How To Train Your Dog Effectively

Posted on by

Excessive barking, growling, rowdy behavior, and other negative traits that a dog may have can all be trained out of a dog. If those behaviors can not be completely unlearned, they can be diminished with the information this article provides. A dog can be turned into the ideal pet with the right training.

TIP! Try to view things from your dog’s perspective. Things that seem simple to you may not be as simple to your dog if he is having a hard time learning them.

When potty training your pup, remember that whatever he eats must come out. To ensure that your dog’s bowel movements remain regular, feed him or her some high-quality food a minimum of twice per day during the same times daily. Doing so helps you to learn your puppy’s schedule.

Your training sessions should be very short. By keeping the sessions short you will be able to hold your dog’s attention. If you want to engage in additional training, allow the dog to have a break in order to get some exercise.

TIP! Dogs have tunnel vision and will focus on one thing to the exclusion of all else. After you do this enough times, it will become easier for you to get your dog’s attention.

Primary reinforcement is a proven principle that is useful in training dogs. In this method the reward you use is something it is natural for your dog to want. Use things such as treats or petting your dog to reinforce good behavior. This teaches your dog something that they desire.

Use the same hand signal or voice command to get your dog’s attention. Your commands should always begin with your dog’s name. This gets his attention, then you can follow through with the command. Your dog will notice their name and they will see that you want their attention.

TIP! Never chain two dogs too close to each other. It is just too easy for dogs in such a situation to tangle their leads together, and this can lead to serious injuries for both of them.

The tone of your voice is an important part of successfully disciplining your dog. Dogs are in tune with human emotions and pick much of that up from your voice. Back up your discipline with a stern, but not angry, tone of voice to communicate your displeasure.

Accidents will happen sometimes when you house train your pet. Get rid of accidents immediately to improve training efficiency. Animals are inclined to eliminate repeatedly in spots where they can smell urine or feces, and carpets require special care. A pet shop in your area will carry products specifically for this problem.

TIP! Your dog must respect you in order for training to work. The dog will have little respect for you and it won’t obey if you do not show that you are the one in charge.

It is vital to keep some slack in the leash when you are trying to train a dog. This gives your dog the option to explore and walk around freely. Eager dogs will begin to put some strain on their leashes. A smart owner discourages behavior such as this, and encourages the dog to walk without pulling.

Leash training starts with putting a collar on your puppy while you play. When he is comfortable in the collar, he’ll be ready to learn how to walk on a leash, too.

TIP! Approach an unfamiliar dog slowly, offering only the backside of your hand for his inspection. This gives a dog a chance to become familiar with your personal scent, which engenders trust.

Consistency is the key to canine training. Have a strict list of command words that you always use, and make sure that anybody that associates with your dog knows the command words as well. Behavior should be rewarded or not depending on the affect that is being sought. When the people around the dog use different commands and responses, he may become confused and training could suffer.

Older Dogs

TIP! Use primary reinforcement to train your dog. Primary reinforcement uses something that is inherent for the dog to love as a reward for good behavior.

Understand limitations of older dogs. It’s impossible to perfectly train older dogs because of the quirks already ingrained into them. If you decide to take on an older dog, be aware that they are used to routines and will have certain habits. Although you may be able to teach an older dog new habits, there may be some habits that cannot be changed.

Never allow the dog to pull you around. You are the one leading him. Use a short leash and keep your dog close to your side, pulling it back when it begins to lead and telling it to heel. Keep in mind that you are in charge!

TIP! When you begin training your puppy, create a bond with him by first teaching him his name. Repeat his name regularly, so he will learn to come to you when he hears it.

Unless breeding is in your dog’s future, make sure he or she is spayed or neutered before six months of age. After the dog is neutered or spayed, you should begin obedience classes with your dog. You don’t want hormones to interfere with the learning process. It will also give your pet an extended and healthier life.

When starting out with training, be aware that untrained dogs may bite their owner. It is important that you establish to your dog that you are leader of the pack. Understanding what alpha behavior you need to show your dog will help your dog understand you are the leader. If your dog doesn’t realize this fact, then even the most calm of dogs might bite you.

TIP! Acclimate your dog to the source that triggers his barking fits. It may be as simple as a sound or being in close proximity to other animals.

By now, every dog owner should be aware of how easy canine training can really be. By combining a proper mindset and a good base of knowledge, any dog can become well trained. Training can actually make your dog happier and healthier.