How to Train a Sheltie Puppy

Shelties are smart, energetic, hardy dogs. They learn quickly and can be easy to train. Being from the herding breed they do like to work and are great at a lot of different dog sports, including agility and flyball. Here are my tips for training a young sheltie.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Treats
• Leash
• Flat collar

1. Teach attention first. Attention is the foundation for all of your training. Teach your sheltie to look up and into your eyes when you say his/her name.

2. Start to teach the basics: sit, down, stand, stay and come once your sheltie puppy understands his name. Leash walking can also be taught, but only using very positive techniques.

3. Keep in mind that "come" is the most important command to teach your sheltie. Being trained to come when called can literally save your pup's life. A puppy that does not come when called can get lost, injured or killed.

4. Start handling and brushing techniques. Get your sheltie pup used to being on a table and handled, as shelties require regular grooming.

5. Train in short 5 to 10-minute sessions. You always want to end the session with your pup wanting to do more. By keeping the sessions short and fun, your pup will have excellent obedience as an adult dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Shelties are sensitive and don't respond well to heavy-handed methods.

Resources

• FREE Dog Training Videos: Learn True Dog Training Secrets