Essential dog training techniques. Getting started with dog training can be a rewarding journey. Learn from expert vets about the right mindset, consistency, and essential techniques for a well-behaved canine companion. Explore two popular training approaches, understand the role of rewards, and discover critical tips for successful training.
Let’s get this out of the way first: There are many different ways to train your dog. But how do you know where to start with so many methods on offer? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll introduce you to two of the most popular types of training. We’ll also tell you some standard terms and even offer bonus tips.
Dog training techniques, Get Into the Right Mindset.
Sadly, some of the worst behaviour seen in dogs is their owners not training them correctly. After all, having the time, money, and space to own a dog doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be ready to teach them, either.
So, before we go any further, it’s crucial to understand that you are the key to your dog’s behaviour. It’s going to take plenty of commitment and learning. But trust us, it’ll be worth it. By dedicating yourself to a training regime with your dog, you’ll discover new ways to enjoy pet ownership and forge a stronger bond with your faithful friend.
Dog Training. Consistency is the Key
Consistency is essential in dog training. All too often, owners will give mixed signals to their pets, which makes learning and behaviour improvement difficult. Take jumping up on the sofa, for example. Many owners will tell their dogs off for climbing onto the furniture when guests are around. However, if they’re alone with their pet, they’ll let the dog lie on the sofa. So, how does the poor pooch know what’s right or wrong? You must maintain consistency in your training style with your dog.
Age is Just a Number
There’s a common misconception that only puppies are receptive to training. Well, we’ve got news for you: grown-up dogs make great students, too! Of course, ironing out long-term unwanted behaviour with an older dog might take a little longer. But with the proper training and a committed teacher, one can train canine friends of all ages. And, as a bonus, the effort taken up by movement will distract them from naughty stuff, such as chewing furniture and pinching food.
The Main Types of Training
There are many different training methods, but we can broadly categorise them as traditional or modern. Conventional training methods discourage unwanted behaviour and correct the dog when it gets wrong.
Modern training relies on making it easy for your dog to get it ‘right’ and timing rewards accurately to encourage your desired behaviour.
How Rewards Work in Training
Rewards are a perfect way to show your dog they’ve done something right. It could be a tasty treat or playtime with a favourite toy – the important thing is that it makes your dog happy! Some dogs get bored sooner than others, so try to vary the rewards and keep the most valuable ones for the best efforts your dog offers.
Finally, remember that the closer in time two events happen, the stronger the association your dog will make between them. Ideally, try to give your verbal, food or toy reward within half a second of seeing the correct behaviour for the best results! A clicker can be especially helpful here because you can ‘click’ instantly if you know your desired behaviour.
What we mean by punishment
In dog training, using punishment to make a dog less likely to repeat a behaviour means either withholding a reward (negative punishment) or carrying out an unpleasant action, such as giving a tug on the dog’s lead (this is called positive punishment).
In modern training, there is rarely, if ever, any call to use positive punishment with your dog.
Lead Training
Although you might think that leadership training should take place on a walk, it’s best to begin somewhere quiet and calm – your living room or back garden is perfect. Start by teaching your dog to sit and stand comfortably at your side. Then, remember to reward them regularly, giving your dog a treat whenever they don’t pull.
Slowly build up to taking steps around the room or garden, standing still every time pulling occurs; practise in short, regular sessions – five minutes twice a day is fine for beginners. Try walking in a quiet public space once you are both comfortable at home. Then, keep those treats coming- and keep at it!
What are the five golden rules of dog training?
Getting started with dog training can be a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that it’s a process that takes time and patience. However, with a little effort, you can teach your dog basic commands and behaviours that will make your life together much more effortless.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start early. The earlier you start training your dog, the easier it will be. Puppies are like sponges, and they’re eager to learn.
- Be consistent. Dogs learn best when they know what’s expected of them. So be compatible with your commands and rewards; your dog will eventually learn what you want.
- Use positive reinforcement. Dogs are motivated by rewards, so positive reinforcement should be used to encourage good behaviour. This could mean giving your dog a treat, a toy, or praise.
- Be patient. Training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t get it right away. Just keep practising; eventually, they’ll get the hang of it.
Here are some basic commands that you can teach your dog:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Down
- Heel
You can move on to more advanced training once your dog has mastered these basic commands. Many resources are available to help you train your dog, including books, websites, and dog trainers.
You can train your dog to be a well-behaved family member with a little effort. Remember to be patient and consistent, and use positive reinforcement, and you’ll be on your way to a happy and harmonious relationship with your furry friend.
Here are some additional tips for getting started with dog training:
- Choose a quiet place to train your dog where there are no distractions.
- Start with simple commands and gradually work up to more complex ones.
- Be patient and consistent with your training.
- Finally, use positive reinforcement to reward your dog for good behaviour.
- Don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t get it right away. Just keep practising; eventually, they’ll get the hang of it.
With time and effort, you can train your dog to be a well-behaved family member.
Thank you for reading the article to the end. Your reading contribution was significant to us.
Affiliate Disclosure: The Frenchie Breed website may receive a small commission from the proceeds of any product(s) sold through affiliate and direct partner links at no cost to you.
Follow Frenchie Breed on Google News
Post a Comment