Don’t run out and adopt a dog if you haven’t given it much thought. Having a dog in the family requires the right preparation. Training is one of those commitments, and it is extremely time-consuming and important. This article provides the basics for training your dog.
Commands and corrections should be short and straight to the point. Don’t rant on and on about how bad your dog is. Just tell them no, and point them in the desired direction. The tone of your voice should let them know you are serious about the command you are making.
Put yourself in your dog’s proverbial shoes, or paws, rather. Frustration is easy during canine training. Try to think the way your dog does. This allows you to gain more insight into what is most likely to work and what should be avoided.
Keep your dog well exercised and active. Dogs can become bored easily. When dogs feel bored, they are much more stubborn when it comes to training. Dogs are more inclined to obey when they are regularly taken out for exercise and happily accepted as a member of your family. Bring your dog along when you walk or jog.
Are you house training your dog? If so, then understand that the food and water they consume must come out at some point. In order to foster routine toilet habits, give your dog good food between 2 and 3 times daily on a firm schedule. This will help you figure out when the best time is to take your dog out and avoid accidents.
Continue training your dog so he doesn’t forget how to learn. Most owners think training once is all that it takes. But dogs can become complacent just like their human counterparts. For this reason, it is especially important to hold your dog to a strict disciplinary system.
If your dog leaps on you, hold his paws and squeeze them a little so he will know this is not acceptable. If done lightly, it won’t hurt the dog, but it’ll make them uncomfortable. This will help them to stop this action immediately.
Positive reinforcement is the preferred training method for dogs. You can use treats, toys, positive speech and even belly rubs. Do not ever scream at or strike your dog. Not only does it not work, it encourages the belief by the dog that you have no idea what is going on. Be firm, positive and consistent, and you will get great results.
Any dog can be trained. Training your dog is ultimately your responsibility, the last thing you want is your dog to be constantly behaving badly.
