Lots of dogs go to shelters simply because their owners become disappointed in them, though this does not need to be the case. It is possible for a dog that is trained well to become a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted family member. Turning your dog into such a dog does not have to be a difficult process, if you’re willing to invest the time and follow a few simple steps.
Gradual increments are easiest on your dog when going through crate training. When they seem comfortable in it with the door open, try shutting the gate and feed them treats through the wires. Start with short times numbering in mere seconds, and increase the intervals gradually. If the puppy gets too upset then you increased the time too much, too fast.
Your dog should always give you its attention when asked. If you are consistent and use repetition, your dog will start to wait for your signals before focusing on something.
Consistency is critical for crate training to succeed. The first thing to keep in mind is that you must let him use the bathroom as soon as he’s let out. Your puppy will eventually become able to relieve itself less frequently.
Before your dog can learn a new command it will take several repetitions. It’s very common to repeat a command up to 50 times before your dog can learn it. Being patient while trying the same task or command will allow your dog to understand it.
If you plan to incorporate a crate in canine training, choose one that corresponds to the size of your dog. Don’t forget, your puppy will grow. You need a crate that can still fit the puppy once it becomes a dog. Your dog should be able to make itself comfortable in a crate big enough for it to toss and turn.
Do not reinforce any negative behaviors accidentally. This means you must not reward your dog with attention or treats for doing something you don’t want it to do. For instance, don’t pat your dog on the head if it’s jumping up on you.
Primary Reinforcement
Use primary reinforcement to train your dog. Primary reinforcement uses the things that your dog loves as rewards for positive behavior. Rewards can be rubbing a dog’s belly or giving it a treat. Using this technique will train your dog what you expect from him.
You need to be use rewards and positive reinforcers when you are training your pet. Reward your dog with happy words, petting and an occasional very small treat when he pleases you. Never shout towards your dog, nor ever hit or physically strike him. This is ineffective and will just convince your dog that you don’t know what you are doing. Instead, show your dog what you expect and reward his obedience.
When training a dog to a leash it is important to keep the leash loose. Dogs love exploring new land whenever they get the chance to go walking. Eager dogs will begin to put some strain on their leashes. Great dog owners don’t allow this behavior. Instead, they encourage their dogs to walk with some slack in their leash.
Always avoid offering your pet a reward for bad behavior in the hopes of snuffing out an undesirable action or tendency. This will only teach the dog that it can do what it wants and has power over you. An example of something to avoid is giving your dog a treat when it is barking.
If you travel with your dogs, pack your dog’s needs for sleep, toileting and sleeping. Pack his feeding bowls, potty bags, toys, blankets and everything else needed for his care and comfort. You do not have to bring some food for your dog with you because you can easily find quality food anywhere you go.
If you see your puppy chewing on something he should not be, you need to stop him immediately. Switch out the inappropriate object for an item that belongs to your puppy to allow him to realize what is and is not okay.
Use magazines, books, documentaries and Internet sites to learn more about dogs and how to train them. Ask other people who own the same breed of dog what training techniques worked for them. Modify the method of training to suit your specific needs.
Challenging though it may be, you can have a dog who is obedient, loving and healthy. You cannot achieve this, however, unless you can provide your dog with the affection and discipline he requires. The provided steps can help you do this and give you a lovable dog that you will be proud to have.