Dog training – Some Tips

Dog training may seen like a daunting task. However, there is hope. Just remember to let the dog know that you are the master and he or she is not. Make sure that you speak in a tone that shows authority. Routine is crucial. If you keep these things in mind, you cannot go wrong.

When you bring that sweet little puppy home, you just want to let it do whatever it wants to do, because it is oh so cute. However, you must keep in mind that you are in charge, just as you would when you bring a child home from the hospital. Letting the puppy know that you are boss and what you say goes from the moment you bring him home will allow the puppy to see there are boundaries that are not to be crossed. Make sure that you start off with pointing, using gestures and body language that you will use consistently so that the dog will associate that motion with what he is to do.

Say it like you mean it. When you begin taking your dog for a walk or training him to stay in the yard, you must speak in a very firm authoritative tone. This is very important. If not, the dog may not know that you are serious or associate what you are saying with danger or discipline. Make sure that when you are going for a walk or asking the dog if he needs to go outside, you use a tone that shows excitement, something that he would want to do. This helps him differentiate between the firmness of you saying “stay” while looking to cross the street with his excitement to be outside and explore.

Routine is the key. Make sure that the gestures, the tone and the words that you use are consistent. Using the same routine will allow the puppy to adapt to his new surroundings and make him feel safe and secure, as well as help you feel more at ease knowing that your dog will obey. When taking the dog outside, always use the same door, so he knows that is where he is always to be when he needs to go outside. When you go to bed, use the same command or short phrase, so that he may recognize what time it is. Routine with dogs allows both of you to know what to expect and the dog will be far more likely to obey if he knows what is coming.

With all that said, have fun and enjoy the new member of your family! Training can be an exciting time and does not have to be frustrating. Go to the park on a sunny day and play while teaching him how to obey. Just remember to let him know, in love, who is boss!

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Dog Training