Getting started is simple, when you know where to begin. We have compiled this list of tips and techniques to help make training easier for you…
- Define training for yourself first. If you are going to be a successful trainer for your dog, you need to know in advance what training means to you. What are your goals? Do you want a perfectly behaved show dog, or would you be satisfied if your dog learned to come when you call him? There is no definitive answer for what training means – it’s a matter of preference that only you can define. But, make the decision before you begin so that you know what your own expectations are.
- Train your dog to be less sensitive. Dogs can have many of the same fears as humans, and part of your training efforts should be concentrated on teaching your dog how to handle fear and anxiety. A good example is thunder. Many dogs are afraid of the loud noise for which they cannot locate a source. If you are able, purchase a CD with thunder noises and play it in the background while you are in the home with your dog. When the dog starts to get anxious, tell him NO and redirect his attention. Until you are certain that you have desensitized your dog, be sure to place your dog in a crate so that he is contained whenever there are loud noises.
- Use an invisible fence. An invisible fence can be used to mark the border of your yard, or to border the area where your dog is allowed within the yard. An invisible fence is a great way to train your dog to stay on your property when he is outside, because it will deter him every time he gets near the boundary. The problem is that should your dog get out he will also be deterred from getting back in. If you do use an invisible fence, remember that other animals and people will not be able to sense the presence of the invisible fence. So be sure to clearly mark your yard to keep people from crossing the fence until you are sure that your dog will not attack anyone that he views as an invader.
- Train your dog not to dig in the yard. Dogs like to dig holes for a variety of reasons. If you spend time outside watching your dog, you will quickly determine if your dog is a digger and why he might be doing this. One reason that dogs will dig holes is to find a cool spot for a nap. Perhaps you need to create a shady spot for your dog to lie, or perhaps you need to show him where the cooler spots are. The key is to catch your dog in the act of digging, and to issue the STOP command. Then gently guide your dog to a cooler spot for his nap and reward him.
- Train your dog not to bury things in the yard. Most dogs will hide their possessions by instinct. One of the ways to hide things is to bury them in the lawn. If you would prefer that your dog not dig in the backyard, the best way to stop this behavior is to not allow treats and other items that are chewed or eaten outside of the house. Dogs will rarely try to bury toys, so allow those playthings outside instead.
- Find out what makes your dog tick. One of the best ways to start training your dog is to figure out what motivates him. Some dogs are more motivated by treats, while others prefer extra lap time. When you know what makes your dog happy, you can use that as motivation for good behavior and also as a reward for a successful training session. This is a commonly used practice by professional dog trainers, and although it may take some time to get a handle on what makes your dog tick, it is definitely the road to successful training.
- Teach your dog that nothing in life is free. This interesting training program is best used after basic commands like sit, down and leave it have been learned. The goal is to stop your dog from being disobedient by reinforcing who is in charge. For example, if your dog senses that you have a treat, make him sit before you give it to him. And, if he gets excited when it’s walk time make him lie down until you put on his leash. Never give in – if your dog doesn’t do what you command, you should not give him the reward he seeks. By using this technique, you will be reinforcing the basic obedience commands and showing who is boss at the same time.
In addition to the tips listed above, you should remember that staying firm and consistent are very important aspects of dog training. These tips will give you some solid ideas about how to start successfully training your dog, but be sure that you stick with it so that your training efforts last.
