Top 10 Training Tips
1. Remember your dog is a dog and reacts as a dog; not a human. Take time to learn the basics about canine
behavior and learning. This will help you motivate him and communicate more clearly. Check out my recommended list
of books to get started. 2. Your dog’s overall health plays a big role in behavior. Make sure his diet is right for him. Every breed and individual has different needs. 3. Get fit! Make sure you and your dog get plenty of exercise. Both of you will relieve stress, anxiety and feel better. Walk your dog regularly; daily whenever possible. Not only is this great exercise, it is important to your dog’s socialization. Domestic dogs still have the migratory instincts of their ancestors and need an outlet for this. No matter how large your yard is, you need to walk the dog. 4. Do you know where your dog is? If you can’t watch him, confine him on leash, in his crate or other place he will be safe and comfortable. Leaving a dog unattended in a fenced yard for long periods is not acceptable. Ignoring a dog invites unwanted behaviors. If he were to become ill, you might have no way of knowing what he got into. Look for potential dangers or opportunities for trouble BEFORE they happen. Example: If your dog is headed towards the trash, say “Ah Ah!” or “No trash” and lead him away with a treat. Reward him for listening to you. Do not try to punish him after the fact. He already got what he wanted! 5. Set your priorities. First focus on the basics, like housetraining and good manners, then move on to obedience or tricks. 6. Dogs love routine. Knowing what to expect brings a sense of security and confidence. Maintaining a routine also allows you to control their environment, thus establishing leadership. Do not give your dog “too much freedom, too fast”. 7. If there is something your dog loves to do, find an acceptable outlet for the behavior. Avid chewers need tons of different chew toys to keep them busy. Diggers can have special doggie sandboxes made specifically for them. Use your imagination! 8. Dogs should be handled constantly. You should be able to touch your dog anywhere without him pulling away. If you have a puppy, make it a daily practice to rub him all over; including ears, paws and checking his mouth. Dogs resistant to touches should be approached gradually. Never force yourself on a dog. Make the experience pleasant; the dog will associate good feelings with being handled. 9. Enroll in a good positive-reinforcement training course. Effective learning requires a physically and emotionally safe environment. Reject punishment-based methods of training (i.e. electronic/shock or chain collars). These compromise your dog’s trust. Effective leadership is about trust, not dominance. A good class teaches you to properly encourage and reward good behavior. 10. Don’t stop. Learning is a lifelong process. Even skills your dog has down pat need to consistently be reinforced. Take advanced classes in obedience or organized dogs sports. Volunteering with your dog Therapy Dogs International, The Delta Society and R.E.A.D. are some national programs worth considering. Look for further opportunities in your area. |
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| Head-to-Tail, Inc. PO Box 364 * Monrovia, MD 21770 * (301) 332-8712 * info@head-to-tail.com |