Training Tips for Corgi Mix Puppy

The Welsh Corgi is the favorite dog of Queen Elizabeth II, of England. While it's true that the Corgi originated in Wales, its original function was driving cattle. They are intelligent, easy to train, energetic and affectionate. If adopting a Corgi mix, chances are it inherited some of these traits from its ancestry. With proper, patient training and care, the Corgi mix is likely to prove a faithful companion throughout its life.

  1. Setting Boundaries

    • Corgis were bred to herd cattle. They are intelligent and think for themselves, and sometimes are headstrong. To ensure a Corgi mix puppy responds well to commands, set boundaries as soon as she is brought home. Establish yourself as the pack leader by giving the dog rules to follow. Regardless of the rules chosen for the dog, be sure to enforce them consistently throughout the life of the dog.

    Exercise

    • Prevent behavior problems from developing by ensuring the puppy gets plenty of exercise every day. Corgi mixes are typically energetic and, because they are also intelligent, bored puppies often find ways to entertain themselves. Bored canines sometimes develop destructive habits. Avoid this problem entirely by walking the Corgi mix every day. Spend time training or playing in the yard to help him burn energy. Chews, bones and toys also help combat boredom.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • Don't use negative or harsh training methods with the puppy. Corgis are both stubborn and affectionate, and don't respond well to punishment. Punishment causes fear or resistance to training, sparking other behavior problems such as aggression. Instead of punishing the puppy, reward her for preferred behaviors. Positive reinforcement training methods involve rewarding puppies for correctly obeying commands, or even attempting to do so. Use treats and praise to show the puppy what is wanted and to coax her to obey. Gradually use fewer and fewer treats as a reward as the puppy gets better at following commands.

    Proper Corrections

    • Puppies make mistakes. His curiosity sometimes gets the best of him. His instinct to chew, for instance, leads him to pull feathers out of a favorite pillow. Don't punish him; this simply confuses and frightens him. When the puppy is caught getting into trouble, interrupt the behavior with a loud sound such as a whistle or a clap. Speak the words "leave it" to teach the puppy how to leave things alone on command. When he looks up at the noise, reward with praise and a treat. Over time, slowly stop making the noise to interrupt undesirable behavior, and rely on the "leave it" command alone.