Dog training can seem very daunting to the beginner. There are many different methods and ideas out there, but you don’t have to be overwhelmed if you take the time to learn a few tips for how to train your dog. This article should give you some great advice on how best to start training your dog, so read on!
Start by Reading Books About Training
The best thing you can do is start learning. Training your dog is a lifelong process, so you’ll never be finished. But the more time and energy you put into it from the beginning, the easier things will be in the future!
If you are not sure what to do with your dog, start by reading books about training. By reading everything you can, you’ll be better equipped to handle any situation that may arise.
Start Small and Work Your Way Up
Training your dog is a mental exercise for them. You might want your dog to physically do something like “sit,” but the hardest part is teaching them how to do it and when. Instead, start with something simple like teaching them to shake paws.
To teach your dog how to shake hands, all you need to do is place their paw in yours and gently move it back and forth a few times. Be sure not to grip too tightly or they might resist squeezing back! After the first time doing this together, repeat the process but be sure to give it a name.
Something like “shake” or “paw” makes sense. You can call the command whatever you want, just be sure you never switch out command words. This can cause your dog a lot of confusion and make learning the command much harder for them.
Dogs Learn Through Repetition So Be Sure to Repeat Commands Often
It’s better to practice commands with your dog more often and for less time per session. Shorter training sessions are more effective and make your dog want to learn.
Dogs are very intelligent creatures, but they don’t speak our language or think the way we do. They also have a much shorter attention span than us – so shorter sessions are going to go better. If you draw out a session, your dog will become bored, and a bored dog is not going to be motivated.
Practice the Commands in Different Locations
When you’re teaching your dog a new skill, it’s important to do it in an environment that is free of distractions. This will make it easier for them to focus on the task at hand.
However, you should practice those same commands in different locations so they’re comfortable with responding to that command when there are distractions or other things going on around them. Doing this before tackling a new skill ensures your dog is more likely to succeed in several different environments.
Be Patient and Have Fun
One of the worst things you can do when training your dog is to get angry. Your dog can sense your mood which means that they will react accordingly.
So instead of yelling at your dog, try to remain patient and calm while you train them. Keep it fun for both of you! Again, short training sessions will help here. Provide your dog with redirection when they fail, and plenty of praise and treats when they are successful.
If this is a really hard task because the commands are too difficult for your pup at first, take some time off in between sessions so they do not get overwhelmed.
Make Sure That You Reward
The best way to make a behavior stick is to make sure they get a great reward when they do that behavior.
To teach your dog to follow the command “sit” for example, start with a treat in one hand and their leash in your other hand. Pull the food hand up towards you so it’s at about eye level and make sure your dog’s eyes follow the treat. Tell them “sit” as you do this. When they sit, give them the treat and pet them on the head.
If they don’t sit right away, keep repeating “sit” and pulling the treat upwards. Do not give them the treat until their bottom hits the floor.
Final Tips
Remember, training your dog will always be an ongoing process. Keep these simple tips in mind when training your dog:
- Dogs are not humans, so be patient.
- Read their body language and know when they are getting bored.
- Use high-value treats to reinforce behavior.
- Stay positive.
- Keep your training sessions short.
Training your dog is an ongoing process, and any dog can learn new tricks. It’s important to communicate clearly and use positive reinforcement as often as possible so your pup understands what is expected of them and feels safe throughout the process.