7 dog training tips

If you do not train your dog well, he could turn into a nightmare instead of a great loving companion. He can poo in the middle of your priceless antique carpet, or chew the legs of your table. Therefore, one of the greatest responsibilities of being a dog owner, is training your dog properly.

dog-training-tips

Many experts have different ideas about how to train a dog, however, the following 7 tips are the commonly accepted basics:

Tip #1: Always use your dogs name in a loving, soft, positive manner. When you are angry and yelling, or punishing your dog, never use his name. This helps him understand that while he is ok, the behavior is not.

Tip #2: Never reinforce your dogs unacceptable behavior, even if it seems cute or funny to you at first. If you saw him eat from the dinner plate you prepared for your guests, make sure you frown, and punish him, not laugh about him. Otherwise, hell do it always, and will think it is acceptable, even good.

Tip #3: It is a lot easier to train a dog when they are young puppies. You know the old saying, you cant teach an old dog new tricks. While you certainly can teach even old dogs new tricks, it will be harder if he has some negative habits you need to overcome. The first few weeks and months are great times for a dog to learn the basics of socialization, like learning how hard he can safely bite while playing.

Tip #4: Do your best not to lose your temper. If you lose control of your feelings and pass negative emotions to him, it will slow down his learning process. Be patient, and firm, but still loving.

Tip #5: Dogs respond to positive motivation much better than they do to punishment. Keep that in mind and try to minimize punishments by being proactive and preventing problem behavior and proper education.

Tip #6: Do not give your dog conflicting or confusing commands. For example, generally the command down means the whole body is close to floor,all the way to stomach. If you use sit for sitting position, and than say him sit down, he will be confused and will not know what to do.

Tip #7: If you need to punish your dog, make sure you do it right after the unwanted act. If you find poo on the floor after a few hours has passed, and you yell him, he wont have any idea what youre yelling for.
Dog training is about communicating with your dog in an effective manner. If you communicate clearly the positive behaviors, consistently reward him for obeying your commands, and separate complex tasks into smaller tasks and teach him step by step patiently, youll go a long way.

Remember it is better to train him in a patient, loving manner, to get the best results. Punishment rarely works. When a dog acts out, it is generally because you cannot lead him with persistence and loving guidance. Most dogs crave a strong leader. Be the leader and your dogs will love you for it.
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