There are certain things that every dog owner should know if they expect their dog to grow up to be a well behaved, well adjusted dog. These tips are some basic ideas you should keep in mind so that your dog training can go smoothly and be fun for you and your dog.
- Socialize your dog early. Puppies need to experience new places, noises and people early. Just keep in mind where your puppy is with vaccinations and do not take them to public areas like dog parks or big box dog stores. Do activities that get him used to other animals and his environment. Socializing is training and you don’t want a dog that is frightened of everything and doesn’t play well with other dogs.
- Say your command one time. Repeating your commands conveys to your dog that you didn’t mean what you said the first time and they learn they don’t have to do the command immediately.
- Be patient. Your tone of voice, volume and body language should never convey to your dog that you are beginning to get frustrated or angry. Hold you patience – it will pay off in spades.
- Be Consistent. Consistency is key. Use the same commands when you expect your dog to obey. Changing your command words will be confusing and will sabotage your training.
- Set Boundaries. Every action you allow your dog to get away with may gradually undo what you are trying to teach them. Don’t set your dog up to fail.
- Stay in control of your dog. This means sniffing, jumping, pulling on his leash is not ok when you are walking him. Structure your walk where 2/3 of the walk the dog is beside you and 1/3 of the walk the dog gets to sniff, hike his leg, etc (still on leash) but it’s his 1/3 of the walk.
- Reward your dog for good behavior. This can be anything from treats to an enthusiastic “Good Boy!” this helps them differentiate between doing something you like (your happy tone of voice) to something you don’t like with your (no/off) said in a deeper voice.
- Learn how dogs think. They are not human. If you understand how dogs think, which is not complicated, very black and white, and in the moment, you can help your dog be a better dog.
- Do not be hard on your dog. When correcting an inappropriate behavior also redirect the dog into the appropriate behavior. Teach the dog what to do in place of thier environmental reactions.
- Have fun! Remain calm, enthusiastic and keep training on a positive note. Also keep your training sessions short. No more than 10 minutes per session.
These are just a few things to keep in mind if you want a dog that is happy, obedient and well adjusted. Teach your dog that you control things, be consistent with your training and praise.
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