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Essential Steps When Training Your Dog

Essential Steps When Training Your Dog

If you have a new puppy or an older dog that you’re training, you may be searching for the best dog training book, course, or products in order to get your desired results.  Whatever you’re in the market for, there are some essential steps you should know about when training your pet for common commands or behavior issues.

• Start Easy – with training commands or cues, start with the basics, (sit, stay, etc) and work your way up to more complicated commands, (roll-over, fetch, play dead, etc)
• Breed appropriate – when teaching commands keep in mind what your particular dog’s breed is known for.  For example, if you have a Poodle, you would have a difficult time teaching them to herd cattle.  But if you have an Australian Shepherd, herding is in their nature and will, therefore, make teaching them a lot easier. Some dog training behaviour is genetic so know your breed and what they specialize in.
• Timing – when teaching your dog a new command, give them positive reinforcement, (praise, a treat, clicker sound, or other dog training products) as soon as they do the correct move to associate the action with a positive reinforcement. Even if your dog only does part of the motion such as when teaching them to sit and they squat for a split second, reinforce that behavior.  As they learn the cue, the amount of time they stay in each position will increase.
• Distraction – when you’re training something new, be sure that you’re in an area free from things or activities that could distract your dog.  As their skill level increases, add distractions and environments that will make it hard for them to concentrate into the mix to ensure that your dog can present the desired behavior in any atmosphere.
• Distance – when teaching something new, you should start by being right next to or in front of your dog.  As their skill level increase, increase your distance from your dog.  For example, if your dog is already proficient at the “sit” command, gradually try getting them to “sit” when you’re further and further away.  Eventually, your dog should “sit” on cue even if you’re across the yard from them.
• Location, location, location – along with the distance and distraction steps, also practice commands and cues in different locations.  You may be able to get Rover to “sit and stay” in your own backyard, but on a busy street may be another story.
• Voice – try different commands and cue in a different tone of voice and at different volumes.  This will help ensure that they actually understand the command or cue and aren’t just responding to your tone and volume.

Training a dog can be a great bonding experience for you and your pet. Whether this is done with a local obedience class or through an online dog training course it is important to be consistent and patient with your pet in order to get results.