The best method of how to train Labrador
retriever puppies is to apply positive reinforcement, that's
combined with unrestricted praise and treats.
In order to establish an immediate bond, play
with your pup on a frequent basic and if possible get down on the
floor with her - this bond will later be strengthen through
training. Labrador retriever puppy training can start almost as
soon as she arrives home. In a similar way to a small child, she
will learn best through activities and games.
At approximately eight weeks of age your
Labrador retriever pup can start to learn about retrieving
objects. This is the "fetch" activity that she will enjoy all of
her life.
Learning how to train Labrador retriever
pup's is not difficult. To teach this fun exercise, it's often
ideal to have her on a ten foot lead or so. Don't be tempted to
use a stick for this activity (this could cause an injury) but
take a toy that she recognizes or a soft-ball. Make certain that
it's too big to be swallowed.
Gently wave the toy near her head to draw
attention to it and then throw it approximately five feet in
front. There's no need to throw it too far as she's just starting
out. If she arrives at the end of the leach all of a sudden, she
could be hurt. Use her name, so the command is "Boots, fetch!"
Follow as she runs to the soft-ball and if
she picks it up; offer some encouragement - but not too much
praise yet, as she isn't finished. If your Labrador retriever pup
does not take it in her mouth, wave it in front of her until she
does. Then walk slowing back to the starting point, and encourage
her to follow. If she does drop the soft toy, be certain to get
her pick it back up. Once she arrives back, remove the ball out of
her mouth and at the same moment say the command "Out", or similar
command. Now you may offer her lots of praise.
In a very short time, with some practice,
you'll know how to a train Labrador retriever to enjoy this fun
activity. She will soon come to realize what you want and how to
receive the most praise. As she becomes accustomed to retrieving
without you needing to move in the direction of the soft-toy,
begin to throw in various directions.
Labrador retriever puppy training can also
include swimming, but when starting out it is important to
strengthen the swimming muscles. Don't force or throw your puppy
into a pond or lake. A puppy at approximately three months of age
may be encouraged to enter the water and will soon realize what's
needed. Wading in with her can assist in getting started, in
addition to seeing other dogs having fun in the lake.
As any one who owns a Lab can attest,
learning how to train Labrador retriever puppies efficiently can
have an enormously beneficial effect on her future well-being.
