Life With Jasper: Building a Relationship First
Jasper is approaching 11 weeks old, and like most puppies, he’s changing almost daily. He’s sleeping through the night in his crate, eating three meals a day, and growing faster than I’d like to admit. He’s also discovered that if he can get something between his little paws, there’s a good chance he’s going to try to destroy it.
People often ask what I’m working on with a new puppy. The answer usually surprises them. While Jasper knows his name, comes when called, sits, downs for treats, and is learning to walk nicely on a leash, those aren’t my primary focus right now.
My focus is on building a relationship first.
Jasper follows my older dogs outside and watches everything they do. He plays with my younger dogs and is learning boundaries with the older dogs. One thing I’ve noticed is how independent he is for such a young puppy. It’s not unusual to find him lying on the deck by himself, watching the world go by and taking everything in.
At this age, I’m more concerned with confidence, engagement, and teaching him how to live in my world than I am with perfect obedience. I want him to learn that good things come from me, that I’m someone worth paying attention to, and that training is something enjoyable rather than something he has to do.
One thing I don’t worry about with a young puppy is using too many treats. When Jasper comes when called, I pay him. When he chooses me over a distraction, I pay him. When he makes a good decision, he gets praise and often a reward.
Some owners worry about creating a puppy that is dependent on treats. My goal right now isn’t to see how little I can reward him. My goal is to create a puppy who thinks listening to me is worthwhile and that being around me leads to positive experiences.
Every successful recall, every check-in, and every good choice is an opportunity to strengthen our relationship. At this stage, I want Jasper to associate me with fun, guidance, and positive outcomes.
Rather than long formal training sessions, I prefer short sessions sprinkled throughout the day. Puppies have short attention spans, and learning should be enjoyable. A few minutes here and there gives Jasper plenty of opportunities to succeed without becoming overwhelmed.
As he grows, there will be plenty of time to increase expectations and add more advanced training. For now, I’m focused on raising a confident puppy, building good habits, encouraging curiosity, and strengthening our bond.
The obedience will continue to develop. The relationship is what makes everything else possible.