Sit, Stay, Shine!
Welcome Back, Bark Pack!🐾
The first week with your pup isn’t just about snuggles and squeaky toys. it’s where your future superstar starts learning the ropes (and the leash). Those first 7 days lay the foundation for a lifetime of good habits, trust, and tail wagging teamwork.
Think of it like this: you’re not just training your dog, you’re building a language only the two of you will speak. Early training enhances your pup’s focus, confidence, and socialization skills while deepening your bond.
🤣Joke of the Week:
What’s a dog’s favorite part of training?
The snack breaks!
Training Tip: “Say My Name, Sit and Come!”
Your Pup’s Name isn’t just a label it's s a cue that means “Hey look at me!”
Practice name recognition in short bursts: say their name once, and when they glance your way, reward them like they just discovered fire.
Once your pup knows their name, introduce “Sit” using a treat-guided motion above their nose, gravity does the rest!
Then, move to “Come” with an enthusiastic tone and lots of praise. Keep sessions under 5 minutes and always end on a win.
📌Pack Tip: Dogs remember the feeling of success, not perfection. End every session like a party, even if you only got one good “Sit!”
👉 Source: American Kennel Club
7 Days of Training
DAY | FOCUS | GOAL |
|---|---|---|
1 | Name recognition | Teach them that their name = attention (and treats!) |
2 | “Sit” command | Build impulse control and patience |
3 | “Come” command | Start recall with rewards and excitement |
4 | Short leash sessions | Introduce gentle guidance, not pulling |
5 | Focus games | Reward eye contact and calm behavior |
6 | Handling practice | Get them used to grooming and gentle touches |
7 | Review & celebrate | Revisit all skills with treats, praise, and play! |
🩺Vet Corner: Early Training Matters
Training isn’t just mental, it’s medical. Early obedience work keeps your dog safer and reduces stress-related issues. Early training lowers anxiety, improves adaptability, and strengthens the immune system through reduced stress responses. According to OffleashK9
Well trained dogs are also less likely to experience accidents, aggression, or fear-based behaviors that could lead to injury. Think of early training as preventive care for both mind and body like vitamins, but with treats.🦴
🐕Gear Pick: Clicker Training Starter Kit
Want to look like a pro without saying a word? get yourself a Clicker Training Starter Kit. the clicker helps you mark the exact moment your pup does something right.
📌Pack Tip: Timing is everything, the click should happen the excat moment your dog does the desired Behavior, not after you grab the treat. Think of the clicker as saying “YES!” in dog language. bullseye🎯
Bark Events This Week:
Saturday October 11th : Adoption Event. (New York, NY)
Sunday October 12th: Day Of The Dog. (San Diego, CA)
Saturday October 11th: Bark In The Park. (Houston, TX)
Saturday & Sunday October 11th & 12th: Dog Fest. (Jacksonville, FL)
🐕Here’s A Bark From Our Sponsors:
Do you have a product or service that a dog lover would adore? our readers are passionate pet parents who value trusted recommendations.
📢Pack Call: Share Your Tails!
We want to see YOUR ”First 7 Days” in action!
Send in your cutest training photos or funniest learning bloopers to [email protected] for a chance to be featured in next week’s “Spotlight.”📸🐶
Take it slow, celebrate small wins, and remember: every great dog owner relationship starts with patience, consistency, and lots of treats. 🐾💙🧡
Pack Pals.