Top 5 Dog Training Tips
When it comes to dog training, your approach will dictate your results. Once you have the right mindset, it is possible to train your dog to become the loving and obedient pet you’ve always wanted. Keep reading to learn the top 5 dog training tips.
Dog training without pre-conceived goals will ultimately lead to failure. Additionally, these goals need to be realistic, so don’t expect your dog to do everything you ask within a few days. While mastering the ‘sit’ command in this timeframe is achievable, asking your dog to jump through fiery hoops is not!
It is not just humans that respond well to positive reinforcement! Dog training success depends upon punishing bad behavior and rewarding your pet when he does something right. The simple reasoning behind this is that your dog will continue acting in the correct manner when he begins to realize that it leads to a treat and will stop indulging in bad behavior when he sees that it yields a punishment. However, one slight variation from the classic technique is to avoid punishment altogether as this will simply drive a wedge between you and your dog. Reserving treats for good behavior is the best way around this issue.
As dogs have the pack mentality, they will always look for a leader to guide them. This means it is necessary for you to become the boss or ‘pack leader’ to establish control over the dog’s behavior. One quick and easy way to establish this control is to provide your dog with food only after you have eaten. Another good idea is to create a feeding schedule and stick as rigidly to it as possible.
Timing is incredibly important when it comes to dog training and can make all the difference. For instance, the moment you see your dog sizing up a place to relieve himself, you need to shout a firm ‘NO’ command before bringing him to the designated area. Allowing him to make a mess before scolding him costs you the opportunity to help him understand that he is not allowed do his business in that area. As soon as he obeys a command or exhibits good behavior, you need to treat or praise him.
You will achieve nothing by shouting at your dog when he inevitably makes errors. Each command will take time to learn and you need to use the same hand signals and words each time. This diet of patience and consistency will eventually yield excellent results from your dog training.
The secrets to successful dog training are timing, patience, positive reinforcement, leadership, and realism. Combine these five things and you’re guaranteed to be happy with the end result.
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