Dog Training 101

Dog Training 

The best way to start on the right path to dog ownership is to choose  your breed wisely. While you might fall in love with a cute little pure-bred, a little research might show you that the breed is highly active and needs a lot of exercise before it settles down. Remember, if you have a healthy dog it can live up to 15 years so think hard and choose the breed that best suits your family now and down the road. Here are some more things to think about:

Dog Training 101

  Carve out 15 minutes every day for training. If you work with your  dog longer, he will get too tired to pay attention, if you work less, nothing you go over will be retained. Also, as a pack animal, a dog responds to only one leader − so choose one family member to take the lead. Once the dog has a good grasp of basic commands, other members of the family can expect the dog to follow their lead as well. The name you choose is another pointer that will help in training. Make sure it’s not too complicated and then gently turn the dog’s face toward you refer to him by name.

A good place to start is with crate training. You should be clear that dogs are den animals, therefore they love having a special place that is all their own. The crate is not for punishment. It’s a good place to keep him while you are away from home until he is housebroken. Make sure the first crate you use isn’t too roomy because dogs do not go to the bathroom in their den, so if the crate is small there shouldn’t be a problem. Start with him inside for a few minutes and increase the time a little bit each session. You’ll want him to sleep in his crate as well until he’s fully trained. Keep the crate near the family, especially his trainer so he doesn’t feel isolated or punished.

Dog Training 101

Leash training is next on your list of things to master with your new best friend. Walking together is supposed to be enjoyable and not a game of being dragged along behind your dog. With a little time, and perhaps an obedience training class or two, you’ll be on your way. Once he learns to walk along beside you and not tug at every passing cat, your daily walks will be something you both can look forward to.

Dog Training 101

Even though the old “shake” is a crowd pleaser, before you teach him to give you his paw you should make sure that your dog completely understands the command to stay exactly where they are at any given moment. “Stop!” Or, “Stay!” It could be a matter of life or death in the case of oncoming traffic. Simply using the dog’s name could confuse him and make him think you want him to come to you. So, work on this voice command before you tackle any others.

Every 15 minute training session will strengthen the bond you are building with your dog. He’ll come to trust that you have his best interest at heart and aim to please. Be sure to end each session by repeating something that he excels at so that you can positively reinforce what he is learning. Give lots of love and even a snack or two for a job well done.

Related posts:

Training a Chihuahua : An Introduction

Training A Chihuahua Basic Commands

Chihuahua Training Your Next Step

Potty Training Your Chihuahuas

Are Chihuahuas Easy To Train?

How Do Chihuahuas Like To Play?