Teaching your dog to come when called works for puppies and older dogs—thanks to the power of positive associations and how their brains are wired to learn!”
Here’s why:
➡️ Dogs of all ages learn through classical conditioning—pairing a cue like “with me” with something they love, such as treats or praise, creates a strong emotional connection. You create a value for the dog.
➡️ Puppies thrive on new experiences and form habits quickly, but older dogs can learn just as effectively. While they might take longer to “overwrite” previous habits the same principles apply.
How to Teach:
1️⃣ Start close to your dog and say “with me” in an upbeat tone and reward with a treat they love (can even be their kibble)when they come toward you.
2️⃣ Move slightly away, repeat the cue, and reward again.
3️⃣ Practice several times a day for a few weeks, to create the habit in their brain.
4️⃣. Make sure to always reward while teaching. Then once it is automatic for them you can change your reward to praise or a toy of you choose.
THIS WORKS because over time this creates a neural pathway in their brain—a habit where the cue automatically triggers the behavior. “With me” becomes second nature to your dog, even in distractions.
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool #trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
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✅A puppy’s sensory receptors in their paw pads are more active than in adult dogs. This makes early tactile experiences vital for building their confidence and adaptability!
➡️Puppies are born with soft, highly sensitive paw pads filled with active sensory receptors. These receptors help them learn about the world through touch. But if they’re not exposed to a variety of textures during early puppyhood, they might struggle with new surfaces like wet grass, tile, or gravel later in life.
✅Introducing your puppy to safe, different textures early—like fitness pods, rubber mats, or even sand—helps toughen their paw pads and builds positive associations. This simple step prevents fear of certain surfaces as they grow older.
✅A dog’s paws also play a big role in their balance and stability. Early exposure helps them develop confidence and coordination, setting them up for success in all kinds of environments!
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
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1️⃣ Create a Toy “Treasure Hunt”:�Hide small treats inside puzzle toys or under objects. Encourage your puppy to use their nose to find them. This keeps them engaged mentally and teaches them how to entertain themselves independently.
2️⃣ Use Different Types of Toys:�Offer a variety of toys, including interactive toys, chew toys, and toys that make noise. The change in stimulation will help keep their interest and show them there are many ways to play alone.
3️⃣ Provide a Puppy Playpen or “Play Zone”:�Set up a safe, small area with a few toys. This can be an indoor playpen or a designated space in your home where the puppy can freely explore and entertain themselves. Gradually increase the size of the area as they get more confident playing solo.
4️⃣ Set Up an Obstacle Course for Independent Exploration:�Like the obstacle course in the video, create simple, low-stress challenges using safe objects (cushions, tunnels, low steps) that the puppy can explore by themselves. This will help them associate self-play with fun exploration.
5️⃣ Start with Short Alone Times:�Begin by leaving the puppy with a toy or in a safe space while you’re in the same room. Gradually extend the time you’re not interacting. This teaches them that being alone can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
6️⃣ Introduce “Solo Time” Training:�Teach your puppy that “solo time” means a calm and enjoyable experience. Use calm, soothing music or a favorite blanket in their play area. When they start playing independently, praise them gently or reward them with a treat afterward.�
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpupp
1. Keep Training Sessions Short
Puppies learn best with sessions lasting 2–5 minutes. End on a positive note before they lose focus.
2. Use High-Value Rewards
Use treats or toys your puppy loves to grab their attention. Keep rewards consistent to reinforce good behavior.
3. Limit Distractions
Start training in a quiet space. Gradually introduce distractions as they improve focus.
4. Be Quick and Clear
Mark the desired behavior with a “yes” when they understand the behavior then add your cue
5. Train Frequently
Practice several short sessions throughout the day instead of one long one. Repetition helps your puppy retain information.
6. Practice Attention Exercises
Teach “look at me” Reward your puppy each time they make eye contact with you.
7. Redirect
If your puppy gets distracted, gently guide them back to the task at hand. I never say no because they have no idea what it means!
8. Introduce New Experiences Slowly
Gradually expose your puppy to new environments, people, and sounds to build confidence and reduce overstimulation.
9. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward every time your puppy does something good!
10. Practice Patience
Puppies are naturally distracted—it’s part of their growth. Stay consistent, and they’ll improve over time.
.
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
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➡️Not every dog needs a sweater or coat, but for some, it’s essential for their comfort and safety.
🐾 Temperature Guidelines:
If it’s below 45°F (7°C), short-haired, small, or senior dogs may need extra insulation. When it drops below32°F (0°C), almost all dogs are at risk of hypothermia or frostbite, especially during long exposures.
🐾 Does It Actually Work?
Yes! Sweaters and coats help trap heat, but they must fit snugly (not tight!) and cover the chest and belly to be effective. Wet or dirty sweaters should always be removed to avoid chilling your dog further.
🐾 When It’s Not Needed:
If they’re healthy, active, and the weather is above freezing, their natural coat usually does the job! Always check their body language—shivering or lifting paws can be a sign they’re cold.
✅Even for breeds like Goldens and Labs, thoughtful winter wear can make a big difference in keeping them comfortable during those extra chilly days!
➡️Since the temperatures are pretty cold just about everywhere here is an Amazon link for a Hurtta Parka that will keep your dog warm!
https://amzn.to/3VjIsS8
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
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#DogTrainerTips
1️⃣. Whenever your puppy is quiet and being good just give them a small reward.
2️⃣. Take advantage of every opportunity you can throughout the day.
3️⃣. The secret is DON’T SAY ANYTHING!
You will find your puppy will start offering this calm behavior more and more. Once you feel they understand then you can place it on your choice of cue. (Many use “settle”).
✅This works for dogs of all ages!!! Try it and you will see🥰🥰✅
✅ Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram for great puppy training tips.
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Thinking of getting a puppy? Take our FREE MINI COURSE “Should you get a puppy?” To learn if you are really ready. Visit empoweredpuppyschool.com
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➡️Adolescents can be challenging, but change is possible!
➡️When I first worked with Murphy, it took over 11 minutes for him to settle and go to his place without barking or jumping. Just one week later, he mastered it in under 45 seconds!
🗝️🗝️The key? Patience and persistence.
➡️By giving Murphy the chance to figure out what I wanted and consistently rewarding his calm behavior, he quickly learned that staying on his place was the best choice.
✅Adolescent dogs aren’t being “bad”—they’re overwhelmed, confused, or full of energy. With the right guidance, they can learn patience and self-control.
💡 Imagine your dog calmly staying in place while you walk around the house!
👉 Our upcoming course will teach you exactly how to train your dog to do this and more. Turn their energy into focus and create calm in your home!
Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool#trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
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⭐️⭐️What is the solution? Routine Naps!! Setting a routine for your puppy to nap every 1 1/2-2 hours will help curb many of the unwanted behaviors. By giving them the sleep they need will help them turn into amazing dogs, and make our lives so much easier!
✅It is recommended that puppies need to sleep 18-20 hours a day. If they sleep 8 hours at night then they would be awake only 4-6 hours a day!
➡️With our busy lifestyles often our puppies are awake much more than that. Overstimulation will bring out the nipping, jumping and mouthiness in our puppies.
✅Overstimulation is not the only culprit of a puppies crazy antics. They can actually wake up in the morning raring to go. Coming off of 8 hours of sleep we wonder how this happens? Pent up energy is one and being hungry is another.
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool#trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
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➡️I wanted to show you how puppies have the ability to distinguish between numbers. This is a testament to their intelligence and proves the effectiveness of positive reinforcement training methods.
➡️Dogs have different visual discrimination skills. They are able to tell pattern recognition and have the ability to recognize shapes and contrasts.
✅A research study at Emory University also demonstrated that dogs can distinguish between different quantities.
✅Here is how I taught this:
1️⃣. I show the puppies the numbers by lowering them from my shoulders one at a time as seen in the video and saying the number.
2️⃣. I then lower both numbers at the same time and ask for one of the numbers show.
3️⃣. The puppy must show some sort of gesture to the number asked. Some will look at it, some will paw at it, and some will touch with their nose.
4️⃣. Reward if they are correct. If they get the number wrong I will name the number (the wrong one they acknowledged) and ask again for my original number.
✅The puppies and I worked for about 2 minutes on this one day and the next day we did the video. Opie got all of them correct, Harper and Joey both got two numbers correct.
➡️Remember the key are the cards as well as they are in contrast for optimal visualization for the puppies. White and black, same font and size. This helps with their learning.
✅Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! Follow @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool #trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
#goldenretriever
#goldenretrieverpuppies
#labpuppy
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➡️Many new puppy owners worry about taking their puppies out in public before all their vaccinations are complete. While caution is important, skipping early socialization entirely can leave your puppy feeling unsure or fearful later in life.
✅Good news: It’s easier (and safer) than you think! Set up a cozy spot like this with an x-pen and blanket, and let your puppy soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of the world.
✅From busy streets to quiet parks, simply exposing them to life outside your home during this critical window makes all the difference in raising a confident, well-adjusted puppy.
Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
#adolescentdog
#dogbehavior
#dogtrainingtips
#dogtips
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool#trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
#goldenretriever
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➡️Digging may seem harmless at first, but without early intervention it can be a tough habit to break.
❓❓Why do they love to dig❓❓
It is instinctual (like they are treasure hunting) or they are bored curious, or trying to cool off.
➡️Here is what you can do to prevent long-term digging:
1️⃣. Supervise early play don’t let the habit form.
2️⃣. Redirect their focus using toys, chews or mental stimulation games.
3️⃣. Teach boundaries by creating a digging zone. You can use a sandbox and hide toys for them to search for. Just make sure to teach that is the only spot they can dig.
🧐🧐Things to think about if your dog is digging.
1️⃣. Digging is often a sign of pent-up energy. Evaluate if your dog is getting enough physical and mental stimulation. They need both!
2️⃣. Dogs sometimes dig to keep cool or to create a sheltered spot. Make sure the dog has a place in the shade.
3️⃣. Reward your dog when he is calm outside. We often forget this as we want our dogs to run around and get out the energy. We forget to teach them they can just lay outside and be calm not destructive.
Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
#adolescentdog
#dogbehavior
#dogtrainingtips
#dogtips
#goldenpuppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppyschool#trainingapuppy #labradorpuppy #puppies
#goldenretriever
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#labpuppy
#howtotrainapuppy
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#dogbreeder
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#puppytraining
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#PuppyTrainingMadeEasy
#DogTrainerTips
➡️Chewing is a stress relief for them and for us. Thanksgiving can be a lot for our dogs from unfamiliar smells to a house full of guests. Especially for a new puppy still learning the ropes!
✅Offer them a safe space, a favorite chew toy, and some extra one on one attention from their favorite person…you!
Let me be your guide to how puppies learn! @empoweredpuppyprogram
✅Getting a puppy? visit empoweredpuppyschool.com we have an online puppy course just for goldens and labs.
✅Are you a breeder or trainer wanting to take your business further? Check out or Breeder/Trainer Online Course at empoweredpuppyschool.com
FREE MINI COURSE: Should I get a puppy? Take the course to find out if you are ready! Empoweredpuppyschool.com
#happythanksgivng
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🦃🦃Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I am so grateful to be able to share all I have learned about how puppies learn with all of you. I thank you all for following, asking great questions, and sharing how the tips have helped. I really am truly blessed!🥰
