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How to Train Your Dog

by Heidi Serven

Whatever type of dog you have, no matter the age, all dogs and their owners can benefit from dog training. Training at a young age is preferred, however if your dog is older it is possible to break him or her of any bad habits and teach new ones, with consistent training methods, positive reinforcement and lots of rewards.

In order for any training to be successful, you must become the leader of your dogs pack. Most dogs will look to the direction of someone else to be in charge, but if no one assumes that role your dog will, which will lead to bigger problems.

Consistency is Key
Be sure that you are sending the same message to your dog each time and that it is the right message. Training will be more successful
if you use the same commands over and over, until your dog catches on. Most dogs and humans for that matter respond well to repetitive learning, followed by positive reinforcement and rewards.

The Basics
Dog training can be accomplished using a variety of resources at home, through an obedience class or with the assistance of a dog trainer. Training equipment is modest and requires a leash and collar for your dog and on your behalf a commitment of time, patience and a sense of humor. Keep training sessions short in order to maximize your dog’s attentiveness and performance, but train often to reinforce the message. In order for your dog to be a well-mannered and obedient member of the family, he or she should learn how to sit, stay, come when called, lie down and walk on a leash.

Rewards and Punishment
Tangible rewards are important to successful dog training. Use treats broken into very small pieces, as you may go through lots of them in a short time. It’s important to also use lots of verbal praise and affection, so that in time your dog will be able to perform a command, without the reward of food. Rewards should be used only when your dog obeys a command or performs a trick correctly.
If the dog does not perform or performs incorrectly, he or she should not be rewarded.

Punishments for not performing should include withholding
of the reward and a firm “No.” Voice tones should be clear and firm. Verbal praise should be loving, encouraging and excited, while “No” tones should be firm and slightly louder.

Training Should Be Fun
Every training session should be a positive and anticipated interaction between you and your pet. Every exercise should serve a useful purpose in teaching your dog what is expected of his or her behavior. Once your dog has mastered the basic commands, add a few tricks to his routine. Every training session should end on a positive note with doing something that your dog enjoys, such as going for a walk or playing a came of catch in the yard.

Remember, that like responsible pet ownership, training is a commitment that takes time and effort, but the rewards of building
a bond between you and your pet and having a well-manned and obedient four-legged friend will go a long way to a life time of
happiness for the whole family.

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