Friday, April 27, 2012

Expert Techniques For Training Your Dog

By Edwin Fowler


Don't ever ignore good behavior from your dog. If they do something good, even if you didn't ask them to do it, make sure that you reward them for it in some way. If you start to ignore them when they have done something desirable, then they will see no reason to keep doing it.

When you are training your dog and establishing your leadership role, do not be adverse to letting the dog lick you on the face. This is common behavior in dogs when dealing with the Alpha in the pack. Do not discourage this behavior as it can confuse the animal and confuse your role because you do not show proper response to this servile behavior.

Listening to your dog is one of the most important steps of training your dog. If your dog is uncomfortable or scared, then you aren't going to get the result that you are looking for. Respect their needs and the process will go a lot smoother.

The diet you are feeding your dog needs to match their needs and activity level. The diet that is right for a working dog is a lot different from that of a dog that lounges around the house all day. Talk with your vet regarding what is right for your pup and don't forget their needs will change as they age.

When you first get your puppy don't expect him to learn a large number of commands in a short amount of time. Your puppy needs time to acclimate to his new environment. During this time, it is possible to teach him two or three simple commands. Do not move on to other commands until your puppy has mastered these.

Training a dog is easier if the pet is neutered or spayed. Unless you are breeding the animal, taking the hormones out of the equation will greatly calm your pet. Without the constant rush of hormones, a dog is much more docile and receptive to a leader. This will also help control the pet population which is a win-win situation.

Enforce the commands that you give your dog. Do not let up until they complete the task you have asked them to do. If you are not serious about making them do what you have commanded, then they will learn that they don't have to do it. Follow through is key to training.

Throughout your dog's training program, continue to play with them as much as possible. Interacting through games and activities is one way to bond with your pet and relieve stress. Dogs respond much better to people they trust, so go out and throw a ball, play tug of war or just rub their belly.




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