Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Basic Dog Training Advice For New Animal Trainers

By Victor Joseph


Dog training advice is more widely available than ever before, as professional trainers have cashed in on the desire of pet owners everywhere to have better trained canine companions. While this information can be helpful for most would-be trainers as they device an instructional program that fits their pet's needs, there is also some simple principles that can expedite their efforts.

The nature of the beast

The canine mind is hardwired to get along with others in its pack. Regardless of whether this cooperation is required for tracking down a meal or finding a playfellow, dogs desire a peaceful social environment above all other concerns. Their minds are really that easy to understand.

That tendency can also form the backbone of any educational program for the animal. Dogs are one of the few species of animals that focus their attention on begin accepted by their community. Within any relationship with a human, the pet's main goal is to ensure that he receives positive feedback from his master.

Be the alpha

This is only true, however, when the pet recognizes the human as being the leader of the pack. Being a leader helps the pet to understand its own role within the family, and enables it to feel comfortable within its environment. Where rules and guidance are lacking, even the best dogs can become socially-maladjusted.

Avoid inconsistency

When the animal is being trained, it should always know what you want it to do. That requires a consistent approach to every aspect of the teaching program. Use a recognizable series of commands, and offer a system of rewards that the pet can understand. Avoid negative reinforcement where possible, as punishment can dramatically impact the pet's ability to trust its owner.

Use encouragement and praise

Dogs cannot be properly trained in a negative environment. Yelling, cursing, and violent physical outbursts are all things that must be avoided. Remember, the animal desires nothing more than to be praised for meeting expectation. Punishment is not required when a trainer wishes to show displeasure. All any trainer really needs to do is withhold a reward, and the animal will eventually understand what it is doing wrong.

Yes, most of this guidance seems to be obvious, but few people seem to utilize these principles properly in their canine educational programs. For those trainers who remember these essential truths, the ultimate goal of having a well-trained pet is always easier to reach when this simple dog training advice is used.




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