takes to make a pet fearful and not want to be cuddled in the future, not to mention the danger of a broken leg or injury.
Chewing, jumping and scratching are other areas where your consistency now can pay off in years of enjoying a well-behaved dog or cat. While it may not seem like such a big deal if your tiny puppy jumps or your baby kitten scratches the rug, it certainly will matter when paws and claws get bigger. Be consistent by correcting the behaviors now and teaching your pet appropriate ones instead, such as clawing a scratching post or chewing a dog toy instead of your slippers.
Last but not least, is naptime. Often overlooked, naptime is very important for young pets. Developing babies need naptime to recharge their little brains and bodies, and from a behavioral viewpoint also need to learn when it’s time to relax quietly. Be sure to provide your pet with a safe place in which to rest and stay out of mischief, such as a wire crate (if using one for a kitten, be sure to put a small litterbox in it) or at least being confined to one room.
By starting off on the right “paw,” your consistency now will pay off in many years of enjoying your grown-up dog or cat.
Lori Verni-Fogarsi has been an author, speaker, small business consultant, and Certified Master Trainer for 18+ years. Her novel, “Momnesia,” (contemporary women’s fiction) has been designated a National Indie Excellence Book Awards Finalist, and her nonfiction book, “Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs,” has been widely acclaimed in its genre. To learn more, please visit www.LoriTheAuthor.com and join Lori on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoriTheAuthor.
