Don’t sell your dog short; invest the time required for proper training. The rewards for a well-trained dog are many, both for you and your pet. A disciplined dog will give your family years of enjoyment. In this article you will learn just how beneficial training your best friend can be.
Dog Needs
Your dog needs to be active frequently. Don’t let your dog sit around with nothing to do. They won’t get any exercise that way and if they’re too bored, they might sniff around and get into some trouble. Conditions of boredom are not conducive to training. Your dog needs proper exercise to function to his highest potential. Lead your dog on the path to fitness by walking or jogging every day.
When house-breaking your puppy, choose a specific phrase to use when it’s time to go outdoors. Whenever you take your pet outside to use the bathroom, choose a phrase, like “go potty”, so he remembers what he is there to do.
Be mindful of how long the sessions are when you train your dog. Dogs can quickly lose focus when you prolong activities. Ten minutes is about the length of time a dog can handle.
Keep training sessions short. Dogs don’t have long attention spans so keeping training short and concise keeps it from becoming something that they dread. If more training is desired, work in some break times so your dog can play before continuing with training.
If your pet is a problematic barker, try this training tip. Choose a simple word or directive you can use to quiet him down and discourage barking. When he barks, show him his favorite treat, and repeat the command. “Quiet” works well. At this time, give the treat to your dog. By repeating this, the dog learns that silence brings treats.
Changing your vocal tone depending on what you want to communicate will help train your dog. Your commands should be said in the same tone and volume time and time again. You should use a firm tone of voice for your commands, a loud tone for your scoldings, and a natural, pleasant tone for your praise.
A good tip is to make sure you are aware if other dogs are present when you are walking your dog. Not all dogs are friendly, and not all owners are responsible. Try to keep your dog distant from any dogs that seem aggressive or antisocial.
The first step in leash training a young puppy is to get him or her used to the collar during play. It is important for the puppy to get used to the collar so it can be identified.
When your dog is displaying unwanted behaviors, use water to spray him. This helps the dog learn which behaviors are not acceptable. In short order, the dog is sure to cease such behavior, and assume the role of fun, yet obedient animal.
Is your dog getting all their required nutrients? Dogs are like children in the sense that bad diets lead to them acting bratty and hyperactive. Find out what type of nutrition your dog’s breed requires and adjust his diet accordingly; doing this will help your dog maintain his energy level. Consult your veterinarian about any special dietary needs that your dog might require.
Patience and dogs go hand-in-hand. Dogs cannot speak English, and they are not human. The dog can only understand simple gestures and vocal tones but won’t understand your meaning. Stay calm, step back and take a breather when you become frustrated.
Older Dogs
Older dogs aren’t the same as puppies. Older dogs are unlikely to be completely trainable, as they will already be accustomed to certain behaviors to some extent. Remember that if you adopt an older dog, they may be very set in their ways. Although you may be able to teach an older dog new habits, there may be some habits that cannot be changed.
Training your pet is a very good investment to make. A badly behaved dog can destroy your house and stress everyone in the family; soon no one will want him around. The information provided will help you to learn how to train your dog so that he becomes a beloved, well-behaved member of your family.