The reason why so many dogs are in shelters is because it doesn’t work out well with the owner. However, this does not have to be. Having an obedient dog can be an excellent addition to your family. It’s not difficult to train your dog once you know how. Use the tips below to get started.
When crate training your new puppy, take it in small manageable steps so the animal can become accustomed to the changes easily. When your dog appears to be at ease while inside the crate with the door ajar, you can help him adjust to the crate even further by slowly latching the door and rewarding him with treats fed to him through the spaces between the wires. Start small, like at 10 seconds per approach, and then gradually increase the times. Freaking out your dog is a sign that you need to slow down.
When you start canine training, come up with a verbal cue that will tell your pet they’ve followed your command. The word “yes” can be the bridge between rewards and good behavior.
Whenever you’re training your dog, be sure and use the same vocal tone when giving commands. They will know this tone of your voice and associate it with being in trouble. This also assists the dog in understanding what the difference is between a tone for a command and the tone for discipline.
“Leave It!” should be one of the first commands that a puppy learns. This command instructs them to release an object and walk away. “Leave it” can prevent furniture chewing, save valuable objects from being destroyed and save your dog from consuming dangerous and/or poisonous substances.
When training your dog, make sure to have fun with him too. If you do so, your dog will feel closer to you, and even respond to training better. While training can be considered fun, be prepared to spend some time just playing as well.
Make sure training periods are short in duration. Your dog’s memory and attention span is short, keep the training this way. If you want to train more, make sure to include play breaks for your dog.
Primary Reinforcement
Primary reinforcement should be used when dog training. Primary reinforcement involves utilizing something that the dog loves to reward good behavior. Some common reinforcements include your dog’s favorite treat or a belly rub. Then your dog can learn the way to get what he wants.
When training your pet, see to it that you get its attention all the time. Try to use the dog’s name in the start of the command. Secure the dog’s attention and then state what you wish him to do. Using your dog’s name lets him know you want his attention.
Take note of the tone of your voice as you discipline your pet. Your dog is sensitive to the tone of your voice and can sense your feelings based on it. A disciplinary command is best delivered in a stern tone.
Training Sessions
If you keep training sessions positive, your dog will always look forward to them. Training sessions need only be 10 to 15 minutes, so the dog reaps the benefits within his attention span. Be generous when it is time to reward! Give your dog plenty of praise and affection for his hard work and efforts. When training is fun, he will pay attention and listen to what you say.
As you can now see, it’s not impossible to teach your dog how to behave. It is imperative that you give your pet a lot of your time and attention. Utilize the tactics above to help your dog become a part of the family.