No matter what the size or breed, every dog has a similar mindset. Understanding how dogs think and communicate is key to successful training. If one does not understand that mindset then they are in luck because they are about to get some insight.
Verbal corrections must be sharp and direct. Never ramble on about the dog’s failures. Just say no and direct them on what it is you desire for them to do. In addition, use an appropriate voice volume when you give commands, so that it grabs the dog’s attention and lets it know that you are serious.
You must be willing to invest the time required for practice if you want your training to be successful. You may need to repeat the same command lesson from 25 to 30 times before your dog learns it. Keep trying, your dog will pick it up.
You need a commanding control if you are starting to train your dog. He needs to know that you are the authority before he will let you train him. Demonstrate your position of authority to your dog by leading the way whenever the two of you are walking.
Don’t waste your money on cruel, ineffective gadgets such as shock collars. They often do not function properly and their cost is rarely justified. They can also discourage good behaviors as they inhibit your dog’s behavior too much. In short, using techniques like this could have negative effects.
Take caution when near an unfamiliar dog and offer them a chance to sniff your hands. This gives the dog the opportunity to recognize your scent and start to trust you. As you become close to one another, fear will be diminished and opportunities to learn together will be increased.
When training your dog, make sure to have fun with him too. The two of you playing together will help build a strong bond, and that will encourage your dog to positively respond to the training. Training can be a fun experience, however, getting some enjoyment for yourself and the dog through play is a good thing.
Your dog needs an hour or more of exercise every day along with any training or bathroom breaks. When your dog is worn out, his behavior will be better. Dogs that exercise are happier and more responsive.
A good way to reduce the level of barking come from your dog, is to immerse them in their barking triggers so that they get used to them. A variety of things can cause this, whether other animals, unknown people or specific sounds. Your dog can learn he doesn’t have to bark.
Call your dogs name when speaking to him to keep him focused. Use it constantly in the first few weeks that you have your dog: your puppy should associate this sound with paying attention to you. Make the name simple and easy for the puppy to recognize.
In order to encourage good behavior during training, praise is critical. Positive reinforcements include treats, smiles and pats on the head. Be careful that you do not inadvertently reward unwanted behavior or your dog will think you want him to repeat it.
Inform yourself on any specific grooming issues with your breed. A lot of dogs won’t need much grooming, while others may need frequent groomings. Grooming is essential to keeping your dog healthy and reduces the chances that he will developing health problems.
Your dog needs to learn what ‘down’ means. You can use it in an emergency, for example. A dog who is well trained to drop on command is a much safer pooch.
If you catch your puppy chewing on something he isn’t suppose to be chewing, stop him immediately. By doing this your puppy will learn which items he can and cannot chew then, when he is unsupervised, he will be less likely to chew your belongings.
When training your dog to fetch a ball, show him you are the leader by making him bring the ball to you at all times. If your dog places the ball someplace else and you make the effort to pick it up, you are showing that your dog is in fact the leader. Instructing the dog to bring the ball to you every time shows him that he must obey you as the leader.
When teaching your dog not to chew on things that are not toys, you should try to facilitate success. Be sure to puppy-proof your house to protect your dog from chewing inappropriate and dangerous items. Some household items can be harmful to your dog if they are chewed upon.
This understanding of how dogs think and process information is vital to training them. When you understand how your dog learns, you can develop a training program specifically tailored to your dog. An individual who has taken the time to learn about their pet is more likely to succeed in his or her training efforts.