Got A Puppy For Christmas? Time For Training!

CHARLOTTE – we’ve all had that dream. We’re kids, opening presents on Christmas morning. In one of those boxes, there’s a cute dog and it’s yours. But as cute as they are, they’re a ten to 20 year commitment.

Having a furry friend as a best friend can be one of the greatest gifts someone can ever receive, but no one said it was easy.

according to pet tips website MyFriend , 11% of adopted pets in the U.S. are returned to shelters within the first six months.

This happens because some people don’t realize what a commitment a pet is, and they end up having to surrender the pet to animal services.

WCCB’s Emma Mondo met with Lindsey Tkaczyk, the owner and trainer of Freedom K-9 Dog Training. She knows all the tips and tricks to make your new puppy experience a bit easier.

“My goal is to create a very well-rounded dog that people can obviously not have the nuisance behaviors, but have the freedom to take them in different places and to live life with them and travel and so forth,” says Tkaczyk.

Tkaczyk knows how much people love adding a fur baby to the family, so she offers training options for those who want to help get their newest family member comfortable and off on the right foot.

“I’m a really big believer in utilizing a crate from the get go,” Tkaczyk says. “I think it is one way that you can help manage your dog’s space when you’re not able to be there.”

Tip number two; utilize a leash everywhere you go so your pet isn’t sneaking off and misbehaving.

Tip three; take your dogs food with you wherever you take your pet.

“Not all dogs are coming back confident,” says Tkaczyk. “They’re adjusting to a new space. I can bring my dog’s meals out here and start throwing it on the ground, or having them feed from hand, and I’m creating joy. Like, think of all of us. We ate a lot of food for the holidays. That brings us good feelings. Our dogs are the same way.”

While having a new pet can be overwhelming, especially during the holidays, Tkazcyk says it’s doable with the right help.

“The whole reason of getting that dog is so that you have a great relationship, you’re essentially adopting or purchasing your best friend, right? so set yourself up for the long haul.”