If you have a natural-born obedient dog, then consider yourself lucky. Unfortunately, the majority of dogs require some form of training. This may be needed to prevent them from destroying your home or jumping on strangers. Use the following advice and you will end up with a joyful, well behaved dog.
Make sure your dog is up and active often. Dogs can become bored very easily. If you do not have the full attention of your dog, they will be difficult to train. If you have a happy, exercised dog, they will listen better. Walk or run your dog frequently.
You can show your dog how to do tricks, get some treats. Begin by getting the dog to lay down. Then hold one treat near his head and near the floor. Pull the treat over the dog until your hand is on the other side. He should then roll over while following the treat. Say “roll over” as he performs the action so that he’ll learn the command. Be patient while he masters this trick. He will be a star once he does!
As your dog gets better with training, you can start to give him or her more freedom. The key to a satisfying life for your dog is a balance of freedom and obedience. Just be careful that you don’t give your dog too much freedom, as this can cause negative behavior.
You will be able to allow your dog to do more as it learns. This balance between obedience and freedom will provide your dog with a very satisfying life. Don’t be too lenient all of the sudden though, as this can have a negative effect.
Verbal cues are very important to make sure that your dog is under your command. “yes” is a great bridge word between the dogs positive accomplishment and the reward they receive.
Try a phrase that you will stick with to train your puppy when you are house breaking him or her. Whenever you take your pet outside to use the bathroom, choose a phrase, like “go potty”, so he remembers what he is there to do.
This advice is applicable for any age or obedience level. Just make sure you remain patient when training your dog. With any luck, the dog and you will be much happier than you have ever been.
