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So, you're on a mission to transform your adorable 11-week-old furball into a therapy dog extraordinaire? That's amazing! Get ready for a rewarding journey filled with puppy breath, sloppy kisses, and the incredible bond that comes with training your own dog. And guess what? We're diving deep into the world of therapy dog training, with a special focus on a secret weapon: the poop clicker.
Why Therapy Dog Training is Paw-some
Let's be real, therapy dogs are basically superheroes in fur coats. They bring joy, comfort, and emotional support to people in hospitals, schools, nursing homes – you name it. Imagine your pup brightening someone's day just by being their furry selves!
11 Weeks and Ready to Train!
Eleven weeks is the perfect age to start your pup's therapy dog journey. They're like little sponges, eager to learn and soak up everything you teach them. Remember, consistency is key! Short, fun training sessions are the way to go.
The Poop Clicker: Your New Best Friend
Now, let's talk about the poop clicker. I know it sounds a little silly, but trust me, this little tool can be a game-changer, especially when it comes to potty training. Here's how it works:
- Click and Treat: As soon as your puppy finishes doing their business outside, click the clicker and give them a tasty treat.
- Positive Association: The clicker helps your puppy connect the dots between going potty outside and getting rewarded.
- Consistency is Key: Keep up the clicker training consistently, and your puppy will quickly learn that going potty in the right place means yummy treats and praise.
Beyond the Basics: Essential Therapy Dog Skills
Beyond potty training, here are some other essential skills to focus on:
- Basic Obedience: Sit, stay, come, and down are non-negotiables for any well-behaved pup, especially a future therapy dog.
- Socialization is Key: Expose your puppy to different people, dogs, and environments to help them become confident and well-adjusted.
- Handling and Touch: Get your puppy used to being touched all over, including their paws, ears, and tail. This is crucial for when they interact with people in therapy settings.
- Calm and Collected: Therapy dogs need to be comfortable in a variety of situations. Work on teaching your pup to stay calm and relaxed even when there's a lot going on around them.
Remember the Joy!
Training a therapy dog is incredibly rewarding, but it's important to have fun along the way! Keep your training sessions positive and upbeat, and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. You've got this!
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