A cute little puppy could steal a person’s heart. If you are contemplating getting one or if you already have one, that is great. Proper training of pets is the best way to build strong relationships with them. When your pet knows what is expected and behaves as such, it is much easier for you to accept him and show your love. Keep reading for great tips to help you and your dog have an excellent relationship.
Dogs will focus on something and ignore all else unless something breaks that attention. Your dog can learn to focus less and less, except for your commands, by using repetition.
Training is an ongoing process – your dog needs to be constantly reminded of the rules! Do not assume that your dog will remember his training all his life. You can encourage your dog to adopt good habits. Dogs, much like kids, do best when they have limits and rules.
Don’t bother with shock collars. They almost never work as advertised and they are expensive to boot. They aren’t engaging in positive reinforcement either. These tools often do more harm than good.
Give your dog a regular elimination and feeding schedule, so you can house train them. This will help you better understand when your dog needs to go outside, so he doesn’t go on the carpet and ruin it. A schedule is a great way to train a dog how to hold in their needs till they can go out.
When your pet hears you speak the word ‘no’, your dog must understand that a response is not expected. When canine training, you’ll have to find a way to give positive reinforcement. When you tell your dog “no” during training, he has no idea what you want him to do instead of the behavior you reprimand. All dogs are different and will respond to different training.
Training has to be consistent. If more than one member of your family is training your dog, be sure all people use the same commands, rewards and discipline. The dog is sure to have a simpler time learning, as long as he is asked to obey just one group of commands and is given consistent responses.
Take extra care with the tone you use whenever you discipline your dog. Dogs can pick up how you are feeling. An adequate stern tone can help reinforce their discipline.
An effective way to train your dog is to use different voice tones for different purposes. Use a clearly defined tone for different commands, encouragement or directives. This makes it easier for the dog to link your expectations with different behaviors. Commands call for firmness; corrections need a louder volume and praise should be in your natural tone.
Most cases associated to dog bites result from fear. This occurs whenever dogs feel trapped, threatened, and frightened. Using fear tactics are never a smart way to train a dog. Your frustrated dog may bite you. He wants to make you happy; he sees you as his leader.
To be successful with dog training, it is important that you are consistent in both the amount of time you provide and the schedule you follow. It takes consistency and repetition for dogs to learn. The act of spending time with your pet dog daily can convince them that you are reliable and consistent. Those two qualities are ‘leader of the pack’ qualities!
Spay or neuter your dog at six months. Obedience training should be put off until this is done. A spayed or neutered dog is a better pet and a more attentive obedience student. You and your pet will enjoy a longer and happier life together.
You can entice your pet to sit on his haunches by waving a treat before his nose as he stands. Pass that treat over their head so that your hand moves behind them. He will look upwards as he follows your hand. Dogs are likely to sit when doing this.
Keep tempting items out of reach while you are teaching your dog to stop chewing and chomping on everything he can sink his teeth into. 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.
Animal Behavior
If you are considering working with an animal behavior specialist, make sure you interview them and check out their reputation. These professionals follow different theories about animal behavior. When you interview one, ask about his theories and the actual techniques used. Be sure these are not ones you wouldn’t want used on your dog!
Condition your puppy early on so that he is used to being examined by the vet. Give your pet lots of attention and positive reinforcement during this time. Move your hands over his paws and through his teeth as a way to get him better prepared for the vet’s examinations. Ask your friends to help out, as well.
If you’re going to allow your dog to go to the bathroom indoors, make a special area that they’re comfortable with. Get some potty pads placed in that area, and over time remove one after another until there is one left. This will help train the dog to go in that one specific locale.
If you are leaving your house for any reason, make sure to let your dog out or take him for a walk before you leave. You will be able to get the dog really tired out, which will help with the anxiety he experiences when you leave.
It is hoped you have discovered a few tips to improve your relationship with your pet. Take what you need and leave the rest. If you are not already attached to your dog, you soon will be. To have a successful relationship with your dog, you must provide good training. Train your pet well. Congratulations on becoming a pet owner.