Dog training is not a difficult or complicated business, so why do most dog owners have such a mental block when it comes to training? The answer may lie in the fact that few dog owners take the time to learn proper dog training techniques. They assume that the dog thinks the way they do, and all they have to do is say a command, and the dog will magically comply.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. At least not with any dog I’ve ever known! But the truth is that with just a few basic principles under your belt, you too can become a successful dog trainer.
Here are some useful dog training tips to get you started.
Training your dog is an on-going process and you should use every opportunity to re-enforce the lessons learned. This could be as simple as getting your dog to sit before giving him a treat, a toy or a game. You should also be sure to give the same instruction in different locations, so that your dog learns that the rule applies wherever he is, not just in the location he was originally taught it.
The sit command forms the basis of all dog obedience training and should be the first thing your dog learns, after he learns his name. To teach this command, gently push down on his behind as you give the verbal command “Sit!”, then make a hand gesture with your palm facing down.
Every time your dog does this successfully, give him a treat and praise him. This will seriously accelerate the training process.
Use your dog’s name to get his attention in all situations. This teaches him that when he hears his name he has to pay attention to you. This can be done when calling your dog at meal times or when playing games. The one exception is if you scold the dog, you always want him to associate his name with something positive.
Don’t ever use any form of punishment, verbal or physical, when training a dog. Dogs are surprisingly sensitive creatures, they are eager to please and keen to earn your approval. If you shout at the dog, or worse still, physically abuse him, you’ll just make him afraid of you. You’ll also irreparably damage the bond you have with your dog.
One of the most important dog training tips is to keep training sessions short and focused. Most dogs have quite a short attention span, and if over-whelm your dog with commands, you’ll just confuse him.
Follow these simple tips and I guarantee that your dog training efforts will be a whole lot easier. Above all have fun with this. Dog training should never be a chore. It should be a fun time spent in the company of your best buddy. Your dog will pick up on your attitude and be a whole lot more responsive.
