Many dog owners erroneously assume that their dogs will benefit from a flexible environment free of rules. Nothing could be further from the truth. All dogs should have fun, but with the guidance and encouragement of their owners. A regular training routine can help build a proper relationship between you and your dog. Your dog’s anxiety can be replaced with confidence with just a little work! This article has tips to build a solid training routine for your pet.
Be a leader first and a “friend” second. From the moment you bring your dog home or begin to train him, you must constantly be leading. Attitude is your key to successful dominance and alpha behavior. Giving in to the playful side of your pet degrades the role you should be creating for your dog.
Use the ‘shake-can’ method of training. Put a few coins in an empty soda can and seal it. When your dog misbehaves, shake the can once. It will startle the dog, and halt his behavior. Once you do this a few times, your dog will start to realize that his behavior is unacceptable. Only shake the can once, if you do it multiple times your dog will desensitize.
To stop your dog from jumping up on you, push him back firmly with your knee and tell him “NO” in a firm and commanding voice. As soon as his feet are on the floor, pet him with your hands and praise him for being a good dog with his feet on the floor.
Switch your rewards if you find that your dog no longer works as hard for them. Dogs can get bored with their treats just like humans do. Picking a fragrant reward or trying a reinforcement that is not food-based might just might help cure your dog of his reluctance!
Make sure you dog proof your home to reduce chewing or destructive behavior while you are away. Young dogs or bored dogs may chew when left alone just to have something to do. Take the time to close interior doors and put away items dogs like to chew before you leave to limit the opportunities for chewing while you are gone.
When you start training your dog, make sure that you aren’t so focused on making them a good dog that you just ignore their basic needs in the process. They still require basic care like food, water, a place to sleep, and a place to go to the bathroom. They are still your responsibility.
When training your dog to fetch a ball, show him you are the leader by making him bring the ball to you at all times. If your dog drops the ball nearby and you walk to pick the ball up, your dog assumes he is the leader. Teaching the dog that he must bring the ball to you each time helps your dog to understand what is wanted of him at all times with the ball.
It’s easy to see how a few lifestyle changes can truly benefit your canine friend for years to come. Your dog needs rules, boundaries and guidance to make the right choices, and he depends on you to set him up for success. Your job as a pet owner is to always make sure your pet is comfortable. A solid training routine to build his confidence is the first step to behavioral success.
Author: Connie E. Velazco of hawaiian fabric
People say that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. Hopefully we can help you prove them otherwise with the tips and tricks in this article. All of the methods have been hand picked for your older dog that you either have never trained, never trained well, or obtained from someone else.
Properly training your dog can be a task if you aren’t sure which steps to take. Some people find it difficult to do on their own. With the tips provided below you will be on your way to training your dog by yourself and without the costly expense of hiring someone else.