If you’ve never trained a dog before, you are probably eager to find some solid, helpful dog training tips. The article below contains the information that you need to know.
Giving your dog proper treats is the best way to train. You should immediately reward your dog when they follow your command. By giving treats at the proper time, you’ll ensure that your dog understands which behavior it’s being rewarded for.
Consistency is of the utmost importance when it comes to crate training. Give the puppy consistent opportunities to relieve himself every time you let him out. As he gets older, he will gain greater control of his bodily functions, making it easier to control himself.
Never tie two or more dogs in close vicinity to one another. One dog’s chain might become entangled with the other, which could lead to serious injuries. Becoming wrapped up could also cause death if one of the dogs gets so tangled and wrapped up his airway closes.
Make sure you aren’t enforcing bad behavior without meaning to. In basic terms, this means refusing to reward your dog, via attention or treats, for doing any action that you are trying to get them to stop doing. For instance, don’t pat your dog on the head if it’s jumping up on you.
Approach any unfamiliar dog with care. Walk slowly toward him and allow the dog to sniff your hand before trying to pet the dog. This gives the dog an opportunity to learn your scent. Dogs are more likely to be friendly and obedient if they recognize you.
Putting your dog on a regular schedule of feeding and walks will help to regulate his system, so he will be easier to house train. Before the dog goes to the bathroom on your carpet, you will know when it has to go outside. A schedule will train your dog to know when he will get to go out next.
When training your dog, remember to be patient. This prevents both of you from getting irritated and angry with the training. Your dog will do its best to please you, but give your dog enough time to remember orders. A puppy needs to form the association between a word and the behavior you expect with that command.
Make sure you use your dog’s name often, so that he learns to associate it with paying attention to you. Use it as often as possible when you have your puppy during the first weeks, the puppy will make the connection. It’s best to stick with shorter names, one’s that are distinguishable from other words.
House training a puppy can be frustrating, as accidents are going to occur on occasion. Always clean up accidents right away to help with the training process and keeping the area sanitary. Odor from feces or urine can stay in your carpet which will make your dog return to it when it wants to urinate. Buy a product specially designed to neutralize odors.
Leash-training starts with a loose leash. Dogs generally want to explore uncharted areas anytime they get the chance. Since they will be so eager, they may try to pull too hard, straining the leash. Informed owners avoid this behavior by leaving a bit of slack when walking.
Mixed Signals
Be certain not to give the dog mixed signals in the aftermath of bad behavior. If you’re amused and it shows when they are acting improperly, they’ll do it again. Sending these mixed signals will undo some of the time that you have already invested in training, making things even harder on you. You must stay consistent, no matter how cute the misbehavior is.
If you catch your puppy chewing on something he isn’t suppose to be chewing, stop him immediately. Redirecting your puppy towards a chew toy teaches him what is appropriate to chew on. This can prevent further damage to your possessions.
Don’t let a dog drag you around. You are the one leading him. Make use of a quality training collar as well as a short leash when you start training, be sure you keep the dog at a heel position as you walk and always enter doorways or gates ahead of the dog. The dog should always remember that you’re the captain!
Always take safety precautions when training your dog. Do not assume you are exempt from your dog trying to bite you. An untrained dog may feel that he/she is actually the leader of his/her pack. Understanding alpha behavior will help you forge the proper relationship with your dog. Even a nice dog might bite if it is confused by your movements.
Use good treats that are irresistible to your dog. You may even opt to give them they would not usually have, such as hotdogs or ice cream.
Keep your dog’s yearly check-up appointments. If your dog is going through a tough time with training or seems to be regressing, ensure his health is good. Dogs are great at hiding discomfort and pain. Frequently, the only way you will know that a health problem exists is when you observe changes in behavior. For instance, aggression can be caused by pain, and a sudden increase in bathrooming accidents can be a sign of a UTI.
As you can now see, dog training is a must if you want a well-behaved dog. Apply what you’ve learned here, and you’ll be an expert dog trainer in no time.