When you first brought your dog home, you were probably having visions of Lassie, but there have probably been days that you were remembering Cujo more. Proper training can transform your puppy, into the Lassie you thought you'd brought home.
Be sure to keep your dog active and engaged a great deal of the time. Dogs can easily get bored. Not to mention that a bored dog is going to be more stubborn during training. Keeping your dog exercised and happy will help them pay attention more due to releasing all excess energy that often distracts them from your commands. Take your dog on long walks or runs.
You must repeat all new commands. You might have to keep repeating something to a dog as much as fifty times for it to ‘click'. Keep working patiently on the command- he'll get it with time.
Do not reinforce any negative behaviors accidentally. Avoid giving them any rewards they haven't earned. Don't scratch the dogs back, give it a snack or reward it in any way if it jumps, barks or does anything you don't approve of.
If your dog wants to jump you should squeeze their paws when they do so, they will know that they shouldn't do that. This will not hurt him, but it is quite uncomfortable. Since it is so uncomfortable, they'll avoid jumping on people.
Your dog should exercise a minimum of one hour per day. Also, ensure that you regularly train your dog and take him or her out for bathroom breaks. Ensuring your dog gets thorough exercise will cause your training sessions to be much more effective, which will encourage your dog to behave better. Your dog will be happier and more responsive when he gets the exercise he needs.
Avoid accidents when potty training your dog. Try to recognize your dog's body language and anticipate his need to go out. If your dog is pacing or whining, you need to take them outside. Do not wait more than a couple of minutes. Quickly leash your pet and lead him to an area where he can relieve himself. Whenever your dog uses the restroom outside, reward him or her with lots of praise. The dog will eventually give you a sign when he needs to go out.
Firmness is essential for successful training your dog. However, you should avoid being too loud or aggressively reprimanding your dog as this will hurt your relationship. Your goal should be to show that you are both strict and forgiving. This ensures you have a positive relationship between the dog and yourself.
Use your dog's name when you can, as it will help to get your dog to pay attention. Use the name often, especially during the first weeks at home; the puppy should associate his name with focusing on you. Chose a name that can easily be distinguished from other words, and that has only one or two syllables.
The tone of your voice is an important part of successfully disciplining your dog. Dogs are very good at responding to perceived emotions of their trainers. Using a stern tone will help reinforce discipline if used appropriately.
Don't get frustrated by accidents during the potty training phase. Clean accidents up immediately to assist in your training efforts. The smell from the feces and urine can stay in the carpet, and cause your pet to want to relieve themselves on that spot more often. There are a number of products available at pet stores that get rid of these odors.
People are often amazed about how easy it can be to train your dog and how quick they see changes. Consider giving some of the ideas outlined above a try, in order to improve the bond between you and your dog.