Thursday, April 12, 2012

Training Tips #1 - Intro

What's the most important thing to keep in mind when training a dog?
Treats?
Consistency?
Timing?
Nope.
The #1 thing to keep in mind when training your dog (whether it be a puppy or a mature senior) is PATIENCE.

Unfortunately for us, dogs aren't born with the ability to understand English, or whichever language you choose to use. On that note, for basic behavioral issues and commands, the best way to make the dog learn is by incorporating the commands into the everyday routine. Make your dog sit before feeding. Make them sit before going out, etc etc. Later on, I'll go over how to stop jumping, biting, whining, as well as sit, stay, down, and other fun things. Can't forget potty training. Potty training is important. So yes. Remember to be patient. It will pay off in the end. The second most important thing to keep in mind is consistency and timing. Make a set of rules and stick to those rules. Make sure everyone in the household knows those rules too. Make sure everyone that comes over knows those rules.

Have a set hand signal/word for each command. Never punish the dog after the fact. The best way to deal with any unwanted behavior is to catch the dog in the act and reprimand him then. Now, when I say reprimand, I don't mean anything physical. Either make a loud sound by saying "No" or any other word (I have a tendency to say "Hey") or stomp or clap your hands, or you can put rocks in a can and shake that. Another option is using a water bottle set to jet spray. Don't use the mist setting because most dogs will think you're playing. Yep. I think that about covers it for now.

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