Having a dog is a lot of fun, but for many people, especially new owners, dog training can be a headache. After all, every dog is a living, breathing creature with a mind of its own. Teaching the same dog to behave and listen to his or her owner is not easy by any standard, and sometimes people might think that it is downright impossible. This is the reason why so many dogs grow up and behave badly, often frustrating their owners and people around them. But, there are some simple and effective ways on how any dog or puppy training can be significantly improved. These methods may help dogs not only behave as a trained pet but also allow owners to have a little extra time for themselves, not having to worry about training their dog. Here are 7 essential tips for training dogs that everyone should start using right now.
Start Dog Training Early
It is never too early to start dog training. Unlike human babies, dogs are genetically disposed to start taking in knowledge right away, as soon as they start using their own eyes to their full extent. This means that even puppies should be corrected in their behavior and slowly be taught what is expected of them. This does not mean that a puppy should be forced or manipulated in a way that might scare or frighten them. Having this in mind, we can start our training routine immediately once our puppy has been brought home.
Finding a Command Word
A command word is a term used in dog training that represents a single short word which is said by the dog owner once the pet has broken some rule. The word should be said in a firm manner, loudly and clearly, so that the dog knows he or she made a mistake. The command word can be any term out there. However, most people say commands like, “stop”, “order” or even “down”. Any word can be set as a command, but once that word is chosen, the owner should stick to it. By using command words, dogs can be easily stopped from doing something not allowed, by simply using a firm tone of voice.
Be Diligent When Training Your Dog
Dog training is about being diligent more than anything else. This means that a dog needs to be corrected every time he or she does something that is not desirable. Even though this sounds simple enough, in reality, dog owners are also regular people who are sometimes tired, irritated or simply do not want to bother with their dog; even when they see their dog breaking some rules. This negative behavior on the owner’s side will not allow the training to be completed in a proper manner. Having a trained dog means being involved in the process every day, all day, which might not be easy, but when done correctly it produces results.
The Need for Consistent Pet Training Rules
Dog owners have to stick to a consistent set of rules during the process of dog training. This is especially necessary for any person, couple or family that owns and trains a dog. For example, if each member of a family has its own rules for the dog, there is a big chance that the pet will only end up being confused about what is expected from him or her. This is the reason why consistency is a huge ally for any dog owner. If a determined and consistent approach is utilized on a regular basis, the dog will gradually develop a sense of acceptable and unacceptable behavior, which will make its training a lot easier.
Avoiding Physical Punishment
It might seem that physical punishment brings about results when it comes to dog training, but experience and modern science both prove this notion wrong. Instead of teaching the dog to behave, physical punishment only teaches your pet to be subservient when the same person is around. However, when the same dog is left on his own, he or she will most likely lash out at other people, animals or even things like furniture or shoes. This is why physical punishment should be avoided at all costs and instead, using techniques such as the simple pull on the walking leash and using repeatedly the same command word will do the trick.
Using Other Dogs as Training Aids
No pet should attain their dog training from humans alone, but from other dogs as well. This includes having an older, already trained dog that could spend time with the non-trained dog. This way, the dog in training will be able to have a role model that will provide him or her with its own experience and upbringing, which is a great way to enforce the lessons the trained dog already incorporated in his or her own behavior. The same dog will also achieve a more sociable personality, which will make it easier for him or her to spend time with other dogs, even with those not familiar with the owner or the family.
With these simple but effective ideas on dog training, anyone can train their dog in a manner that will be long lasting and successful.