Managing Your Dog Effectively
Bringing a dog into your home will make your family very happy. If you’re alone, your dog will offer you warm companionship and unconditional love. But in order to have the best possible relationship with your dog, proper dog training is necessary.
What are the elements of effective dog management? You’ll need to think about "dog toilet training," safe confinement, how and when to feed the dog, and obedience training. All these must considered when you take a new dog into your life.
"Puppy Toilet Training"
One of the first things you’ll need to teach a puppy is how, where, and when he’s allowed to urinate or defecate. "Toilet training" is often the earliest self-discipline that a dog achieves.
But this is not an easy training to accomplish. Depending on the breed of the dog, it may take more than two months for your dog to master it completely. That’s why patience is so important. Be careful not to shout at the dog if he has an accident in the house while he’s being trained. Remaining calm and matter-of-fact will have a much better effect on his willingness to learn.
Safe Confinement
Occasionally, your dog will need to be put into a crate or cage: perhaps for a trip to the veterinarian, or to keep him out of the way when workmen are in the house. The dog crate or cage must be secure, and should be placed in an area that is neither hot, humid, nor cold.
If your dog is young, don’t put anything in the cage that might be dangerous. Puppies are playful, and can easily hurt themselves on sharp or heavy objects.
Don’t leave your dog in a cage for a long time. Just like any other family member, he needs freedom. He wants to enjoy taking a walk with you, or playing with the kids. Confinement should only be used when necessary, and for short periods.
Feeding
It’s important to feed your dog on a regular schedule. Feeding and toilet training are directly connected! It will be easier for both of you if you can expect him to need his walk at regular times.
Many dogs develop the bad habit of begging for unscheduled food. Be aware that if you give in to this begging, it can have a negative impact on your dog’s health. Dog treats should be saved for training rewards.
Obedience Training
Effective dog management may require obedience training classes. Obedience training will be a success if the dog owner and the trainer are focused on and committed to the classes. Their focus and commitment will encourage the dog’s cooperation.
Trainers in obedience training schools are experts in teaching your dogs advanced tricks, as well as basic commands. You can help your dog learn more easily if you attend scheduled activities with him. In addition, make it a habit to practice all the commands very frequently with your dog.
Don’t forget to reward your dog with treats when he does well in obedience classes. Let him know he is loved and appreciated: he’ll have more fun, and be more attentive in classes as well.
