The Essentials Of Training Your Dog
Dogs are highly trainable animals, no matter what the breed. They learn easily, as long as they are well guided by the dog trainer. This is why dogs are used by the police and other protective organizations to detect bombs, trace missing persons, and guard people’s homes. Your own dog is also capable of being trained, whether it is a puppy or an older dog. If you prepare carefully, you can train your dog effectively yourself. Here are some points to consider before you begin.
First, you should know the breed of your dog. Although some basic instincts are the same in all dogs, others depend on their breed. For example, the German Shepherd has been trained for many generations to herd sheep and other animals. Dachshunds, sometimes called "weiner dogs" because of their long, low bodies, were originally bred to scent and flush out burrow-dwelling animals. One breed may have boundless energy and endurance, while another may tire easily. It is important for the trainer to learn about a breed’s inherent traits, and use this knowledge in training the dog.
Training a dog can be expensive. You may get so caught up in the training process that you want to buy every dog training gadget that’s available. Remember that ordinary household materials can be used in many cases, and will satisfy the goals of many exercises or tasks. Learn to distinguish between really necessary training expenses and those that are "frills," or extras.
After you have all the needed dog training tools, you’ll need to make certain that your pet is already comfortable and familiar with you. The relationship of the dog and the trainer is probably the most essential ingredient of successful training. Perhaps your pet is a "rescued" dog, from a local pound or humane society. If your dog is still uncertain about you, give him some time and lots of affection before you try to begin training him. Once he is confident that you are dependable, and you won’t abandon him, he will be motivated to obey you.
Use one specific location for all your training sessions, either indoors or outdoors. The idea here is to provide a training venue that the dog will recognize. He will know that when you and he are in this place together, it means that you’ll be teaching him something, and there is the possibility of rewards. If you do this, you’ll find it much easier to motivate your pet and help him focus on the dog training classes.
Before you begin a training session, be sure you have set aside sufficient time. Interruptions will distract your dog from the task at hand. Your training will be most effective if you stick closely to your schedule.
Prepare your training location before bringing in the dog. Set up all the materials you will need for this session, so you can begin as soon as you and the dog arrive together. Be sensitive to the pet’s needs: for example, if he needs to relieve himself, he’s not going to be able to concentrate on learning a new command.
Have a great "dog training" day,
Dr. Alfonso
