A new puppy for Christmas can be joyful and exhilerating gift for your family until that puppy starts to grow and grow...and grow. Soon, that little bundle of fun is getting into the garbage and you've cleaned your rug so many times after "accidents" that your knees have developed callouses. There are many reasons for getting a new puppy into a positive training environment, not the least of which is your peace of mind. Puppies actually start learning at the age of 2 and 1/2 weeks. Translated, this means that they are already learning how to behave in your home environment. If they are jumping on the furniture (or your guests) and stealing your slippers, it's because they've already learned about the payoffs involved in those activities.

It's essential to develop a positive leadership role with your dog from the moment you bring him or her home. Beginnings are important. When you welcome a pet into your home, you promise to keep him for life. You must make him a priority until he feels comfortable as a member of the family. The holiday season - with its shopping, entertaining and general confusion - rarely leaves you with time, energy and attention to spare.

So, now that things are settling down, it's time to settle in. Structure is the key element in this relationship. Yes, it's cute when "Molly" jumps onto your lap and licks your face...now. When she's 60 pounds and doing that to your mother-in-law who's come for a visit, it might not be so entertaining. Dogs need boundaries. If "Molly" likes to be on the couch, teach her to come up only on invitation and to get off when you ask her to. If "Elroy" likes to bark at the window, calmly guide him away from it (in a neutral manner) and show him the bone that he can chew on.

It's best to get your new puppy into a training class as soon as possible. It is never too early. Make sure that the training school that you choose focuses on creating a positive learning relationship using behavior modification. Ask questions. Make sure that the trainers are qualified, experienced and educated. If you can, visit the class before signing up. Get a feel for the methodology and meet the person instructing the classes.

Remember, training your dog is a personal decision, one that you should feel good about. After all, it's not just a Christmas puppy, it's a friend for life.