Dog Training Essentials

Dogs provide their owner’s love and joy. Owners enjoy unconditional love from their paw pals. But problems can arise as pets adjust to their new environment like sneaking food off the dinner table, barking loudly while you’re on the phone, and causing chaos and mayhem around the house. Having a well-trained dog isn’t the same as having a balanced dog, but if your dog knows a few basic commands, it can be helpful when encountering problem behaviors.

The key to a good dog is a well-trained dog and that’s where dog training comes in.

Dog training will not only teach your pawpal to behave better, but it will also keep them safe. It is never too late for dogs to get trained, but the earlier they learn, the better they become.

Why is Dog training important?

Dog training help dogs adjust to being part of a human family. It helps in dog socialization, who are pack members by nature. It will teach them how to interact with their owners, environments, and strangers. Another reason why training is important because it teaches your dog what is required of them. It provides mental stimulation which helps to keep your dog happy, and if combined with morning exercise your dog will be mentally and physically tired at the end and far more likely to sleep during the day.

When Should Training start?

Training should start during the puppy’s first three months of life. Puppies are fast learners and quickly adapt to their environment. When your puppy is old enough, think about getting him or her neutered or spayed. A neutered or spayed dog is more docile, less aggressive, and maybe more open to successful training. At this age, curiosity outweighs fear. Puppies can become fearful and aggressive if they aren’t trained during this crucial period. Expose puppies to as many new people, places, and animals as possible. This is the time when they need to socialize with other dogs in order to learn social cues and how to communicate well with other dogs.

For dogs that are no longer in the puppy stage, owners should use reward-based training that revolves around positive reinforcement as the basis of training. Never rush the process. Remember, you’re asking a lot of your dog. If you take it up a notch and he’s really struggling, go back to the previous stage.

Why is Correction needed? 

This means teaching your pawpal the difference between good and bad behavior/attitude. Correction doesn’t include punishment, physical violence, or spanking. Saying a firm “No,” to your puppy will be a good command. This is a good way to change those bad behaviors and making sure that they are disciplined.

What is a Reward? 

Giving of treats to a job well done is a good reward system in training your dogs. Some of the items can be anything your dog loves, like a toy or favorite food. When your dog behaves, say, “Good dog,” then make sure to shower it with praise. Dogs love getting praise and cuddled every time they did something good or got the job done.

Always remember that training is an ongoing process. It is important to keep working on dog training throughout the life of your dog. Running through even the most basic tricks and commands will help them stay fresh in your dog’s mind. And as the owner training your dog, remember to have the right mindset to practice calm-assertive energy and patience. Plus, training is a great way to spend time with your dog.