Training your dog has numerous benefits and you will see a dramatic decrease in behavior problems, as your dog becomes more relaxed and develops better manners for interacting with people. Training your dog will also help to strengthen the relationship you share with your pooch.
One of the most important things to remember when training your dog is that it is a lifelong process. Many owners think that once their pet has the basics down, the training process is over. Dogs, much like people, learn throughout their lives, and consistent training will help them to be well-behaved and friendly.
When giving commands to your dog, never come down to their level. Maintaining eye contact and a fully erect, dominant stance imparts control to the dog. Your dog will be receptive to commands given from this posture much easier than a crouching owner who is seen as an equal or playmate.
To train a dog to stop barking you must first train him to bark on command. When the dog barks on command instead of when he chooses to bark, it is easier to teach him to stop barking during the training session. Once he learns the command for “stop barking” he will follow it outside of training.
Don’t interact with your dog when you are frustrated or angry. Simply put your dog up and take a break. Training will proceed much more efficiently when you return. Each of you will be rested, have a fresh outlook, and be ready to tackle that seemingly elusive training task once again.
Look for triggers that may cause bad behavior from your dog. If your dog is suddenly exhibiting unwanted behaviors, maybe something has changed that day: Has he been able to go on a walk or has he been cooped up? Were you gone all day when normally someone is at home? Dogs are creatures of consistency and when things change their behavior can change as well.
Go through the door before your dog, eat your own dinner first and always make sure that you win tug-of-war, by taking away the toy when you’re done. This all asserts that you are the pack leader and your dog is subordinate. This will help curb other obedience problems and help in other aspects of training because your dog realizes that he MUST do what you say. It’s how he’s hard-wired.
If you have a dog that is driving you crazy with barking, the first step in stopping the barking is to determine the cause. For example, a territorial bark at 2 PM every day, might be related to the mailman’s arrival. If you know the cause of the barking, you can intercept it and help deal with the problem.
Basic training is crucial for a well-mannered, confident, happy, and relaxed dog…and their owner! There are many, many different tips on dog training available and you will find some that work for you. So put some of our tips into practice and go have fun with your dog!
