A Brief Guide to Dog Training

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     Most pet owners recognize the importance of dog training. Dogs that are well trained are easy to live with. They are not a danger to themselves or others. Such animals are content and happy. Pet ownership should be a rewarding experience for all.

To train dogs successfully requires patience, commitment and understanding. Owners need to be consistent and positive in their approach. It is an ongoing process. Dogs are never fully trained but continue to learn throughout their lives. People need to have a grasp of how their pets perceive the world before they can modify their behavior.

A good trainer will know that there is more to the process than simply teaching a dog to obey commands, important though this is. It is, perhaps, more important to understand what underpins the behavior of dogs. They are pack animals with a need for social order. If owners fail to establish themselves as confident leaders their pets may feel confused. Some will attempt to take on the role of 'top dog' and this can lead to unwanted behavior.

It is not necessary for owners to be aggressive in order to establish their leadership. Good relationships between people and their pets are based upon mutual respect. Owners need to assume a natural authority. They can signal this to their pets by behaving in a calm and confident manner. It is essential to be consistent and use a moderate tone of voice. Dogs rarely understand why their owners are shouting or screaming.

People should not treat their pets as if they were human. Far from being kind, this simply confuses them. Some pet owners make the mistake of giving their dogs privileges that send conflicting messages about their status in the pack. Preventing pets from getting onto furniture, for example, is not only practical in terms of cleanliness, but also reinforces their lower pack status. Dogs like to know their place; it makes them feel secure.

Positive reinforcement of good behavior is a key aspect of successful techniques. It is important to reward good behavior immediately. If there is a time lapse the pet may fail to connect the behavior with the reward. Rewards may be in the form of a food treat, a toy, physical affection, or simply praise. Similarly, it is pointless reprimanding dogs unless they are caught in the act of misbehaving.

Dogs cannot be expected to behave well unless they are well exercised and receive plenty of stimulation. Dogs that are cooped up alone all day will soon show signs of stress and anxiety. This will translate into poor behavior. It is important that owners take their dogs out for regular walks on a daily basis. Pets should not be bored. Dogs really enjoy activities such as fly-ball and agility classes. They will thrive if owners play games with them and show them affection.

Before welcoming a pet into the home people should learn as much about their needs as possible. Enrolling in dog training classes can be fun for owners and dogs alike. It can also set them on the right road to a long-lasting and fulfilling relationship.

Enrolling your puppy into a puppy school is important for developing a healthy and nurturing relationship between you and your dog. Having your pet potty trained by our dog training in London Ontario and dog training in Calgary experts can easily save you money and headaches. Bark Busters in Home Dog Training Toronto, ON (416) 988-3169 +1 866-418-4584

Enrolling your puppy into a puppy school is important for developing a healthy relationship between you and your dog. Having your pet potty trained by experts can save you money and headaches. Bark Busters in Home Dog Training Toronto, ON (416) 988-3169 +1 866-418-4584http://www.barkbusters.ca