Jun 25 2010
Expert Dog Training Tips
No matter if you have a brand new puppy or an older dog, it makes good sense to dedicate a bit of time training them. And while there is an abundance of information available about how to train your dog, you cannot go wrong with dog training guidance from the experts.
1. Positive reinforcement is important. Whilst there are numerous theories concerning how to train your dog, most dog training experts recognize that positive reinforcement is most effective. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog with verbal praise “good dog”, physical praise like a pat on the head and food rewards. It does not involve screaming at your dog, smacking or punishing them.
Positive reinforcement works because it forms a bond of trust with your dog. Dogs are motivated by rewards particularly food rewards.
2. Consistency is a must. If you are working with your dog on a particular skill or trick then make an effort to train them at the same time each day. This helps your dog learn what to expect. The majority of dogs thrive on structure and will perform and learn faster once they understand what’s expected. If you are training using food rewards, try to train your dog before mealtime so they are a little bit hungry and motivated.
3. Have patience. Dogs tend to learn in waves. Sometimes they pick things up quickly and then the following day it appears as though you have to start again from the beginning. Be patient. Begin every new trick with tiny steps and be crystal clear about what you expect. Even with the smallest tricks such as “sit” you should break it down into smaller steps.
4. Use hand cues as well as verbal cues. A number of dogs have an easier time comprehending and remembering hand signals than they do with verbal cues. Assign a hand signal to each trick or behavior you’re training.
5. Train in small increments. Dogs have short attention spans. Trying to train them for twenty or thirty minutes isn’t going to work. They are going to become frustrated and lose focus. Instead, keep training sessions to a maximum of five minutes.
To start with, you may choose to train for only a minute or two until eventually your dog learns to look forward to training. Dogs can learn to dislike training. Keeping the training sessions short will help them learn to enjoy the process.
6. Always end on a positive note. Learning a new trick is hard work. Conclude each training session, no matter how frustrating, on a positive note. Always give your dog a trick or behavior to perform that they have learned to perform and finish with a food reward and lots of praise.
7. Keep your dog healthy. Finally, one of the most important dog training tips from the experts recommends feeding your dog good quality dog food, giving them sufficient fresh drinking water and ensuring they have adequate rest. A healthy dog is a happier dog and will understand desired behaviors much more quickly.
For more dog training tips, visit Obedience Training for Dogs.
