Getting a dog is a big deal, and it requires some serious thought. Dogs need a lot of attention, care, and commitment from their owners. In order for dogs to behave, they need a lot of good training. If you’ve adopted a dog and it needs training, you could use the tips written in this guide for that purpose.
As your dog progresses, you won’t need to exert so much control. Your dog will be happy when he gets rewards for his good behavior, such as freedom. Just be careful that you do not allow too much freedom, too quickly, as this can quickly derail your hard work and training.
Every command should be giving with the same tone and volume. Your tone conveys seriousness to the dog and the fact that they must obey you. You should also work on developing different tones to use in different situations. For example, you can have a sharp one for disciplinary purposes, and a firm, but not-as-sharp one for simple commands.
When house training your dog, be sure your dog has a predictable feeding and elimination routine. This can train your dog to whine or come get you when he feels the urge, so you can let him out and prevent him from doing his business inside. Following a schedule will also help your dog learn how to “hold it” until his next potty break.
Avoid letting your dog have accidents when potty training. Watch your pet to identify his unique behaviors and signals that indicate when he must relieve himself. Pacing back and forth and showing you more attention are types of triggers. If you see any of these signs, get him outdoors! Get his leash as you take him out. Reward the dog for using the bathroom outdoors. Soon, your dog will signal you when he needs to go outside.
Training your dog requires you to be firm and authoritative. You should not be extremely strict or loving all the time. Find a balance on gentle firmness to use with your dog. This ensures you have a positive relationship between the dog and yourself.
A spray bottle filled with water is a great deterrent when your dog is misbehaving. Then your dog learns some things aren’t ok. Eventually, they won’t do these behaviors anymore and your dog will be obedient and playful.
To enforce good behavior when training your dog, remember to praise him regularly. Smile, offers treats and show excitement to relay to your dog that he is doing something positive. You should not give them a treat or reward if they are not doing something good.
Each and every thing you and your dog do together is forming his behavior and personality. This is crucial to know because you may undo certain behaviors by engaging in horseplay or by teasing your pet. It is important to shape the dog’s progress by consistently striving for good behavior.
Challenge your dog on a regular basis. Test your dog on occasion, to be sure that he remembers what you have taught him and help him keep it fresh in his mind.
Older Dogs
Older dogs aren’t the same as puppies. Most older dogs will be harder to train since their own personalities have already settled in. Keep in mind that adopting old dogs may mean you adopt dogs that are set in their behaviors. Although you may be able to teach it some new things, sometimes the best thing to do is focus on the negatives that you want to modify and live with the rest.
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.
