There are multiple ways to train dogs though not all of them are right. Some people make use of techniques that suppress their natural instincts and repress the behaviours they want to change.
That approach can lead to inhumane techniques not every dog (or dog owner) can endure. We have gathered some tips on the best way to train a dog. Use them to train the dog yourself, and make sure your trainer uses these techniques instead of other not so friendly options.
Dog obedience is key to training your dog to do ANYTHING! As you think of how to train a dog, focus on dog obedience initially and then begin to proactively teach your dog what behaviour is acceptable and what isn’t.
Focus on reinforcing the behaviour you want to get.
To concentrate on the good things is the best way to train a dog. This requires staying on the positive side of the coin. Some people are not prone to seeing the good things in life, so it will be harder for them to train their pets. If you are part of this group, start with some self-training. Look for the positive things in life. Then, try to put everything in positive terms.
Once you master being positive, take the same approach to your pet. Observe his behaviour and praise anything you want him to do. For example, instead of punishing your dog when he pees inside the house, praise him when he does it at the right spot. That will be much more efficient. As you use positive reinforcement, you will create a stronger bond with your pet too.
Make use of the natural dog instinct.
When you are training your dog, be very expressive! Show your dog when you are happy with him, let your joy be visible. Make extensive use of the natural will of dogs to please you. They will adapt smoothly to your style if you are able to show when you are pleased.
Another good tip is to act as the pack leader. Dogs are social animals that live in packs. The best way to train a dog is to appear as the leader. They will follow your orders instinctively. To do so, you must be clear, direct, and consistent. Avoid mixed signals since they will just confuse your pet. Giving sharp commands is key to make them understand you are the leader.
Keep consistent Routines
Your dog will be easily trained if you stay consistent with your routines with him. For example, if you are teaching him good toilet habits, it is imperative to have regular mealtimes then make a habit of visiting the poop spot after eating. Going there after a nap and early in the morning is also recommended.
1Things to avoid when training.
These are not the best ways to train a dog. Try to avoid these practices as you teach your pet the right habits.
- Don’t use physical punishments that hurt your pet.
- Avoid using anything that causes real pain, like sound or electroshock devices.
- Giving him too many treats. You will not be seriously taken if you overpraise your dog.
We do not recommend automatic devices like training collars. They may be effective, but they will not enhance the bond between you and your pet.
Also, remember that while you may initially train your puppy when he’s just arrived, you never really stop. Do not stop training your dog. It is all about creating and maintaining good habits. If you are not consistent at expecting your dog to obey and following through when he doesn’t ; he will invariably slack off in his good habits. Never overlook misconduct and correct it as early as possible.
It is also important that you practice continuously. Even if you are done with the initial training, make extensive use of the language you just taught to your dog. That way he will remember, and you will too!
Consistency during dog training is key! If you need motivation and help solidifying your training goals, learn from The Online Dog Trainer and his no fail approach to becoming a pack leader. Your Dog will choose to obey you when they know you are their pack leader; so becoming an effective pack leader is crucial to dog training success.
Dog Health
Treats are used to reinforce positive behaviours as the best way to train a dog. When you choose a treat to praise your dog during training, make it a healthy one. Some tasty options on the market will also add nutritional value to your pet.
Even some human food from the fridge can be a good treat. For example, some jam, boiled chicken, or cheese. If you prepare biscuits as treats, avoid using sugar or other ingredients that not dog-friendly. Some of the things you must not give your dog are grapes, raisins, chocolate, onion and garlic.
When you are engaged in training, beware of how many treats you are giving to your dog each session. You might need to reduce the daily amount of regular food you give your dog during intensive training sessions. Take a calorie-intake approach, and make it even on training days. That way you will not end up with an overweight dog after a training period.
Fun / Interesting Dog Facts
Did you know that the first living astronaut was a dog? Her name was Laika, and it was sent in a Russian mission. She traveled in 1957 inside the Sputnik. While we cannot yet go to the outer space, Laika had the chance to live the experience 60 years ago!
