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Dog
Training Secrets
By: Hannah Spencer
Every dog and every dog owner has his or her own unique dog training
challenges. Each breed of dog has a different temperament as does each
individual dog. And dog owners are no different. Despite the
differences, there are some basic things in common for training all
dogs.
No matter why you have a dog, he should at least have some very
elementary dog training. No one wants a dog who isn't housebroken, who
runs away or into the street, who won't sit, come or stay when you want
him to. Both you and your dog will be happier with a little common
ground on obedience training.
One of the first things to take into account when dog training is that
dogs are programmed for a world of leaders and followers. You have to
be the leader in your relationship. Signs of a leader are absolute
consistency. Know what you want your dog to do and keep that constant
from day to day and training session to training session. Don't shout.
That is a sign that you have lost control. And keep your dogs attention
focused on you during the entire training session.
Attention is the second important thing to keep in mind for dog
training and one of the hardest to maintain. It has been said that
ninety percent of dog training is getting and keeping his attention.
Dogs are very much like small children and have short attention spans.
Keep training sessions short - 20 minutes is fine, or even a couple of
10 minute sessions. Work with your dog in a quiet environment that is
free of distractions. Talk to your dog in a quiet voice. Use his name
and explain what you want him to do. He may understand no more than,
"Blah blah blah, Toby", but your voice will keep him focused in your
direction.
Experts have found that positive dog training is more effective that a
system of rewards and punishment. A dog who looks forward to training
sessions as fun and full of rewards is a dog who will learn faster and
better. Reward accomplishments with treats or words of praise or pats.
As your dog learns new skills, you can reward him for each step along
the way. If he doesn't respond the way you want, rethink what you are
asking him to do and how you are asking him to do it. What worked as a
dog training method for one dog may not work as well for the next. Your
dog may need to review some more basic dog training lessons before
going on to new lessons. Rather than punishment, a stern NO, blocking a
movement with your hands, or withholding rewards when he doesn't
perform, and remaining consistent are the best ways to encourage your
dog to exhibit the behavior you want. Remember that it is in his nature
(as well as yours) to want to test limits and see how much he can get
away with. Consistency in dog training and rewards are what get
positive results, not punishments.
Dogs are very much like us. They want to follow a leader they respect.
And dog training is just like school. They like to do things that are
fun and make them feel good, where they get rewards for accomplishing
what is asked of them. And they want the same thing their owners want,
a happy and safe relationshi
About the author: Hannah Spencer - This is only the beginning for
training your dog. Learn more Secrets for Dog Training by visiting: http://www.dog-training-for-you.com
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