Tips on Training Your Dog or Puppy

Helping your pup or dog adjust to its new home is as important to future behavior as any other factor. The way you begin this process will likely set the tone for your relationship with your dog. It's important that one person act as the main authority figure during this introductory phase. This will make training much easier as the pup ages.

Not That, This - Whether its behavior or obedience training, the key to getting your dog properly trained is to stop bad behaviors before they begin. It's far more difficult to train a dog not to do something than it is to train them to do something. Remember that distinction when you reward your pet's bad behavior. Whether it's barking nonstop, climbing on the furniture, or chewing shoes the best way to train your dog is to begin training the moment you notice the behavior. Your dog will quickly see that the rewards come when he doesn't chew shoes or eat from the table.

Rewards Galore - As lovable as dogs are, they are equally simple. Dogs enjoy the simple things in life like wind in their faces, affection and praise. This makes the job of training them pretty simple. If there's something you want your dog to do (or not do), reward him only when the task is completed. Many people have difficulties with this concept so I'll elaborate for the sake of your sanity.

- If your dog's poison is shoes, reward him once the shoe is out of his mouth and he's sitting calmly. - When he barks near the door to do his doggy business, reward him. - Reward your pup big if he takes a seat at your feet rather than next to you on the sofa.

If you're clear about which behavior you're rewarding, your dog will understand and do everything he can to win endless hugs and dog treats.

Set Boundaries - Many dog problems require very little active training, as long as you set boundaries from the moment your pup gets home. Don't wait until your pup is a full grown dog to begin training, or you will have your hands full for quite some time. If you don't want a 50-pound dog leaving hair all over your furniture, don't allow him to do it as a cute little pup.

Begin teaching the commands as you set boundaries and your dog will begin to pick up. Combined with the reward system, setting boundaries will make training your pup to do just about anything easy as pie. Remember that yelling at your pup won't help, just strongly state your command and reward him when he complies.

Be Authoritative - Training your dog is all about keeping him focused. As good-natured playful creatures, dogs can often be distracted by the beauty of the world, or their love for you. While this makes you feel warm and fuzzy, it makes training your pup a task. Being authoritative simply means giving commands in a forceful tone without frightening the dog.

Remember that frightening a dog into submission is a near guaranteed way to force him to strike back. This can be tricky with dominant dogs, which is why it's important to start early.

Andrew Daigle owns and operates many successful websites including http://www.dog-training-advice-tips.com, a website to learn how to train dogs and puppies with proven techniques, video training and more.