Hi,

I have a 14 week old cocker spaniel puppy. My vet has said we should train him until he's older as his bones are growing. I thought puppies should be trained when they were small and eager to learn? Also whats best collar and lead or harness and lead? Do collars and lead hurt the puppy?

Thanks,

Hi. I think your vet has muddled you! You're quite right, you need to train your puppy, little and often, as much as you can early on. It's important that lessons are short and sweet, and always finish on a success! Collars and leads aren't unkind, and are an essential. A small light collar is fine for a small pup.

I suggest you buy a copy of "The Perfect Puppy" by Gwen Bailey - it's chock-full of excellent training and rearing advice.
:)

I start training my puppies as soon as I get them at 7 weeks.  Too much exercise can harm joints, but you do'nt need to exercise your dog to train it, the best training happens on the hearth rug.

It is best to train your puppy young because from 8 to 16 weeks their brain is like a sponge taking everything in so they learn to adapt to new situations more calmer, even though to much exercise can harm them that doesn't mean you can't introduce them to new situations. carry them around supermarkets or just standing outside letting the dog take everything in.