A well-trained canine makes a better companion. Obedience classes might help your dog learn to adopt the behaviors you expect from him. He’ll be able to adapt more easily to his environment within your home as well as interact more socially with your family and friends. A well-trained dog is a joy to be around.
It’s impossible to overstate the value of enrolling your pooch into obedience classes that are taught by a professional trainer. Not only will that person use effective methods that yield long-term benefits, but your canine will also have a chance to interact with other pets and their owners.
That said, there’s a lot you can do at home. Below, we’ll provide three dog training basics that you can use to help your canine become a well-adjusted member of your family.
Have Fun
First, keep your sessions short - no more than 15 minutes. Otherwise, your canine may lose interest and begin responding poorly to your commands (frustrating you in the process). The key is to create a training environment that is enjoyable for both of you. If you don’t feel like participating, wait until you do. Also, to help motivate your dog for future sessions, end every session by giving him an easy command and then provide him with dog treats when he responds correctly.
Eliminate Negative Reinforcement Methods
Owners have a tendency to react negatively when their canines fail to respond to their commands. For example, they might strike or yell at them. It’s important to realize that positive reinforcement methods are far more effective when you train your pooch. Remember, he wants to please you. If he responds to your commands favorable, reward him with a treat. If he doesn’t, withhold the dog treats. He will get the message and modify his behavior accordingly.
Teach The Long Stay
Canines get antsy, especially if you’re nearby. Sitting can prove to be a large obstacle. Your pooch may have no trouble sitting for 10 or 15 seconds when you command him to do so. However, most dogs will fail to sit for longer periods. This is an important lesson to teach your dog to instill self-control.
You’ll need to train him by starting with a short period of time and gradually extending it as he succeeds. For example, start with 20 seconds and give him a treat when he succeeds. Once he has done so 3 or 4 times, extend the time to 25 seconds. Continue doing this until your pooch can sit still with you nearby for 60 seconds. It might also help to teach specific words (like “easy”) that you can say to calm him down.
There are few experiences more rewarding than owning a well-trained dog. While professional training is important, you can use the above tips at home to help your pooch become a better companion.
