Training a new dog can be discouraging at first. But if you implement the advice provided here, you will find out how to have a better relationship with your dog as well as a better understanding of its needs and yours.
You will be able to allow your dog to do more as it learns. The key to a satisfying life for your dog is a balance of freedom and obedience. Don’t give your dog too much free reign though.
Anytime your dog does something good, make sure you reward him. The reward is a great way to teach your dog that he has performed a task that you wanted him to do. Doing so leaves no question as to whether a behavior is considered acceptable or strictly forbidden.
Make sure food and outside time are scheduled to help break your dog into being an inside dog. Then you will be aware when your dog needs to go outside to use the bathroom. Having a set schedule will teach your dog how to wait until he can go outside for the next potty break.
Begin the training with an easy to learn behavior. Not only will you achieve gratification due to your success, but your dog will know what acceptable behavior is. This helps you get better results.
“Leave it” is a very important command that teaches your dog to drop whatever it is holding. This should be the first command you teach. This simple command will get them to stop chewing on household items or furniture, and can keep them away from dirty or potentially dangerous items outside the home.
When you are training your dog, be mindful of the time spent in one session. If you try to focus for a long period of time on one command, your dog will show signs of boredom and begin to get antsy. Ten minutes is about the length of time a dog can handle.
When a dog jumps up on you, grab its paws with your hand and lightly squeeze to let them know that it is unacceptable behavior. While this will not seriously hurt the animal, it is certainly unpleasant and therefore makes a powerful statement. After a while, they will stop jumping on people because they will associate it with the uncomfortable feeling.
Call for your dog the same way every time. First, say his name, then the command. His name will catch his attention and then he’ll know you’re speaking to him. Dogs listen for their name because they know it means you will say something else.
If you say ‘no’, your dog should understand that it does not need a response. Instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage positive behaviors and gloss past the results that are not what you want. Telling them “no” does not help them know how to react to you. Every dog and every situation is different. This means that their training must be tailored accordingly.
Start by teaching your puppy his name. Repeat his name regularly, so he will learn to come to you when he hears it. This is the first set of commands you should teach your new puppy. It’s important that the time spent with your puppy is quality time. Spend your time playing with your puppy. This way he will get to know you quicker and will begin to trust you faster. This way, you will find future training to be infinitely easier.
If you want to be a good trainer, then you have to be firm and consistent. Try not to yell though, as negative reinforcement does not work. This way, you can have a great relationship with the dog.
To prevent barking, teach your dog simple methods to quit them. Use your no-bark command and follow with a treat only when the dog is quiet. You could give your dog treats. Once you have diligently used this training method, your dog starts to link the tasty treat with the desired behavior and its corresponding command.
Now that you have this knowledge, you can shape your dog into a calm, obedient animal that will delight your entire family. You will notice a difference in your dog’s behavior as soon as you begin using these strategies.