How to Train Dogs the Happy Way
Figuring out how to train dogs is tricky stuff. Okay so your dog just peed on the floor for the tenth time today and it’s only ten in the morning! Don’t throw your hands up in exasperation just yet. You need to have a plan of how to train dogs that makes the process a good one for both your dog and you.
I know that spanking a dog with the rolled up newspaper is the dog training method of choice for some but this just doesn’t cut it for many dog owners. (Not to mention that poor dog!) Many dog experts will tell you that you’ll get far better results with positive reinforcement than any other method. Plus your dog will love you for it!
Learning how to train dogs is really not as hard as you think. Your dogs loves you and wants to make you happy. The tricky part comes in relaying to your dog exactly what you want him to do.
Positive reinforcement is a great way to train dogs, and you’ll find that with just a little bit of work, even older dogs can be trained to follow basic commands. Don’t ever believe that an old dog can’t learn new tricks, so make sure that you teach any dog you own basic commands like “sit,” “lie down,” and “heel.”
When you’re getting ready to start your dog training you’ll need to use a cue to signal your dog to perform the desired action. Whether it’s a particular word or gesture, it should be something relatively simple to remember and easy for your dog to understand. Whatever you decide on use the same cue everytime you train your dog to perform the new action to avoid confusion.
As an example you may choose to train your dog to sit down. Start out by telling him in a clear, moderate tone, “sit.” You follow your command by assisting him in that task by pushing his back legs down. Once the task is completed be sure to lavish your dog with lots of praise. You may even want to give him a little treat. Your dog needs to know you’re happy with what he’s done.
Remember that should only reward your dog when he performs at your command. If, for instance, he comes up and sits or rolls over without any prompting for you, do not give him a treat. If you do, you can think of it as him training you, instead!
Also keep in mind the fact that if you are trying to train a destructive behavior out of a dog that you should not scream at him. Losing control and yelling or hitting your dog will only teach him to be afraid of you, and nervous dogs will often do a lot more damage than calm ones. Only reprimand your dog if you actually catch him in the bad behavior, so make sure that you are there to see it!
Training a dog does not have to be a chore. It can be a great way to learn more about your dog and to get to know him well and for the two of you to work together. Take advantage of this opportunity to do just that while training your dog to follow basic commands!
Last 5 posts by Lisa Murray
- How to Train a Labrador to Keep His Paws to Himself - April 21st, 2008
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