Every dog needs to be trained to behave how you would have it behave. They already have the correct abilities, but they aren’t synced correctly out of the box. Dogs are inborn to learn training, but need the help of their owner.
The best tip anyone can offer with regards to dog training is be the alpha. Dogs are looking for their human masters to be the pack leader. At all expense display confidence, firmness, and do not, under any circumstances show them weakness. They naturally want to follow a strong leader, so make sure that you present yourself as such.
Your home is your domain. Your dog must see the environment they live in as your territory. Stepping around a lying dog or not moving the animal from a place you intend to use gives him the right of way. This should not be allowed. Dominance in the pack means exercising your power in a non-confrontational way but with firm resolve that this is your territory.
Give your puppy some toys to chew on so they do not hurt while teething, keep other things they might want to chew on out of their reach! You should replace the object with a chew toy as soon as this occurs so your dog understands what is okay to chew on. If the puppy is suffering any pain from teething, freeze a wet washcloth for him or her to chew on.
Socialization skills are an important part of a well-rounded training program for any canine companion. Learning to get along with adults, children and other pets makes for a happy dog that is welcome in his surroundings. Socializing your dog is easy and can be incorporated into your daily activities. An evening dog walk, trip to the park or visit to the pet store can provide a great opportunity to expose your dog to short interactions with neighbors and their pets, while getting much needed exercise and bonding time with you.
When you first get your puppy don’t expect him to learn a large number of commands in a short amount of time. Your puppy needs time to acclimate to his new environment. During this time, it is possible to teach him two or three simple commands. Do not move on to other commands until your puppy has mastered these.
Always have a treat for rewarding your dog. You want your pet to know that you are pleased with his behavior. This is the best way to ensure that the dog understands the difference between right and wrong.
Dogs usually respond well to physical rewards when being trained. Almost all dogs have an extremely large capacity for love. That makes them respond very well to rewards like belly scratching, back petting and brushing. Your dog wants to be loved and greatly appreciates you giving him affection. Show your happiness with his success this way.
If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, an easy way to train them out of it is to avoid giving them attention immediately before and after you leave. It may seem mean to the dog if you don’t say goodbye before you leave, but those long goodbye cuddles just give the dog a chance to get worked up.
Make training with your dog fun. Try and develop a bond with your dog by playing with him, it will only encourage the dog to want to please you more during training. Training can be pretty fun, but make sure you get plenty of non-training play in too.
When your dog does not do what you want, tell him “No!” then redirect him. Be patient and calm. Your dog wants to please you, but sometimes dogs just don’t understand what is expected of them. Never hit or yell at your dog. If you yell and hit, your dog will just think you are out of control. You want your dog to trust you and respect you as the pack leader, so stay calm and consistent.
Never use human shampoo on a dog. While it may be tempting to have your dog smelling like your favorite shampoo, most hair products for humans are far too harsh for a dog’s sensitive skin. If you are in a pinch and must use a human shampoo, try to use one formulated to be gentle enough for a baby.
Praise your dog lavishly every time he or she comes closer to following commands. For instance, when first teaching the dog to come, praise for turning in the right direction. Then praise for a few steps toward you. Eventually, praise the dog enthusiastically for running straight to you at the first call. The dog associates obedience with the joy of pleasing you and shares in your excitement.
You should call your pet by name at least 10 times a day. You can practice using their name when you give them treats and food. This will help them to get used to their name. Don’t punish your pet at anytime for coming to you when you call their name.
Repetition is one of the most important aspects of training your dog. Whether you are teaching obedience or a new trick, it is important to repeat the command to your dog on a regular basis. Eventually, your dog will catch on to what you mean when you say the term and begin to act accordingly, especially if you are able to provide an action to go along with your repeated term.
A pet owner who can help a dog reach its potential will have an easy time and a long, enjoyable life spent in the company of an obedient animal. As much as the owner will be pleased with what the dog has learned, the dog will also be happy.
