Basic Pug training begins with the understanding that as a Pug owner, you need to be firm but loving. Pugs are a highly sensitive breed, often in tune with their owner’s feelings. This makes it easier for them to spot a weak owner. Don’t let Pug’s endearing face detract from your training efforts.
Many Pug owners don’t understand that a lack of basic training can put a Pug at risk! Pugs are inquisitive by nature and unless they are properly trained, they will explore their environment with little regard for dangerous situations. Take ownership of Pug training and teach them how to behave as well as their role in the pack. Pugs have a stubborn personality, but beneath their tough exterior is a strong desire to please their master. A well-trained Pug is within your reach if you have patience, dedication, and perseverance.
Mental toughness is also a requirement if you want to be successful in training a Pug. Pugs think they are equal members of the family. If you give your Pug special privileges, such as jumping on the couch or the freedom to ignore commands, then the advantage in obedience training is sacrificed.
Getting your Pug to get the proper exercise is the first step to effective Pug training. While Pugs won’t be running alongside you in a marathon any time soon, they will turn mischievous if you don’t provide an outlet for their boisterous energy. A daily walk and some indoor playtime should be enough to wear them down. Keep in mind that their short muzzle causes a lot of breathing problems, so be sure to monitor your breathing, especially in hot weather situations.
In addition to exercise, the following approaches will help bolster your Pug training efforts:
• basic commands: The cause of many Pug problems can be traced back to a lack of basic obedience training. Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” are the building blocks of successful Pug training. A lifetime of obedience problems and heartache for your family can be avoided with these basic commands.
• Clicker Training: With their strong-willed nature, Pugs can adopt an attitude and ignore your commands. The distinctive clicker sound gets Pugs’ attention and can speed up their efforts when used as positive reinforcement.
• Burst Training Shorts: This is the basis for successful training, especially for Pug puppies. Short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes of focused training are the best method for success. It is strongly recommended to use the clicker during these short training sessions.
It may seem obvious, but you should NEVER hit your Pug. Negative reinforcement in any form, such as yelling or hitting, is fearful and only hurts the training process. Rewarding positive behavior has been shown to speed up the learning process in dogs. Mix positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Pugs by nature crave their owner’s acceptance and attention, so they will respond quickly to what makes you happy.
Good luck in your Pug training endeavors!
