Word Association
Use the same word (command) for each behavior every time you teach it, adding food rewards and verbal praise to reinforce the positive behavior. The puppy will make the connection and will be motivated to repeat the action when he hears those key words. For example, when teaching the pup to potty outside, use the same potty term ("Go potty," "Get busy" or "Hurry up" are commonly used) each time he eliminates, adding a "Good boy!" while he's urinating or emptying his bowels.
Timing
All dogs learn their lessons in the present tense. You have to catch them in the act (good or bad) in order to dispense rewards or discipline. You have three to five seconds to connect with him or he will not understand what he did wrong. Thus, timing and consistency are your keys to success.
Successful puppy training depends on several important principles:
1. Use simple one-word commands and say them only once. Otherwise puppy learns that "Come" (or "Sit" or "Down") is a three- or four-word command.
2. Never correct your dog for something he did minutes earlier. You have three to five seconds to catch him.
3. Always praise (and offer a treat) as soon as he does something good (or stops doing something naughty). How else will puppy know he's a good dog?
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