Responsible dog owners understand that a trained dog is a good dog. Teaching your dog basic obedience skills, how to follow instructions and proper socialization will assure your pet is both happy and safe. These tips will enable you to train your dog yourself or locate a professional.
Timing is important when training your dog, so you should spend sufficient time training him but should not overdo it. Begin with a training session that lasts a few minutes, and do it for a bit longer every day. Watch to see if the dog's attention begins to fade during sessions.
It may take several times for your dog to learn new commands. It is not uncommon for it to take between 25 to 50 repetitions of the same command for your dog to learn it. Use the command over and over again until the dog gets the hint.
The first step in puppy training is commanding control. The dog will have little respect for you and it won't obey if you do not show that you are the one in charge. Don't let your dog control the direction or pace of your walks.
Training Sessions
Don't bog your puppy down with more information than he can process. You need to keep your training sessions short so that your puppy pays attention. You want to end the session on a positive note; if you push too hard, he will end up dreading your training sessions.
Don't get frustrated by accidents during the potty training phase. Make sure to clean up accidents as soon as they happen. The smell from a pet's feces or urine can stay in the carpet. The puppy may return to that spot if it isn't cleaned quickly. A pet shop in your area will carry products specifically for this problem.
Everything you teach your dog shapes and molds their personality and behavior. If you send your dog the wrong message with teasing or roughhousing, he may have problems interpreting your actions and acting accordingly. You never want to work backwards, so show your dog positive things and you will get positive results.
Dog Outside
Consistency makes it easier to teach your dog how to control himself. Take your dog outside every hour to help teach him this is where you want him to use the bathroom. When he does his toilet outside, remember to praise him. Don't yell at your dog for having an accident. Your dog knows no better, and your yelling is not going to change things. Instead, make the effort and take your dog outside 15 minutes after eating, and every 2 hours otherwise. Also, if you crate your dog, take him outside immediately after releasing him from the crate.
Although it can be very difficult at times, patience should always be used with your dog. Your dog is not human and doesn't know English. They can simply notice your gestures, movements and tone, and lack awareness of your motives. Stay calm and take frequent breaks to prevent frustration.
With any luck, this advice will increase the pleasure your dog brings to you and your loved ones. A well-trained dog is happier and a joy to be around. No matter if you choose to attempt your own training your dog or you enlist the aid of a professional, making sure your pet is fully trained is a great way to ensure the happiness of you and your companion.