Dog training may be intimidating for first time pet owners. With so much conflicting information out there, it is easy to become overwhelmed. The tips below can help you start training your dog properly.
If you are working on crate training your indoor puppy or dog, you can always try a few tricks. If your puppy doesn’t like being in his crate, put a dog treat or chew bone in it and close the door to keep him out. They can see and smell that bone, and they will want in the crate to have it. Open the door, and praise them when they go inside.
It takes small steps to crate train your puppy; they must become accustomed to it. Eventually they will become comfortable with the crate and you can then try to shut the door to the crate. When they allow the door to shut you can give them a treat through the wiring. Keep them in the crate for a small duration and slowly increase that duration. If your puppy gets upset, then you may need to slow down and have more patience with them.
When your pet jumps on you, squeeze its paws lightly. This will make it know jumping is not something that you want it to do. Do something that makes them uncomfortable so that they can associate their action with something negative. They will stop doing this behavior since it will be associated with a negative feeling.
Training your dog involves a firm hand. Avoid yelling at your dog. It is important to be firm when issuing a reprimand and someone who adores them otherwise. This develops a strong relationship with your dog.
Continue training your dog using the same techniques over time. Make sure that others are using similar commands if they are training your dog. Your dog will be more willing to be trained if he knows what to expect.
Wearing a puppy out by overloading it with information and training is counterproductive. Puppies can only handle small amounts of training, so it is best to keep training to short but intense periods of time. If you try to do too much too fast, he will associated it as a negative experience and will resist in the future.
A good canine training tip is to always be aware of other dogs when you’re taking your dog for a walk. There are irresponsible dog owners and dogs who feel they need to be in charge to make up for this. This is a bad combination. If you see a dog that seems to be unsociable or defensive, you must avoid it.
If you use a leash to train your pet, you must ensure that it remains loose rather than taut. Dogs like to explore new places when they are out on a walk. Since they will be so eager, they may try to pull too hard, straining the leash. A smart owner discourages behavior such as this, and encourages the dog to walk without pulling.
Be aware of special grooming requirements your dog might need. If you have a dog that requires a lot of grooming, make sure that this is done frequently. Grooming is a good way to keep a clean, happy dog which can also provide health benefits.
It’s very important to never try to quickly stop a bad behavior by provide a reward. This teaches the dog that he is in control. In other words: no treats are to be given to barking dogs.
When training, only use short sessions. Fifteen minutes is a good amount of time since more will only frustrate your dog. Once you’re finished with each session, praise your dog and play with them.
You must correct you dog each and every time he misbehaves, as well as reward the dog for correct behavior. This means to set firm rules for everyone to follow regarding your pet. It can erase what you have accomplished.
It is best to guide your dog to the correct behavior, rather than punish bad behavior. Do everything you can to cut off misbehavior before it happens, and if your dog does misbehave during training, you should show what what behavior you want to see, not punish your pet. Build a positive relationship with your dog during the training process.
If you catch your puppy in the act of chewing on something he shouldn’t, stop him immediately. Since this action teaches him what he can and cannot chew on, it will help prevent him from chewing on your things when you are distracted or just not around.
Older Dog
Keep in mind that older dogs have limitations. Older pooches may not be perfectly and easily trainable. You may have to embrace some of their quirks. If you decide to take on an older dog, be aware that they are used to routines and will have certain habits. Try to change the things that are negative, to make your older dog a better pet.
Using a variety of tasty treats as a reward during training your dog is important. Your dog will soon come to realize that training treats will not be run-of-the-mill fare, but special treats he will want to work hard to earn.
Sometimes dogs bark for nothing more than boredom. You are at fault if your dog has been barking because of boredom. This means he doesn’t have enough physical and mental stimulation during the day. Spend time playing with and walking the dog. Also, provide chew toys and maybe leave the TV on when you aren’t home.
Everyone in the family should follow the same rules when addressing your dog. For example, one person correcting your dog from jumping by saying “get off” and another using “down boy” will confuse the dog and be counterproductive to your training efforts. As long as you use consistency, then your dog has a great chance of learning all of the tricks and behaviors that you wish.
Hopefully, these tips have provided you with some very valuable suggestions. Apply these suggestions to train your dog in a healthy and happy way for the both of you.