Dog Training: Memories Of Training My Puppy

A few months ago some friends of mine moved to Sarasota, Florida. They had never lived anywhere else, so it was a tough move leaving their families and friends behind. To help make the adjustment easier for their two young boys they decided to get a pet once they got settled in their new environment. They decided to get a dog and they took their time selecting the perfect breed for their family and lifestyle. Once they had their new puppy they looked into puppy obedience training options in their area. Visiting a professional dog training facility is an experience all of its own.

Hearing my friends talk about their new puppy brought back a lot of old memories. It has now been several years since I've had to deal with puppy training. The last few dogs I've had have been rescue dogs of varying breeds and ages. But, there's one thing that's for sure - you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. Dog training can be easy and fun. It's an excellent way for the bond with your dog to grow stronger, regardless of age. Dogs of all ages want to please their owners, and even the most stubborn dogs want praise. Building friendship and trust with your pet is important since they will be a part of your family for many years to come.

The last small puppy I had was terribly stubborn and aggressive, but he was also very lovable and loyal. I had only had him a week when I decided puppy obedience classes were in order. I'm pretty sure I learned more than my puppy did during those puppy obedience classes, as I have used those skills in training every dog I've had since. Each puppy is different and you must work on maximizing the positive features of your pet's personality and abilities while minimizing the negatives. Be realistic in the goals you set to achieve and be patient.

The one thing that my dog never seemed to like was being alone. My veterinarian suggested I get a second dog as a companion and this turned out to be a wonderful idea. I chose an older dog that had been rescued. She had a wonderful temperament, was extremely smart, well behaved and well trained. Even as an older pet, she adjusted to our family and continued to learn throughout her life.

Sometimes you get lucky. My last dog was an Old English Sheep Dog who was six months old when I got her as an extended foster. She was in horrible shape when she was rescued. Apparently someone had abused her, starved her, and finally abandoned her. I worked hard bringing her back to health; gaining her trust and love along the way. Within a very short time she was feeling better, looked better, and began to even trust visitors that came to my home. She is a very smart dog and she learns things easily. Sit, down, off, come, rollover, fetch, heel all came naturally to her.

Dog training can be fun and it's something the entire family can participate in. Having a dog is a wonderful experience and helps children learn responsibility and about love.