How To Train Your Dog

Having a well-trained dog can be an asset to any home, and a pleasure. Dog training classes establishes the bond between dog and human and allows owners to set reasonable boundaries and expectations with their pet that are easy to follow. Training can negate possible negative behaviors inherent in certain breeds like aggression, chewing, barking or socialization problems. Dog training is an effective tool in judging a dog’s temperament and allows owners and pets alike to create a unique and special relationship.

1) Use Positive Reinforcement

Studies have shown time and time again that training methods that reinforce positive

behaviors while ignoring negative ones are much more effective in dog training over time.

Using a treat system for good behaviors enables a dog of almost any intelligence level to

understand the expectations placed on them, and they learn to act accordingly.

2) Clicker Training

clicker training reinforces positive or desired behaviors through the use of a sound

associated with a hand-held clicking device. Originally paired with a food treat, praise or

physical contact, dogs originally respond to the reward, but quickly learn to associate the

sound with the behavior. The sound then becomes reward enough for good behaviors.

3) Consistency

Regardless of the training method, consistency is a vital part of dog training that must be

enforced with all members of the family. Regardless of whom the dog is interacting with,the behaviors and actions should remain the same. If you’re training your dog with verbal commands, those commands should be standard for the whole family. For example, if you’re training the dog to come when called and you use the word “come” to establish the command, and alternate family member should not use the word “here” instead. All family members should use the same words or phrases in order to enable full comprehension.

4) Socialization

Dogs breeds that have a reputation for aggression need to be socialized from a very young age. Socialization integrates your dog with other dogs, other breeds, other animals and other people and is vital for any training success in the future. Allowing the dog to become accustomed to a variety of sights sounds and scents creates a more balanced environment and reduces the chances of aggression throughout its life.

5) Corrective Behavior

When your dog does something that is not desirable  like going to the bathroom in the

house, chewing on the furniture or barking at familiar faces, correction may be necessary.

In order for physical correction to be effective, it must be done immediately after the

negative behavior, and must not include any type of physical abuse or humiliation.

Intelligent dog breeds like German Shepherds especially don’t respond well to humiliation

as a corrective tool. Simply saying “no” in a firm voice is usually sufficient. If aggression is

being displayed, grabbing the dog gently but firmly on the scruff of the neck combined

with the “no” verbal cue is more than enough.

When these at-home training methods don’t seem to be effective, many dog training classes are available in many locations. These classes serve as tools to not only teach your dog obedience and general training, but are also valuable socialization tools. You can also teach your dog, dog training classes at home which is more convenient for most people and not to mention much cheaper and funner. Regardless of the training method you use, establish a bond with your pet. A well-trained and well-behaved pet is a valuable addition to any home or family and can provide support and love for years to come.