Simple Ways to Include Kids in Puppy Training: Age-Appropriate Ways Kids Can Help
When bringing home your new Golden Retriever puppy, you know how important it is to make learning both fun and meaningful for your kids. It isn’t just about teaching basic commands—it’s an opportunity to instill patience, responsibility, and teamwork in your whole family. Involving your children in puppy training can be a rewarding experience, strengthening family bonds while ensuring your puppy grows up well-socialized and responsive.Here are some simple, age-appropriate ways your children can help train your new puppy and make the process enjoyable for everyone!
Toddler (Ages 1–3): Short, Fun Interactions
Even toddlers can start to form a bond with the family puppy, and with the right guidance, they can help with some basic training activities. For example:
Feeding Time: Let your little one assist with feeding the puppy. This teaches responsibility and helps them form a positive association with the puppy.
Gentle Touches: Encourage your toddler to give the puppy soft, gentle strokes. This helps them understand how to interact calmly and positively with their new friend.
Of course, you’ll need to supervise these interactions closely to ensure everyone stays safe. This age group benefits from short, positive experiences.
Preschoolers (Ages 3–5): Introduce Simple Commands
Preschoolers love to feel like they’re in charge, and puppy training is a perfect opportunity to let them take on small leadership roles. At this age, kids can help with basic commands like:
Sit: Have your preschooler hold a treat near the puppy’s nose and guide the puppy into a sitting position, rewarding them with praise and a treat once they’re seated. It’s a simple way for your child to feel involved in the puppy's learning.
Name Recognition: Use your child’s name to call the puppy, encouraging them to speak clearly and firmly. This is a fun way for kids to develop communication skills while helping the puppy understand who they should respond to.
Keep the sessions short (5–10 minutes) to keep your little ones engaged and avoid overwhelming them.
Elementary Age (Ages 6–10): Teach Basic Commands
By the time your kids reach elementary age, they’re ready to take on more responsibilities in puppy training. With a little guidance, they can actively help with training sessions. Some commands your children can work on include:
Come: Have your child call the puppy from across the room, rewarding them with a treat or praise when they come. This is a great way for your child to practice positive reinforcement.
Stay: Encourage your child to help the puppy learn how to stay in one spot for a few seconds. They can reward the puppy with treats and praise for their efforts.
This is also the age when kids can start taking responsibility for the puppy’s exercise routine, walking them around the yard or on a leash.
Tweens & Teens (Ages 11+): Advanced Training Techniques
As your kids get older, they can handle more advanced puppy training. They might even become the primary trainers for certain behaviors. This can be an excellent opportunity for family bonding as they work together on:
Leash Training: Tweens and teens can help teach the puppy to walk on a leash without pulling. It’s a great way for your older kids to practice leadership and patience.
Household Routines: Your older children can take charge of the puppy’s daily routines, like potty training or crate training. This gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Teenagers are also capable of teaching fun tricks that can help further strengthen the bond between your kids and their puppy, while providing extra stimulation for the puppy.
Make It a Family Event
Training a puppy isn’t a solo task—it's a family affair! Make sure to incorporate your whole family in the puppy’s learning journey by scheduling regular “training days.” Have a family meeting to discuss the training goals for the week and assign age-appropriate tasks to each child. Not only will this give everyone a sense of purpose, but it will also teach your kids the value of teamwork as they all work toward the common goal of raising a well-behaved puppy.
Conclusion: Puppies and Kids Make the Best Team
As a family with a love for the outdoors and a strong desire for a gentle, well-raised Golden Retriever, Jennifer and her children will enjoy the process of training their new puppy together. Whether it’s your toddler helping with feeding or your teen mastering leash training, including your kids in the puppy training journey fosters a sense of ownership and excitement. It also ensures that your puppy grows up to be a beloved, well-mannered companion for the entire family.
Remember to always keep training sessions fun, short, and positive for the best results. And don’t forget, puppies thrive on consistency, so as a family, your teamwork and commitment will lay the foundation for a long-lasting, joyful relationship between your kids and their new furry friend!
Here’s a List of our Favorite Puppy Essen"tials”
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Also a Great Recipe to Make with your Kiddos!
https://www.rosenthistlefarm.com/blog/6qgaqfqosf137k0a4kyeoxxwv6az8d
