Effective Dog Training Tips
Nothing can feel more rewarding for a dog owner than to see his or her pet develop a good level of obedience.
Countless dog enthusiasts across the world attest to the joy and pleasure of having a well-trained dog. Of course, this requires a significant amount of time and effort. Dog training is never easy but when done right, it can definitely feel very fulfilling. Those who have done it successfully can tell you that anyone can learn to train dogs - as long as they are willing to pay the price.
Here are some time-tested tips you might want to keep in mind if you are just starting out:
Make training sessions short
Pretty much like little kids, dogs actually have short attention spans. This means that lengthy training sessions are absolutely pointless. Going beyond 15 minutes may bore your dog. Also, remember not to overwhelm your dog by teaching too many skills and behavior in a single session.
Be consistent in the use of words
One common mistake among newbie dog trainers is to use single word commands in different ways on different days. This can lead to confusion and so your dog may not be as responsive as you would expect him to be.
For example, saying "Brownie, jump!" one day and "Jump high, Brownie!" may confuse your pet. It is always better to pick a single word or phrase and use it often. Your dog will be more obedient if you observe the simple rule of staying consistent during training time.
Rewards are good
When the dog obeys you or successfully performs a skill you have just taught, make it a point to let the dog know that his efforts do not go unnoticed.
Giving rewards can be an excellent way to provide further encouragement for your pet. A snack or a toy may be most appropriate. On top of that, simple gestures such as a hug or a scratch behind their ears can make dogs feel happy, too.
Seek professional help
Even if you are trying to train the dog on your own, remember that there is nothing wrong about asking for expert advice. Go visit a local veterinarian or even a professional dog trainer. Consulting with these specialists can help you learn valuable training strategies. Furthermore, they can help evaluate your dogs behavior and teach you additional tips so you can fulfill your responsibilities better.
