Best Age to Train a Dog for Habitual Touching: Optimal

If you wish to cultivate a harmonious relationship with your dog through physical contact, the key lies in the puppy's weaning period, particularly when they are around three months old. This is because puppies at this stage are particularly receptive to new experiences. Pet owners should take advantage of this time to help their dogs develop a habit of not resisting touch and to shower them with ample affection, thereby successfully earning their trust.

Now, how can you teach your dog to get used to being touched? Just follow these three simple steps.

1. Stay Still: Position yourself on the ground, knees bent, and use your legs to gently encircle the dog's body from behind. Then, wrap your arms around the dog's chest and neck, ensuring the puppy remains motionless.

2. Control the Nose and Mouth: Gently hold your dog's mouth and nose with your hand, and stroke in various directions—left, right, up, and down—or simply rotate your hand to touch different areas.

3. Petting: If the dog remains calm during the first step, you can start touching various parts of its body. Pay special attention to sensitive areas such as the paws, ears, and tail. (By the way, once your dog is accustomed to this, you can invite other family members and friends to join in the petting.)

When initially training your dog to get used to being touched, it's a good idea to do so just before mealtime. When your dog behaves well, promptly reward it with a delicious meal. This reinforces the idea that good behavior is rewarded, making it easier for your dog to become accustomed to being touched.