10 Tips for Dog Training

By Katrina Walton

  • Make Training Fun
  • Dogs need attention
  • Dogs don’t misbehave on purpose
  • Set training routine
  • Don’t punish for potty training accidents
  • Hellos and Goodbyes should be mellow
  • Socialize puppies before 5 months old
  • Be the leader
  • Be consistent
  • Research before adopting

  1. When you train your dog, he will not only be taught commands, but he will also learn that training is fun and you and your dog will form a strong, rewarding bond.
  2. Dogs love and need attention. However no dog should always get attention when he wants it. If your dog attempts to get your attention by jumping, nudging your arm, barking or any other demanding behavior, do not pay attention to him because if you do you will be reinforcing demanding, unacceptable behavior. Attention should be given on your terms and can be used as a reward to reinforce good behavior.
  3. Dogs do not purposely misbehave. It is up to you as their owner to guide and teach them. The more you reward good behavior your dog will learn that it's in his best interest to repeat good behavior.
  4. A few ways you as a dog owner can incorporate training into your daily routine is by having your dog sit before each meal, practicing sit and wait when leaving and arriving at your front door, and giving the leave it take it command when giving treats.
  5. When potty training, NEVER punish a dog after the fact. Yelling, making loud noises, hitting or other punishments don't help and can actually cause fear and make the process of house training worse. If your dog is caught in the act use a word such as "eh" or "no" to interrupt the behavior, then take him outside saying "let's go potty" in a calm tone of voice.
  6. Leaving and arriving at your house should ALWAYS be kept calm and unemotional. When you leave give your dog a chew toy or a stuffed kong to keep him busy and walk out the door. When you arrive completely ignore your dog until he is calm. Once he is calm reward that behavior. This will teach your dog to greet you in a calm manner and also helps with cases of separation anxiety. NOTE: Never leave your dog for a long period of time without being exercised first.
  7. The best time to socialize your puppy with dogs and people is before five months of age.
  8. The key to a successful, happy and healthy relationship with your dog is to be your dog's leader. Dogs are not natural born pack leaders. If you do not take this position, your dog will feel the need to fill the role and you will be on your way to an unbalanced relationship. Dogs look to you for guidance. They are happiest when they have direction and are told what to do.
  9. Consistency is the most important part of training. Everyone in the family must be consistent. If you are 60% consistent with your leadership, your dog will give you 60% of his obedience.
  10. Research what breed is right for you before getting a dog. Read about breed characteristics, temperament, level of energy, if they are tolerant of children, how often they need to be groomed, what they were originally bred for and how much exercise they require on a daily basis. NOTE: You should always pick a breed that has a level of energy that is slightly lower than yours.

 

FACT: There are far too many dogs in this world already. Every year over 5 million dogs are legally euthanized in the United States because they are homeless and/or unwanted. (Please spay and neuter your dogs and consider adoption.)

Katrina Walton
Dog Trainer/Behaviorist
www.canineconsistency.com