Dog Training 101 - Know The Dos and Donts

As a dog owner, it is important that you take full responsibility of your pet. This means training him properly so you could both have a better relationship and bonding.

Here are some of the dos and don'ts that you need to remember when you're training your dog:

DO'S

• Focus on your dog and give him your best spare time to conduct the training. Make sure there are no distractions around.
• Prepare treats for your pet. Remember that when you are teaching your dog the basic obedience tricks, you should always have a reward available for him. This will help encourage your pet to do more.
• Think ahead. Try to anticipate the actions of your pet before he begins to move again.
• Be consistent. When teaching your pet a specific command, you should use the same words and tone.
• Remember to reward your pet. Whenever your pet does a specific task, you should reward him with either a doggie treat or praise.
• Find a distraction-free location. Having a distraction-free location can help you fully focus on your pet. At the same time, this will help your dog focus on what he is trying to learn too.
• Be kind and patient. Remember that when you are training your dog, you need a lot of patience. Your pet will get to learn more if you don't force him to learn things right away.
• Teach one command at a time. By being patient with your pet, you can teach him how to follow one command at a certain time. This will stop him from getting confused.
• Use verbal and hand cues. Your hand and verbal cues can help your dog learn better since he will associate the commands with these actions.
• Have fun too. Try to have fun when you are training your dog. This will let him associate the lessons as companionship.

DON'TS

• Allow others to spoil your pet. Your dog must associate that you are his alpha and his master. He should look to you for leadership.
• Punish your pet. There are times when your pet won't be able to do the right command. Avoid punishing your pet. Instead, remain positive and just continue to praise him for the progress he has made.
• Chase him around. When you're teaching your pet to come to you, don't chase him. This will make him think you are playing a game.
• Train longer than 20 minutes. A young pet will grow bored and tired after practicing training. This is why it is recommended to practice the obedience tricks up to 20 minutes per day. Just remember to do it on a daily basis so he can learn easily.
• Use a strong voice. At first, it might be wise to use an excited voice to let your dog come to you. But when you're trying to get your dog's attention, you shouldn't use the same tone. Instead, use a firm, calm voice so that your pet will come to you even if something else exciting is happening.

If you're having a difficult time in training your dog, if would be better to get a help from a professional dog trainer. Furthermore, the earlier you start training your four legged buddy, the easier it will be.