If you have just brought home a new puppy, kitten or rescue pet, training should begin straight away. It is easy for a dog or cat to pick up bad habits quickly, especially when they are settling in. If you let your puppy sleep in your bed initially, this is where he will expect to sleep for the rest of his life and it may not be as fun when he grows to be a hairy, slobbering 20kg adult dog!

Make sure you decide on a few ground rules early and stick to them. Short training sessions (up to five minutes) create routine and stimulate your pet’s brain.

Here are a few things to remember:

• Be consistent
• Always reward your pet when he is doing the right thing
• Dogs in particular learn by positive re-enforcement; use treats, pats and a positive voice as a reward
• Ignore any undesirable behaviour

Puppy Pre School is an excellent opportunity for your pup to learn some basic manners but, most importantly, socialise with other dogs his own age. Your puppy will gain confidence with different doggy personalities making visits to the park in the future much more enjoyable.  Our vet nurse Sherona Smith runs a fantastic puppy preschool each month.  Please call the clinic for more information.

Kittens and cats need lots of stimulation so providing a range of toys is important. Scratching posts and climbing poles are also an excellent source of entertainment.

For more information on training tips, please visit our blog article on beaviour.