Free Dog Training Tips And Videos

How To Get Started With Dog Training

There’s nothing more irritating than a naughty boisterous dog. Just like a disobedient, naughty child, a badly behaved dog can drive you round the bend. If you have recently acquired a new puppy, you really need to know about the basics of dog training.

Firstly, there’s absolutely no truth to the myth that certain dogs cannot be trained. While it may be more difficult to train some dogs, it can be done. And of course some dogs are easier to train. It all comes down to the ability of the trainer and his or her communication skills.

A trained dog is a happy dog. Dogs are programmed to take commands. This comes from their inherent instinct to obey the ‘alpha’ figure when they live in packs. Your dog must be taught that you are in this role. A well trained dog is also more secure, less stressed, and he or she will form a close bond with you.

Teaching your dog his or her name is the first thing to do. This will enable you to get a response from the dog every time you call its name. This forms the basis to all other dog training lessons.

The first important command is ‘come’. Hold a small treat near the nose and firmly call its name, for example ‘Fluffy, come!’ The puppy will immediately come forward to get the treat. Continue the process by stepping a bit further back each time. When the dog responds and comes to you, lavish it with lots of praise and affection.

You can apply the same principle with the ’sit’ and ’stay’ commands. Keep your voice firm at all times so the dog learns the different tones to your voice. They quickly realize when your voice is playful or when it is serious. The praise factor is critical because essentially all a dog wants is to please its master.

Don’t get too carried away with treats. They are necessary tools in the early phases of training, but too many treats may cause the dog to obey your commands just because there’s a treat to follow. The dog will learn that if you are obeyed, his or her reward is praise and love. Never give your dog treats outside of training sessions. This can cause confusion.

If you want to compete at dog shows and other competitions, it’s advisable for you and your dog to attend a professional dog training course. You will both learn the relevant behavior requirements and other etiquette rules. There’s plenty of helpful websites about such courses.

Learn more about dog obedience classes in NJ.

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