How to Train a Puppy from Day One – Plus Global Travel Alerts

Season 5, Episode 243

Why Your Pup’s First Lessons Matter More Than You Think

Raising a well-behaved, responsive dog starts from the very first interaction. Whether your goal is a loyal family dog, a sharp cattle dog, or a dependable hunting companion, the foundation you lay in those early days defines how your dog learns, behaves, and trusts you for life.

Forget the old myths about harsh commands or alpha dominance. Dogs learn through consistency, tone, and body language. By using instincts they already understand, you’ll teach them in a way that sticks.

Step One – The Name Game: It Should Always Mean “Good Things”

Never Use Your Dog’s Name in Anger

Your pup’s name is their identity. It should always be connected with positive outcomes, whether it’s food, praise, or play. If you yell their name when you’re frustrated, they’ll associate it with fear or confusion—breaking trust from the start.

Building Trust Through Repetition and Reward

Call their name in a cheerful tone. When they look at you or come to you, reward with affection or occasional treat. Doing this consistently teaches them two things:

• Their name means something good.

• You’re a safe leader worth paying attention to.

This is especially crucial for working and hunting dogs, where off-leash trust and fast responses can mean safety—or success in the field.

Step Two – Using the “Growl” to Establish Respect and Control

Tapping Into Natural Canine Instincts

Long before a pup hears a human word, they understand the growl. Their mother uses a soft growl to stop rough play or unsafe behavior. You can harness this instinctive cue to calmly say, “No, not that.”

A quick, firm growl-like “Errrrr!” mimics the maternal correction they already know. It’s a non-threatening but clear signal that resets their behavior without yelling or punishment.

Growling Builds Leadership Without Fear

Using a verbal growl when needed helps you:

• Redirect unwanted behavior (e.g., chewing, jumping).

• Instantly capture attention without fear.

• Reinforce calm authority, especially in high-energy dogs.

Working and hunting dogs thrive under confident leadership. This one trick reinforces your role in a way they naturally respect.

U.S. Department of State Global Advisory – Stay Informed

Before heading out—domestic or abroad—check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory site. As of late June 2025, there are active alerts and heightened advisories for several global regions.

Travel Smart: Enroll in STEP Before You Leave the Country

Personally, we want to share that if you are planning to travel out of the country – be smart. Double check not just the country being visited but also any layovers to get to said destination. 

Secondly, plan to take 20 minutes of your time before leaving your home, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program with the Department of State. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a free service to all U.S. citizens to enroll their trip abroad so that the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.

Benefits

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest or a family emergency.

https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step