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Dog Training Tips from the Pros
Dog training tips vary from trainer to trainer. In fact, an old
joke states that the only thing two dog trainers will agree on
is what the third trainer is doing wrong. However, there are
some tips that most dog trainers recommend.
Consistency
Dog trainers may disagree on what rules your dog should
follow but all agree that you need to be consistent. If you
don't want dogs on your furniture, don't ever let them on it. If
you don't want your dog to jump, ignore it every time.
Everyone in the family needs to be on the same page about
these rules. Dogs can't understand why one parent lets them on
the furniture and the other doesn't. If the children reinforce
jumping, the jumping will continue. Talk to your family about
what the rules are and how you plan to enforce them.
The Need for Regular Exercise
Exercise needs vary based on the dog's breed and age, but all
dogs need exercise. If you have an adolescent puppy that is
misbehaving while you are gone, he just might need to release
his energy. Adolescent dogs need at minimum two 40 minute
sessions of full-blown running, not just a walk around the
neighborhood, each day. If your dog isn't getting this, try to
make extra time.
Dogs also need socialization. The more chances your dog has
to practice, the better he will be in public or with guests.
Take him places and practice obedience. Expose him to different
people, places and things. Imagine if you never left your house.
Dogs should get a chance to leave their house every day.
Nothing in Life Is Free
You should control all of your dog's
resources and make him earn them. Why does he need you if his
food and water are on the floor all day, and he has his own dog
door? At least during training, he should be sitting and asking
permission at the door, for his food and for anything rewarding
such as petting or games. If your dog solicits petting, make him
do a down first. If he wants to play a game, make him do a trick
or a simple sit.
Your dog should also have to earn his house freedom. Dog
potty training is dependent on limiting his access to making
mistakes as is training your dog not to chew or dig. If your dog
is destroying things or eliminating in the house when you are
not supervising, he has too much freedom.
Teach Commands
Practice obedience with your dog each day.
Mental stimulation is also important for your dog. There are
many useful commands to teach: come, stay, sit, stand, down, go
to your spot, etc. Tricks are fun to teach as well.
Working with your dog each day also helps establish a
relationship with your dog built on trust and respect. If
training is fun, your dog will like to listen. Make sessions
short and positive. Spread them throughout the day, so it seems
like training time is all the time.
The type of training you do with your dog will vary with your
dog and your interests. But no matter what your ultimate goals
are, these basic tips will improve every training relationship.
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