The dog that you have just adopted may seem less like Lassie, and more like Cujo. With some basic training, you can teach your dog to act better quicker.
Use small steps when training a dog or pup to get into a crate, so that they can become familiar with it. When they seem comfortable in it with the door open, try shutting the gate and feed them treats through the wires. Use small increments of time, and build them up as your puppy or dog becomes more relaxed with the process. If the dog shows signs of distress, you may be progressing too quickly.
Keep your dog active. When dogs have nothing to do, they can get bored. Dogs that are bored are not easy to train. Your dogs will obey more quickly if you keep them well exercised. Bring your dog along when you walk or jog.
Dogs have the uncanny ability to have single-minded focus when something catches their attention. If you get your dog to focus on you, it will help his behavior.
Be patient when teaching your dog, it will take some time. It may take as many as fifty repetitions before your dog learns the command. Continue trying the same command and be patient, your dog will get it.
Give your dog a clear verbal cue that means “yes” to aid in training. One good word can act as an appreciated segue from the good behavior to the ultimate reward.
Don't use any kind of devices, like a shock collar, when training your dog. In many cases, they do not live up to the advertising expectations created, and are just more money than more effective and traditional training tools. This is also a negative way to train your dog and might cause them to be aggressive. In short, using techniques like this could have negative effects.
As you are working to house train your pet, select a single term or phrase that you will use. Every time you take him outside, tell him “go potty,” (use whatever phrase you have chosen) and this will help him learn to focus and remember what he has gone outside to do.
Start your training your dog with something that will be easy for him to learn. This will act as a foundation for further training as well as help you see instant success. This will give you much better results while training.
If your pet is prone to jumping onto your lap, you should gently squeeze his paws after he does so. This communicates that the behavior is unacceptable and should be avoided. This will not harm your dog if done gently, but it will be uncomfortable. Since it is so uncomfortable, they'll avoid jumping on people.
Many dog owners are surprised to find that training your dog is a much easier and faster process than they had expected. So if you are looking to change any of your dog's wayward ways, try some of our tips for quick success!