Despite the Husky's powerful appearance, he is a soft dog who will not respond to harsh training methods or corrections. Puppy kindergarten and continued lessons in obedience are the best course to combating the Husky's stubborn streak.
Puppy Games
Puppy games are a great way to entertain your puppy and yourself, while subliminally teaching lessons in the course of having fun. Start with a game plan and a pocketful of tasty dog treats. Keep your games short so you don't push his attention span beyond Husky-puppy limits. Huskies get bored with too much repetition.
Puppy Catch-Me—This one helps teach the come command. With two people sitting on the floor about 10 or 15 feet apart, one person holds and pets the pup while the other calls him, "Puppy, puppy, come!" in a happy voice. When the puppy comes running, lavish him with big hugs and give a tasty treat. Repeat back and forth several times—dont over do it.
You can add a ball or toy and toss it back and forth for the puppy to retrieve. When he picks it up, praise and hug some more, give him a goodie to release the toy, then toss the ball back to person number two. Repeat as above.
Hide and Seek—Another game that teaches the come cue. Play this game outdoors in your yard or other confined safe area. When the pup is distracted, hide behind a tree. Peek out to see when he discovers that you are gone and comes running back to find you (trust me, he will do that). As soon as he gets close, come out, squat down with arms outstretched and call him: "Puppy, come!" This is also an excellent bonding aid and teaches the puppy to depend on you.
Where's Your Toy?—Start by placing one of his favorite toys in plain sight and ask your puppy, "Where's your toy?" and let him take it. Then place your puppy safely outside the room and place the toy where only part of it shows. Bring him back and ask the same question. Praise highly when he finds it. Repeat several times. Finally, conceal the toy completely and let your puppy sniff it out. Trust his nose—he will find his toy.
Husky puppies love to have fun with their people. Games are excellent teaching aids, and one of the best ways to say I love you to your Husky.
Next step: Training Overview
Reprinted from Breeders Best: Siberian Husky © 2004. Permission granted by Kennel Club Books, an imprint of BowTie Press.
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