Most professionals consider Dog Training Important to any canine-human relationship. Keep your dog well-behaved and happy with a few easy tricks and pet behavior commands. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
Dog Training: Important Things to Know
Statistics show that many new dog owners end up getting rid of their pets within the first year because they can't control their behavior. While getting a puppy for Christmas seemed like a great idea at the time, within weeks the little pup is chewing the couch, piddling on the carpets, and maybe even acting aggressive toward the children. If the owners don't want to or don't know how to train the puppy in even the most basic behaviors, then that poor pooch won't last long in the household.
The first step to consider when training a dog is to commit to being consistent. Most dogs aren't stupid; in fact, they're usually experts at reading your body language and voice and facial cues, and are anxious for your praise and love. As pack animals, however, they are also highly concerned with who's the leader in the relationship. If you don't assert yourself as the leader from day one, your dog will happily take the role herself.
Basic Dog Training Commands
The following is a list of the most basic commands that every dog should know. Even if they don't end up mastering each one, a foundation in these commands is essential: "sit," "stay," "come," "down," "off," and "potty."
The training technique is the same for each of these commands; that is, give the command, move your dog into the position (or behavior), then reward and praise her. Here are a few tips to make any training session easier:
With just a little bit of patience and lots of praise, your dog can be well-behaved and a model of obedience.