Did you know that January is National Train Your Dog Month? To help celebrate, and give you some ideas if you are just getting started or want to brush up on your skills, I’ve put together a roundup of tips, tools and ideas to help!
Puppy Socialization and Training
Start early! According to Debbie McKnight, a PetSmart training expert, “Before 12 weeks is the best window for meeting new people, other dogs and taking in new experiences that will inform puppies’ future behavior and reactions.” Puppies that socialize with other puppies, dogs and humans develop into healthy, confident dogs. A dog that hasn’t been properly socialized may startle easily, bark at a certain type of person or clothing or react poorly to other new experiences in the future. This type of interaction is especially important during the winter months, when dogs spend a lot of time indoors.
Puppy Playtime: In honor of January’s National Training Month, PetSmart is hosting Puppy Playtime each Sunday from 2 – 3 at all PetSmart locations. Pet parents are invited to bring their dogs (2 years and younger) to have leash-free play time in gated area of the store! It’s just $10 – no registration needed and no long-term requirements, pet parents are invited to just bring their pup and enjoy the fun!
Puppy Starter Kit: If you’ve recently adopted a puppy, or know someone who has, be sure to check out this Puppy Starter Kit. It’s only $19.99 and you receive almost $200 worth of products, coupons & services to help you and your new fur kid get started. In addition to answering common Puppy Parent issues like puppy nutrition, potty training & chewing, pet parents will find great savings on puppy essentials like food, grooming & care. This kit includes vouchers for:
- FREE Bag of Specialty Puppy food (up to $15)
- FREE 1-Hour Puppy Orientation Seminar
- FREE Puppy Bath, Brush & More
- FREE Banfield Veterinary Consultation
- FREE Doggie Day Camp Visits (2 sessions – new campers only)
- Coupons for discounts on Microchipping, Gear, ID Tags + More
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