You can send your puppy to kindergarten, middle school and college at Blue Sky Canine Dog Training in Parker. Private in-home training is another option for puppy and family.
Austin Printz, trainer and owner of Blue Sky Canine believes a puppy should be trained from the moment their little paws patter into the family home. “Puppies are sponges and mirrors, just like children. They pick up on all our habits and rituals. Training has to start on day one when the puppy enters the home,” Austin advises.
I asked Austin a few questions recently about puppies and little people.
What specific things should parents do before choosing a puppy?
Research! Parents should do breed research and ask, ‘What kind of puppy are we getting? What are the genetic tendencies of the breed?’ They need to make sure they are going through a reputable breeder, who has been doing it for a long time and has good reviews. Registered papers for the dog are gold! They tell the history of the puppy and its lineage.
Which breeds interact best with children?
Golden retrievers are my number one recommendation. They are gentle with families. Labradors are a tie or at least a close second choice.
What are your thoughts on a family getting a rescue dog?
It really depends on the dog. If it was my family, I would do extensive research on the dog, try to figure out its history, what it has or hasn’t been exposed to. Not every rescue dog is a good fit for a family.
On a personal note, my husband and I adopted a rescue dog, Banksy, without information. We went online and ordered a genetic test kit and found out exactly which breeds he is. Banksy has been a good fit for us.
Can parents do anything specific to help the new puppy and family transition smoothly?
When puppies are moving, it can be very stressful. Give the dog space and let it settle down. Next, develop positive associations with the child. Have them give the dog something it values or food just to help the dog see the child as a friend. Positive association is important.
Thank you, Austin!
"Puppies are sponges and mirrors, just like children. They pick up on all our habits and rituals. Training has to start on day one."