| Yes, I would wait for the shots before going to the public class. You don't need a private trainer, in my opinion, merely to get a few week jump start. You can start some basic training at home on your own.
Regarding "training".
You need to establish yourself as leader. You can teach the puppy to sit now on your own. Teach him to sit - there is a bunch of info on the net and DT how to do this. Use treats.
Once he knows sit (a command), start learn to earn. The puppy gets nothing for free. A great way to start basic training around the house. Establishes you as the leader.
Establish a rule -he doesn't get on the couch unless invited. If he jumps up anyway, physically pick him up (establishes you as dominant)and say OFF firmly without scaring the poopy out of him.
Simply having sessions with the pup where you sit on the floor and hold him belly up in between your legs establishes your dominance in a nice way. Hold him on this back until he settle then take the time to rub the paws, the belly, get him used to being handled by you.
Occassionaly, pick the puppy up by crading your hands under his rib cage and lift him off the floor about 6 inches and let his feet dangle until he settles down. It establishes your dominance in low key way.
Regarding the crate, while you are home and able to watch him, let him be out of the crate with you. Try tethering him with a leash as you go about your household stuff. If you cant be with him, crate him for that time. The crate should be well established now as a fun place for him to be so when you do go back to teach, he won't care so much about being in it more while you are gone. Start good 'coming and going' habits now to minimize separation anxiety, ie, don't make a big fuss over leaving or coming in the room. Make it low key. If the puppy is overly excited to see you when you return, don't play to it. Do your 'thing' first, play it cool, then call the pup over, sit, then reward with your attention and affection. |