There are nearly as many dog training methods as there are dog trainers; but, there are some basic elements that all successful dog training methods have in common. Follow these tips when training your canine companion and you’ll be well on the road to having a well trained dog who is a source of great enjoyment and pride. But remember, dog training isn’t instantaneous – it is ongoing. Even when your pooch has acquired a desirable behavior it is still important to reinforce the behavior on a regular basis. Here are 10 of the most important tips to keep in mind when dog training:
1. All successful dog training programs require: patience, persistence, and consistence. This really is number one – most important – first and foremost. 2. Dogs are pack animals - use this to your advantage in your dog training endeavor. Be sure your dog knows you are the Alpha Dog. Encourage your dog to 'give kisses' (lick the back of your hand) - this is his acknowledging you as the leader. Also rub your dog's belly. Exposing his belly to you is a sign of submission. It is extremely important that your dog always remembers that you are his ‘pack leader’; and teaching him this as soon as possible will make your dog training sessions progress much more smoothly. 3. Remember that dogs (like humans) do make mistakes. The important thing is to correct the mistakes WHILE they are occurring – later is too late. 4. Lavishly praise and reward the behaviors you want to establish as you see them occurring. This will lead to a snowballing effect: the more you reward appropriate behaviors the more they will occur – the more opportunity you will have to reward good behavior… 5. Don’t stretch dog training sessions out too long for you or your dog. Ten or fifteen minute sessions are plenty for most pups. And be aware that several short sessions are much more effective than one long marathon session. In fact, long marathon sessions are more likely to discourage you both and make you both want to give up. 6. Make your dog training time fun and positive. This should be a positive bonding experience for you and your pup. 7. Short dog training sessions are best – but sessions should occur frequently. Twice a day would be good – but once a day, every day, should be the absolute minimum. 8. Always end dog training sessions on a positive successful note. If either you or your dog aren’t in the mood for a training session, make the session short and easy that day. Only practice things you know your dog enjoys and will gladly do successfully at those times. Don’t make any session a struggle. Save the more difficult tasks for times when you are both in the proper frame of mind. 9. Reward works better than punishment. Use this knowledge to positively ‘shape’ your dog’s behavior. To do this, begin by rewarding behaviors that come closer and closer to the precise behavior you’re trying to establish. 10. Correct inappropriate behavior from the beginning. Things that might seem cute for a puppy to do are totally unacceptable behavior for a full grown dog. Correct these behaviors from the start with your puppy – before habits form. The longer the behavior occurs the stronger the habit forms – the more difficult it will be to eliminate the behavior. Nip it in the bud!
Practice the above tips when training your dog. Always keep in mind that patience, persistence, and consistence are key. Throw in lavish praise and reward – and you will both be well on your way to success. You can visit: http://www.e-dog-training.com for more FREE helpful tips, information, and FREE canine cuisine recipes too!
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