Before anyone embarks on training their dog, there are some basic training facts that they should acquaint themselves with. We aim to show you some proven dog training basics that hopefully allow the experience to be rewarding for you and your dog.
At a very early stage in the relationship with your dog it is extremely vital that you demonstrate to the animal that you are the boss. Dogs are a pack animal and they will respond to the leader of the pack. First though they will test the water to see if they can become the leader.
Naturally some breeds of dog are more aggressive in their desire to be the leader themselves, other dogs are not so forceful. Nonetheless you must demonstrate that you are the leader and in control. Your dog will test that control absolutely. He will try to push your willpower in this manner. There is no reason to be physically abusive to your dog in order to get control, it’s accomplished by your actions and your will must be stronger than your dog’s.
You should set up a timetable each and every day for training. Your dog will anticipate what is happening and will respond. Respect can be gained by kindness but firmness and a dog can be trained even if he is a little older. Training is not just for puppies.
This is about the basics and it does not get much more basic than teaching your dog to sit. But it’s a good place to start because it will lead on to other commands from that position that you will want to teach.
Be firm during training and use the same word for each command. Say the word clearly, and never punish your dog if he doesn’t want to do what you want. Use positive reinforcement when your dog does do what you want him to do. Punishing or scolding your dog will only confuse him, so have patience while you are training him to behave the way you want him to.
Dogs are not like humans, they forget easily sometimes, so even though you might take a day or so off from training, any interaction with him will always need you to maintain that control. You cannot mentally have a day off and expect your dog to understand what is happening.
The relationship that develops between dog and owner when the training is done properly is something to be proud of and cherished.The time and patience that you have shown will be rewarded with a lovely calm and well behaved dog that you can be proud of.
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