Lhasa Apso Breeding and Puppies Puppy Care and Training

Teaching Basic Commands to Your Lhasa Apso Puppy

Matthew Farthing 28.04.2023 0

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting experience, but it also entails a great responsibility. As an owner, you want to ensure that your Lhasa Apso puppy adapts well to its new environment and learns proper behavior. Teaching your furry friend basic commands is one of the most important aspects of puppy training. Not only does it create a strong bond between you and your pup, but it also helps in enhancing communication, ensuring safety, and promoting good health. In this article, we will guide you through the process of teaching some essential commands to your Lhasa Apso puppy step by step. So, let’s get started!

The Importance of Training Command

Training your Lhasa Apso puppy is crucial for both you and your furry friend. Not only does it help establish a stronger bond between you two, but it also enhances mutual communication and ensures the safety and health of your dog. However, training your puppy may seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re a first-time dog owner. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand the importance of training commands and how it can benefit you and your Lhasa Apso. By the end of this article, you’ll be well equipped with the knowledge and tools to train your pup like a pro. But first, let’s explore why training is so important for your Lhasa Apso puppy.
If you want more tips on Lhasa Apso puppy care and training, check out our 10 tips for Lhasa Apso puppy care and training article.

1. Building a Strong Bond with Your Puppy

Building a strong bond with your Lhasa Apso puppy is crucial when it comes to training them. A strong bond built on trust and respect will make it easier for your puppy to follow your commands. Here are some ways to build that bond:

1. Spend Quality Time Together	Spend time playing, cuddling and going on walks with your puppy. This will give you a chance to connect with your Lhasa Apso and help them feel more comfortable around you.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement	Using positive reinforcement during training and everyday interactions will help your puppy associate you with good things. Reward them with treats, praise, and affection when they follow your commands or just show good behavior.
3. Be Patient and Attentive	Puppies learn at their own pace, so it’s important to be patient and attentive during training sessions. Don’t get frustrated if they don’t grasp a command right away. Just keep practicing and rewarding their progress.
4. Practice Socialization	Socializing your Lhasa Apso will not only help them build their confidence, but it will also strengthen your bond with them. Introduce them to other dogs and people while supervising to help them learn how to interact positively with others. (Learn more about socializing Lhasa Apso)
5. Follow a Consistent Routine	Having a consistent daily routine will help your Lhasa Apso know what to expect and feel more secure. This will also help them understand what is expected of them when it comes to training and following commands.

By taking the time to build a strong bond with your Lhasa Apso, you’re not only setting the foundation for successful training but also ensuring a lifetime of love and companionship. Read our Lhasa Apso Behavior Guide for more information on understanding your puppy’s behavior.

2. Enhancing Communication with Your Dog

One of the most important reasons to train your Lhasa Apso puppy in basic commands is to enhance communication with your dog. It’s crucial to establish clear lines of communication with your furry friend to ensure a healthy and happy relationship.

Teaching basic commands allows you to effectively communicate with your dog and understand what they are trying to tell you. For example, if you train your Lhasa Apso to sit and stay, they will show you through their actions that they understand the meaning of those commands.

Clear communication can also help prevent misunderstandings and frustration between you and your furry friend. Your Lhasa Apso will learn to recognize and obey commands, making it easier to keep them safe from harm. For instance, if your dog tries to dash across the road, a simple “stay” command can prevent a fatal accident. You will also be able to give your Lhasa Apso puppy more freedom if you can trust them to obey basic commands. You will be confident that they will come when called and behave well in public.

During training, you will also learn more about your Lhasa Apso puppy’s personality and preferences. You’ll know which commands they respond to best and how to read their body language effectively. This clever communication ultimately leads to a stronger bond with your Lhasa Apso, forming an unbreakable connection that will last a lifetime.

3. Ensuring Safety and Health of Your Dog

As a responsible pet owner, ensuring the safety and health of your Lhasa Apso puppy should be a top priority during training. Here are some measures you can take to do so:

Measure	Description
Use a harness instead of a collar	A collar can put pressure on your puppy’s neck and cause injuries or harm to their throat. A harness distributes the pressure more evenly on their body, making it a safer option.
Provide enough water and shade	While training your Lhasa Apso puppy, ensure that there is enough water and shade available to prevent dehydration and overheating. This is especially important during hot or humid weather.
Stay in a safe area	Choose a safe, enclosed area for the training sessions to prevent your puppy from running into traffic or getting lost.
Avoid over-exercising	While regular exercise is important for your puppy’s health, over-exercising can cause exhaustion, dehydration, or other health issues. Follow a recommended exercise routine for your puppy’s age and breed.
Provide a balanced diet	A balanced diet with the right nutrients is essential for your Lhasa Apso puppy’s growth and development. Make sure you feed them high-quality food and in the right quantity.
Regular visits to the vet	Regular visits to the vet for health check-ups, vaccinations, and other necessary treatments are crucial for your puppy’s wellbeing. Schedule appointments with your vet at recommended intervals.

These measures can help ensure the safety and health of your Lhasa Apso puppy during training and their overall growth and development. Always keep an eye on your puppy during training and address any health concerns as soon as possible. Remember, a healthy puppy is a happy puppy!

Basic Commands to Teach Your Lhasa Apso Puppy

Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy basic commands is the foundation of obedience training. These commands will help your puppy learn how to communicate with you and understand what is expected of them. It’s important to start with the basics before moving on to more advanced training. In this section, we will cover some essential commands that every Lhasa Apso puppy should learn. By the end of this section, you’ll have the tools to build a strong foundation of obedience with your furry friend. So let’s get started!

1. Sit Command

Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy the “sit” command is an essential aspect of obedience training. This command forms the foundation of many other commands and can be used in a variety of situations. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to teach your Lhasa Apso puppy the “sit” command:

Start with a treat: Hold a small treat close to your puppy’s nose.
Raise the treat: Slowly lift the treat up above your puppy’s head while using the command “sit.”
Backward pressure: As your Lhasa Apso puppy looks up at the treat, their bottom will lower. Apply gentle backward pressure on their hindquarters to help them sit all the way down.
Reward: As soon as your puppy sits down, reward them with the treat and praise them with enthusiastic words like “good job!” or “well done!”

Repeat this process multiple times a day in short training sessions. As your Lhasa Apso puppy starts to understand what you’re asking them to do, you can slowly reduce the treats and eventually phase them out altogether. Always remember to use positive reinforcement, such as verbal praise or a soft pat, when your puppy obeys the command correctly.

Some Lhasa Apso puppies might take longer to learn the “sit” command than others. In these situations, it’s important to keep the training sessions short, remain patient, and keep practicing. Once your puppy has mastered the “sit” command, you can move on to other basic commands like “down,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel.”

2. Down Command

Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy the “Down” command is an essential part of their basic training. This command will teach your puppy to lie down on their belly with their paws stretched out in front of them. Here are the steps to teach the “Down” command:

Start by commanding your Lhasa Apso puppy to “Sit”.
Once they are in the sitting position, hold a treat near their nose and slowly lower your hand towards the ground while saying “Down” in a firm voice.
As your puppy follows the treat, they will eventually lower onto their belly. When they do, reward them with the treat and praise them with “Good girl/boy!”
If your puppy doesn’t follow the treat, guide their front legs down while saying “Down” and reward them for following the command.
Repeat this process several times a day, gradually decreasing the use of treats and relying more on verbal commands and praise.

It is important to note that this command may take longer for some Lhasa Apso puppies to learn compared to others. However, with consistent practice and patience, your puppy will eventually master the “Down” command.

Training Tip: If your Lhasa Apso puppy seems hesitant to lie down, try practicing on a soft surface like carpet or grass to make them feel more comfortable. Additionally, ensure that your puppy is not feeling anxious or stressed during training sessions as this can impede their learning progress.

Remember to always make training a positive and fun experience for your Lhasa Apso puppy. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to having a well-trained and obedient furry companion.

3. Stay Command

The “Stay” command is an essential command that can keep your Lhasa Apso puppy safe in various situations. It is a command that requires your puppy to remain in a specific location without moving until you release them from the position. Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy the “stay” command will require some patience, but it is an effective trick to teach.

Step 1: Start by commanding your puppy to “sit” or “down,” whichever position you prefer.

Step 2: Use a flat hand while facing your puppy, and say “stay” while taking a step back. If they follow you or move towards you, gently put them back into their position and repeat the command.

Step 3: Increase the duration for which your puppy remains in the “stay” position gradually. When they can remain in that position for at least 30 seconds, offer them a reward, such as a treat, and praise them.

Step 4: Practice the “stay” command in different locations and with different distractions, such as noises and people passing by. By doing so, you help them learn to remain in the “stay” position amidst various distractions and situations.

Remember to only use positive reinforcement with your Lhasa Apso puppy. Do not punish them if they do not obey the command as it could lead to fear and anxiety. Patience and consistency are key when teaching the “stay” command.

Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in teaching the “stay” command to your Lhasa Apso puppy:

Step	Action
Step 1	Command your puppy to “sit” or “down” and establish eye contact.
Step 2	Say “stay” while taking a step back and use a flat hand to signal them to remain in the position.
Step 3	Gradually increase the duration for which your puppy remains in the “stay” position and reward them when they obey the command.
Step 4	Practice the “stay” command in different locations and with distractions to help your puppy learn to remain in the position amidst different scenarios.

By following these steps and practicing the “stay” command with your Lhasa Apso puppy, you can keep them safe in different environments while strengthening your bond with them.

4. Come Command

Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy the “Come” command is crucial when it comes to their safety. You want to be able to call your dog back when they are about to run into danger or if they have wandered away from you during a walk. Here’s how you can teach your puppy the “Come” command:

Start indoors: Begin by calling your puppy’s name followed by the command “Come.” Make sure to use a happy tone and reward them with a treat and lots of praise when they come over to you.
Gradually increase distance: Once your puppy has mastered coming to you indoors, it is time to start practicing outside. Begin by calling them from a short distance and then gradually increase the distance as they get confident with the command.
Introduce distractions: As your puppy gets better at responding to the “Come” command, start introducing distractions such as other dogs, toys or people. This will ensure that your dog learns to come to you even when they are distracted by something else.
Practice consistency: Make sure to use the same command every time, whether it is “Come” or “Here.” Being consistent with the command will help your dog understand what is expected of them.
Never punish your puppy: It is important never to punish your puppy for not responding to the “Come” command. Instead, try to make the command more appealing by rewarding them with treats, praise or a toy when they do respond.

Remember that training your Lhasa Apso puppy to come to you when called takes time and patience. By practicing consistently and always rewarding good behavior, you can help ensure that your puppy learns this essential command.

5. Heel Command

Teaching your Lhasa Apso puppy the “Heel” command is an important part of obedience training. This command helps your pup learn to walk calmly and closely next to you without pulling or becoming distracted. Here’s how to teach your puppy the “Heel” command step-by-step:

Step 1:	Start with your puppy on a leash and standing at your left side. Hold the leash in your left hand.
Step 2:	With your right hand, hold a treat in front of your puppy’s nose to get their attention. Begin walking with your left foot and say “Heel” in a firm and clear voice.
Step 3:	As you walk, make sure your puppy stays close to your left leg. Reward them regularly with treats and praise to reinforce the behavior.
Step 4:	If your puppy starts to pull or get distracted, stop walking and use a verbal correction such as “No” or “Ah-ah”. Then, start again from the beginning of the exercise.
Step 5:	Gradually increase the distance and duration of your “Heel” walks with your puppy, rewarding them each time they stay close and focused on you.

It’s important to remember that teaching the “Heel” command takes patience and consistency. But with practice and positive reinforcement, your Lhasa Apso puppy will learn to walk calmly by your side, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.

Training Tips

When it comes to training your Lhasa Apso puppy, there are certain tips that can help make the experience more effective and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. These useful training tips can help you achieve the best results during your training sessions. With consistency, patience, and a positive attitude, you can turn your dog into a well-behaved and obedient companion.

1. Consistency Is Key

One of the most important factors to keep in mind when training a Lhasa Apso puppy is consistency. This means ensuring that you use the same commands, same tone of voice, and same rewards and consequences every time you conduct a training session.

To understand the importance of consistency, let’s take an example. Suppose you use the command “sit” to instruct your Lhasa Apso to sit down on the ground, and you use the command “down” to instruct your puppy to lie down. If you use these commands interchangeably, your puppy will get confused, and it will be difficult for them to understand which action corresponds to which command.

To avoid such confusion, make sure to use the same command for the same action in every training session. Consistency makes it easier for your puppy to learn and develop good habits.

You must also maintain consistency in the rewards and consequences you offer. For instance, if you give your dog a treat for every successful “sit” command, you should follow the same pattern every time. This will help reinforce good behavior and make your puppy excited about following commands.

To keep track of your consistency, you may create a schedule or use note-taking tools such as tables. Here’s an example of a table to keep track of the commands you teach:

Command	Consistent name and tone of voice	Consistent reward or consequence
Sit	Sit / “sit down”	Treat and verbal praise
Down	Down / “lie down”	Treat and verbal praise
Stay	Stay / “stay there”	Treat and verbal praise when release the command
Come	Come / “come here”	Treat and verbal praise
Heel	Heel / “heel beside me”	Treat and verbal praise when maintaining position

By maintaining consistency in your training, you can make the process efficient and enjoyable for both you and your Lhasa Apso puppy.

2. Positive Reinforcement Works Best

Using positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train your Lhasa Apso puppy. Here are some tips for using positive reinforcement:

Give treats: use small, tasty treats as a reward when your puppy correctly performs a command.
Praise your puppy: in addition to treats, use verbal praise to let your puppy know it has done well. Use a happy voice and pet your puppy to reinforce the positive behavior.
Be consistent: use positive reinforcement every time your puppy performs a command correctly. This helps to reinforce the proper behavior and makes it easier for your puppy to understand what is expected.
Avoid negative reinforcement: negative reinforcement can damage the bond between you and your puppy. Scolding, hitting, or using other forms of punishment can lead to anxiety or fear and cause your puppy to withdraw from you.
Be patient: different puppies will learn at different rates. It is important to remain consistent and patient as your puppy progresses through training. Be prepared to spend weeks or even months working with your puppy to achieve your desired results.

Using positive reinforcement will not only improve your puppy’s behavior, it will also strengthen your bond with your furry friend. By providing treats, praise, and consistency, you are creating a positive and loving environment that your puppy will thrive in. So be patient, stay positive, and enjoy the training process with your Lhasa Apso puppy!

3. Short and Frequent Sessions

When it comes to training your Lhasa Apso puppy, short and frequent sessions are a must. It is essential to keep the training sessions brief and focused on one command at a time to prevent overwhelming your puppy.

Ideally, each training session should last 5-10 minutes and be conducted multiple times a day. This approach will help your puppy retain the information better, and you will see progress in your puppy’s behavior more quickly.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, it is crucial to choose a time when your puppy is alert and receptive to learning. Avoid training sessions when your puppy is overly tired, hungry, or distracted.

Here are some tips for incorporating short and frequent training sessions into your daily routine:

Time of Day	Training Activity
Morning	Teach your Lhasa Apso puppy a new command, such as “sit”.
Afternoon	Take a short walk with your puppy and reinforce previously learned commands, such as “heel”.
Evening	Play a game with your puppy that reinforces commands, such as “fetch” or “come”.

Additionally, be patient and don’t expect your Lhasa Apso puppy to learn everything in just one session. It takes time and repetition to train a puppy effectively. If your puppy seems to be struggling with a command, go back to basics and reinforce the previously learned commands before introducing something new.

By keeping your training sessions short and frequent, you will create a positive and stimulating environment for your Lhasa Apso puppy. This approach will also help your puppy develop a positive association with training and learning, making it easier to teach more advanced commands in the future.

4. Make It a Fun Experience

Training your Lhasa Apso puppy can be a challenging experience, but it doesn’t have to be boring. The key to a successful training session is to make it a fun experience for your furry friend. Here are some tips to make training enjoyable for your puppy:

Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to make training a fun experience for your Lhasa Apso puppy. Rewarding your puppy with treats or verbal praise whenever he obeys a command will encourage him to repeat the behavior in the future.
Play Games: Incorporating games into your training sessions can make them more enjoyable for your puppy. For example, you can play hide-and-seek with your puppy to teach him the “come” command.
Vary Your Training Routine: Doing the same thing every day can be boring for your puppy. Switching up your training routine and introducing new commands can make training more interesting and engaging.
Use Toys: Using toys during training can help make it a more enjoyable experience for your Lhasa Apso. For example, you can use a toy to teach your puppy the “fetch” command.
Keep Training Sessions Short: Lhasa Apsos have a short attention span, so keeping training sessions short (10-15 minutes) can help prevent your puppy from becoming bored or restless.
Be Patient: Remember to be patient and stay positive during training. Don’t get frustrated if your puppy doesn’t obey a command right away. Consistency and positive reinforcement will eventually pay off.

By making training a fun experience, you can strengthen the bond between you and your Lhasa Apso puppy while also teaching him important commands that will ensure his safety and well-being.

Challenges You May Face During Training

Training a Lhasa Apso puppy can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. While their affectionate nature and intelligence make them a pleasure to train, there are some common hurdles that owners may face during the process. These obstacles can hinder progress and leave owners feeling unsure of how to proceed. In this section, we will discuss some of the challenges that you may encounter while training your Lhasa Apso, as well as offer tips and strategies for overcoming them. So, let’s dive in and explore some of the hurdles you may face during your training journey.

1. Stubbornness

One of the most common challenges that Lhasa Apso puppy owners face during training is stubbornness. As independent dogs, they can sometimes be difficult to motivate and may resist commands, especially if they sense that they are not in the mood for it. However, with patience and consistency, even the most stubborn of Lhasa Apsos can be trained to obey commands.

What causes stubbornness in Lhasa Apsos?

Lhasa Apsos are an ancient breed, and their independence was a necessary trait when they were originally bred to guard monasteries in Tibet. This trait has been passed down through generations, and as a result, they may sometimes appear to be aloof and headstrong. Additionally, past experiences may influence their behavior. If your Lhasa Apso experienced trauma or abuse before they came to you, they may be less inclined to trust you and may be more resistant to commands.

How to overcome stubbornness?

The key to training a stubborn Lhasa Apso is to be patient, consistent, and positive. Combat stubbornness by setting expectations and offering rewards for good behavior. Here are a few tips to help you overcome stubbornness in your Lhasa Apso puppy:

Tips	Explanation
Be consistent and patient	Repeat commands with conviction and positivity. Avoid scolding or punishing your pup as it can cause more stubbornness.
Offer rewards	As stubbornness is often linked to a lack of motivation, create a reward system to motivate your puppy. Reward with their favorite treat or toy.
Adjust your training methods	Try different training methods that work better for your pup. For example, some Lhasa Apsos respond better to visual cues compared to spoken commands.
Be understanding of past experiences	Consider rescue pups have experienced abuse or trauma. Understand that it might take them a little longer to learn trust and obedience.

It is important not to lose your cool when training a stubborn puppy. Losing your temper can make your puppy lose motivation or refuse to obey. So, remember to be patient and consistent in your training efforts. Over time, your Lhasa Apso puppy will learn to obey and trust you.

2. Distractions

During training sessions, distractions can easily throw off your Lhasa Apso puppy’s focus and make it difficult for them to learn new commands. Common distractions can come in the form of noises, other animals, or even smells. It’s important to keep in mind that your puppy’s attention span is limited, especially during the early stages of training. Here are some tips to deal with distractions during training:

Start with an Environment with Minimal Distractions: When first introducing a new command, choose an environment with minimal distractions. This can be a quiet room in your house or a secluded area in your backyard. As your Lhasa Apso becomes more comfortable with a command, you can gradually introduce them to environments with more distractions.
Use Treats as a Distraction: If your Lhasa Apso is easily distracted, you can use treats as a distraction tool. Hold a treat in front of your puppy’s nose and move it around while giving a command. This will help redirect their attention to you and the command.
Teach Your Lhasa Apso to Ignore Distractions: Another option is to teach your Lhasa Apso to ignore distractions. Start by introducing a command, such as “leave it,” which teaches them to ignore items or situations. Gradually increase the difficulty of the distractions, such as a toy or treat, and reward them when they successfully ignore it.
Remove Distractions: In environments with too many distractions, remove them. For example, if you’re training your Lhasa Apso in a park and there are too many other dogs, move to a quieter area or try training at a different time of day.
Be Patient: Remember that distractions are a natural part of the training process. Be patient with your Lhasa Apso and take breaks if needed. As training progresses, they will become better at focusing and following commands.

By following these tips, you can help your Lhasa Apso navigate through distractions during training and succeed in learning new commands.

3. Anxiety and Fear

It is not uncommon for Lhasa Apso puppies to experience anxiety and fear during training sessions. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as unfamiliar surroundings, loud noises, or past traumatic experiences. If your puppy is showing signs of anxiety or fear, such as trembling, panting, or trying to hide, it is important to address the issue before proceeding with training.

Here are some tips to help your Lhasa Apso overcome anxiety and fear during training:

Start small: If your puppy is feeling overwhelmed or anxious, start with small steps and gradually build up to more complex commands. For example, start with sitting in a quiet room and then slowly add distractions such as toys or treats.
Be patient and calm: Lhasa Apsos are sensitive dogs and can pick up on your emotions. If you are feeling frustrated or anxious, this can transfer to your puppy and make the situation worse. Stay patient and calm, and use a reassuring tone of voice when giving commands.
Use positive reinforcement: Rewarding your puppy for good behavior is a great way to build their confidence and reduce anxiety. Offer treats, praise, or playtime for each successful command to help your puppy associate training with positive experiences.
Avoid punishment: Punishing your puppy for not obeying commands can increase their anxiety and fear. Use positive reinforcement instead and avoid yelling, hitting, or any other negative behavior.
Get professional help: If your Lhasa Apso’s anxiety or fear is severe, it may be necessary to seek professional help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide tailored advice and support to help your puppy overcome their fears.

Training a Lhasa Apso puppy can be challenging but it is important to remain patient, calm and understanding when it comes to anxiety and fear. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your puppy can overcome their fears and become a more confident and obedient companion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, training your Lhasa Apso puppy in basic commands is crucial for building a strong bond with your furry friend, enhancing communication, and ensuring their safety and health. By teaching your puppy commands such as sit, down, stay, come, and heel, you are setting the foundation for a well-behaved and obedient dog.

Remember to always approach training with consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Short and frequent sessions will yield better results than long and infrequent ones. Make the training experience as fun as possible for both you and your puppy.

While you may face challenges during the training process, such as stubbornness, distractions, and anxiety, with persistence and dedication, you can overcome them.

Finally, if you find that you do not have the time or expertise to train your Lhasa Apso puppy yourself, do not hesitate to seek the assistance of a professional dog trainer who can ensure that your puppy receives the necessary obedience training.

In summary, by investing time and effort into training your Lhasa Apso puppy in basic commands, you are setting both you and your furry friend up for a positive and fulfilling life together.

FAQs

As a new puppy owner, you may have some questions about the training process for your Lhasa Apso. We understand that there may be some areas of uncertainty or confusion, which is why we’ve compiled this list of frequently asked questions to provide you with some insight and guidance. Take a look at these common concerns and see if your question has already been answered.

1. When should I start training my Lhasa Apso puppy?

When should I start training my Lhasa Apso puppy?

It is recommended to start training your Lhasa Apso puppy as early as possible, ideally between 8 and 12 weeks old. This is because puppies have a critical period of socialization during this time, and introducing them to basic commands and positive reinforcement techniques can help them develop into well-behaved, obedient dogs.

Benefits of early training:
1. Establish good behavior habits early on
2. Build a stronger bond with your puppy
3. Increase your puppy’s confidence and reduce anxiety
4. Help prevent behavior problems in the future
5. Ensure better obedience and responsiveness to commands

However, keep in mind that puppies have short attention spans and may not be able to handle extended training sessions. Training should be kept short and frequent, with a focus on positive reinforcement methods. As your puppy matures and develops, you can gradually increase the duration and complexity of the training sessions. By starting early and being consistent in your training efforts, you’ll be setting your Lhasa Apso puppy up for a lifetime of good behavior and obedience.

2. How long does it take to train a Lhasa Apso?

Training your Lhasa Apso will require a lot of patience and consistency. Every dog is unique, and their training will depend on their personality and temperament, so it’s difficult to give an exact timeline for how long it will take to train a Lhasa Apso. However, with the right approach and technique, you can start to see some progress within just a few weeks.

Here’s a rough estimate of how long you can expect it to take to teach your Lhasa Apso some basic commands:

Command	Duration of Training
Sit	1-2 weeks
Down	2-3 weeks
Stay	3-4 weeks
Come	4-6 weeks
Heel	6-8 weeks

It’s important to remember that the duration of training will depend on various factors, including the age and personality of your Lhasa Apso, the difficulty of the command, and how consistent and persistent you are with training.

Additionally, some Lhasa Apsos may take longer to learn certain commands or may have more difficulty with them due to their stubborn nature. This is why it’s important to be patient and persistent with your training and to adapt your approach based on your dog’s individual needs.

Ultimately, the duration of training will vary, but with the right approach, consistency, and patience, you can train your Lhasa Apso to be a well-behaved and obedient companion.

3. What should I do when my Lhasa Apso refuses to obey a command?

It can be frustrating and discouraging when your Lhasa Apso refuses to obey a command despite your best efforts to train them. However, it’s important not to become discouraged and to avoid using punishment as a method of correction. Instead, try the following tips if your Lhasa Apso refuses to obey a command:

Tip	Description
1. Repeat the Command	Repeating the command in a calm, firm tone can reinforce the importance of the command to your Lhasa Apso. However, avoid becoming frustrated or angry as this can further discourage your dog.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement	When your Lhasa Apso does obey a command, always provide praise, treats, or affection as positive reinforcement. This not only encourages good behavior but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
3. Assess Your Training Techniques	If your Lhasa Apso frequently refuses to obey commands, it may be time to assess your training techniques. Are you being consistent? Are you providing enough positive reinforcement? Are your training sessions too long or too short? Adjusting these factors can make a big difference in your dog’s willingness to obey commands.
4. Eliminate Distractions	If your Lhasa Apso is easily distracted, it may be helpful to eliminate distractions during training sessions. This means choosing a quiet, calm location without other people, animals, or loud noises that could distract your dog.
5. Seek Professional Help	If you’re still struggling with training, it may be beneficial to seek professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist. They can offer guidance and techniques tailored to your Lhasa Apso’s specific needs, and can also help address any underlying behavioral issues.

Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, and it’s important to be patient and consistent in your training efforts. With positive reinforcement, patience, and perseverance, your Lhasa Apso can learn to obey commands and become a well-trained and obedient companion.

4. Can Lhasa Apsos be trained to do tricks?

Lhasa Apsos are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners, making them great candidates for learning tricks. Some popular tricks that Lhasa Apsos can be trained to do include:

Roll Over: Teaching your Lhasa Apso to roll over can be a fun and impressive trick. Start by telling your dog to “lie down,” then lure them onto their back with a treat. Once they are there, guide them through the motion of rolling over and reward them with the treat.
Shake: This is a simple trick that can be taught by holding out your hand and saying “shake” while tapping the dog’s paw. When they lift their paw, reward them with praise and a treat.
Spin: To teach your dog to spin, start by getting them to stand and then luring them with a treat in a circular motion. As they follow the treat, say the command “spin” and reward them when they complete the circle.
Fetch: While not necessarily a trick, fetching is an important skill that can be taught. Start by encouraging your Lhasa Apso to pick up a toy or ball and bring it to you, rewarding them when they do so. Over time, you can add in the command “fetch.”
Jump through a hoop: This trick takes a bit more training and coordination but can be a fun challenge for your Lhasa Apso. Start by holding a hula hoop on the ground and luring your dog through it with a treat. Once they are comfortable going through the hoop on the ground, gradually raise it until they are jumping through it.

Remember that teaching tricks takes time and patience, so don’t get discouraged if your Lhasa Apso doesn’t master them right away. Consistent training and positive reinforcement will go a long way in helping your dog learn new skills and tricks.

5. What if I don’t have time to train my Lhasa Apso myself?

What if I don’t have time to train my Lhasa Apso myself?

Although training your Lhasa Apso puppy yourself can be a fulfilling experience, it’s understandable if you don’t have the time to do so. In such cases, there are a few options you can consider.

One option is to enroll your pup in group training classes with a professional dog trainer. These classes usually run for a few weeks and are aimed at teaching basic obedience commands to your pup. They are also a great opportunity for your puppy to interact with other dogs and people, providing much-needed socialization and sensory stimulation.

Another option is to hire a professional dog trainer to train your pup one-on-one. This option is more expensive than group training classes but offers a more personalized approach to training. A professional dog trainer will be able to tailor the training to suit your pup’s individual needs and behaviors.

If cost is an issue, you could also consider using online dog training programs. These programs offer a more affordable way to train your pup and can be done from the comfort of your own home. They usually consist of video tutorials, guides, and other resources that will guide you through the training process step by step.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to ensure that your Lhasa Apso is getting the training they need. Whether you choose to train your pup yourself or seek the help of a professional, remember that training is crucial for the safety, health, and happiness of your furry friend.

Option	Pros	Cons
Group Training Classes	Opportunity for socialization, group learning environment, more affordable than private training	Less personalized, may not address individual behavior issues, requires time commitment to attend classes
Private One-on-One Training	Personalized approach, addresses individual behavior issues, can be more effective for some dogs	More expensive than group classes, requires scheduling and time commitment, may not provide as much socialization
Online Dog Training Programs	More affordable, can be done from home, flexible schedule, may offer personalized support	May not provide as much socialization, may not be as effective for some dogs, requires self-motivation and discipline to complete program

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best age to start training my Lhasa Apso puppy?

The ideal time to start training your Lhasa Apso is between 8 and 12 weeks of age.

2. How long should each training session be?

Training sessions should be short and frequent, no more than 10-15 minutes per session.

3. My Lhasa Apso seems too stubborn to respond to training. What should I do?

Stay calm and patient. Try breaking down the command into smaller steps and using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

Yes, Lhasa Apsos are highly trainable and can learn a variety of tricks with consistent training and positive reinforcement.

5. How often should I give my Lhasa Apso a treat during training?

Try to limit treats to no more than three times per session to avoid overfeeding and potential health issues.

6. What do I do if my Lhasa Apso becomes distracted during training?

Redirect their attention with a toy or treat, and try to eliminate distractions in the environment during training sessions.

7. Can Lhasa Apsos be trained to walk off leash?

With consistent training and proper socialization, Lhasa Apsos can be trained to walk off leash. However, it is important to always prioritize their safety and obedience before allowing off leash freedom.

8. How long does it typically take to fully train a Lhasa Apso?

Training can vary in duration depending on the individual dog, their age, and their previous training experiences. However, with consistent and positive reinforcement, most Lhasa Apsos can learn basic commands within a few weeks.

9. Can I still train my adult Lhasa Apso if they were not trained as a puppy?

Yes, it is never too late to start training a Lhasa Apso. However, it may take longer for an adult dog to learn new commands and behaviors compared to a puppy.

10. Should I consider hiring a professional dog trainer for my Lhasa Apso?

If you are struggling to train your Lhasa Apso or have limited time to dedicate to training, a professional dog trainer can be a valuable resource. However, it is important to research and choose a trainer who uses positive reinforcement training methods and has experience with Lhasa Apsos specifically.