Let us consider this common scenario.
Someone brings home a puppy at 8 weeks old. They start crate training and playing with the puppy under strict supervision. The owner will block off areas that the puppy can't have access to and put the puppy on a strict potty schedule. By 4 months old, the puppy is now trustworthy to not potty in the house and gains more access to the home. By 6 months old, the puppy has free access to their environment, unlimited toys, food, treats with no rules.
Suddenly issues start to arise such as jumping on guests or family members, nipping the children, pulling and lunging towards dogs and strangers, not coming when called, bolting out the door, or only doing commands when there are treats involved. These issues do not appear in an instant, but instead they develop over time.
Back when the puppy was learning about their environment from 8- 20 weeks old, they lacked experiences of bumping into boundaries and learning through consequences. Because the puppy is so young, behavior may not be obviously out of bounds but all the more important to address. This is where bad habits and attitudes begin; the day you bring them home.
More owners today are pushing the age of accountability to 1 year or even 2 years old. If the dog pulls, jumps, or is generally too excitable, the excuses is something like "he's just a puppy". When exactly is one going to start addressing behaviors and holding a dog accountable? Owners need to remember they are raising a dog and not a puppy. Preparing a young dog for maturity is a vital step in obtaining the well mannered, respectful dog we all aim for.
When is the right age to start training then? When should you start holding your dog accountable? The day you bring them home! Do not abruptly stop structure after potty training. Continue to guide, address poor choices, encourage the good, and raise the puppy into the respectful dog they will be!
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