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Dog Training Tips That Succeed
By OnTopic | December 30, 2009
Most dogs have a natural desire to please their masters. But this can only be accomplished through proper training. So training your dog is not making him miserable so you can enjoy him, but rather making him happy so you are happy. It is a win-win situation. (For more on this, please see DIY Dog Training.)
Whether or not your dog is on the top ten list of the smartest, he or she can be trained. Let’s discuss some basic principles in training your dog. First, dogs may not understand English, but they do understand rewards. A wise dog trainer will use a reward system that will teach the dog what is acceptable and not acceptable behavior. This means rewarding good behavior and not rewarding bad behavior. A withheld reward teaches also.
In one sense, a dog is like a baby. Successful training for both involves consistency and clarity. Clarity means that we use the same phrase for the same command. If, for example, you say, “Come,” “Here, boy,” “Over here,” and use a waving gesture randomly to train your dog to come, he will be confused. Instead, use a gesture and a word, like pointing down and saying, “Come” every time you want to dog to come. When he comes, give him a treat or at least verbal praise and a pat. Once he consistently follows this, you can wean him from the gesture.
The other word is consistency. Especially during training sessions, the best dog training books recommend each obedience is followed by the same reward. If he does not do the command when it is expected of him, then something different must happen so he knows that was not an acceptable response. You must be consistent until the dog is consistent in obeying the command. Until he learns it, this means 24/7 consistency.
For proper training, be sure that the dog’s basic needs are met. For example, if the dog is overdue for a bladder emptying and he is not allowed outside, don’t punish him for wetting the carpet. If the dog is starved, it may not be time to train him to roll over. Basic needs for a dog would include food, water, exercise, acceptance, and safety.
Have a regular time of training your dog. Hit and miss training sessions mean that the goal will take longer to reach. Make sure these training sessions are not too long, for example, 15-20 minutes is sufficient. Set one goal for each session. Repeat the command until the time is up or the dog learns it.
Don’t expect too much of your dog. Patiently go over the same command daily until he catches on. Advanced tricks may take months to master. It will be worth all the work for him to learn.
Each of these points is vital for the success of your training program. By following them, you will be proud of your dog, and your dog will be happy that he has pleased you.
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