This week, I have cancelled puppy class (but people can look over notes and videos on the portal). Although my puppy classes are held indoors (due to a puppy’s immune system developing), and there is no metal grates they have to walk on up to the door, people are travelling from over Hertfordshire and I don’t want dogs and their people to suffer travelling! While I was sitting here it got me thinking about how I can help from a far, hence the blog!

Here are some simple ways you can help habituate your puppy to noises, textures and objects they may find a bit odd!

Have a cardboard box that’s filled with an egg box and some brown paper. Turn it on its side and pop some kibble for your dog to find inside. This helps them to explore unusual objects and build up positive associations with them.

Make a noise by dropping something such as pan and then immediately scatter treats for your dog to find. Dogs Trust also have sound desensitisation tracks.

While the air con is blowing gently handle your dogs paws, ears and tail and pair each touch with a tasty treat. Gently change the intensity. This will help them get used to handling from the vets.

Feed your dog on different surfaces inside and out (obviously check the pavement is not hot), so they are getting used to different textures beneath their paws.

Let them see an umbrella opening and closing and get your bike from the garage and wheel it around the garden/home.

Also in the evening when it’s much cooler and the air con has been on, let them sit in the car with you, with the engine on.

I hope that gives you some ideas and if you want to find out more about puppy class , take a look here.