By Dr Julie Summerfield
Training is the key to having a well mannered, obedient dog, and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It involves teaching your dog the way you want him to behave, and opens up lines of communication, so that you understand each other.
You should begin training as soon as you get your new dog, and remember it’s never too late. You CAN teach an old dog new tricks! It is, however, easier to start when they are young, as there may be less bad habits to correct.
All training should employ kind motivational methods. The use of food rewards and praise will reinforce good behaviour, and ignoring unwanted behaviour helps give your pup a contrast. He gets a lot more out of doing what you want! Sometimes discipline is needed to point out your displeasure with certain behaviour. To get your dog’s attention, use a firm voice or a clap of the hands then ask the dog to sit or do something you know he can do, and reward that behaviour. You are redirecting the behaviour to a more positive one.
Make training sessions short and sweet- about 10 minutes at a time, to avoid losing your dog’s concentration. Always end on a high, and try to make training fun-your dog will enjoy learning. You should teach the basic commands like sit, stay, come and off.
Start by trying to get your dog to do what you want. To teach sit for example, use a food treat held just above the tip of the nose, if you move it up the bridge of the nose, the dog will naturally sit to follow it. Give the one word command “sit”. When the dog sits, praise and give the treat. Repeat this as many times a day as you can, just for a few minutes each time. When you have this perfected, you can move onto the next command.
Training establishes you as the leader. When your dog obeys your commands he is showing respect for you as the top dog. You need to be a firm but kind leader to earn respect and trust. Your dog will become more confident as he learns. He is gaining an understanding of what his job is, and dogs love to please their owners!
Training will help a lot when dealing with specific behavioural problems. Most of these problems are in fact perfectly normal canine behaviours – such as chewing, digging, and barking, but we don‘t find them acceptable in our homes! With basic obedience, we can redirect these behaviours to more acceptable ones.
It is important for training to be consistent avoid confusion. Keep commands simple e.g. Rover-sit, and make sure everyone uses the same. Ensure rewards are given at the time so the dog associates the command with the action. Equally, if using any reprimands, it is vital that you do it instantly after the bad behaviour, or during-otherwise the dog will not understand. If you nag the dog, or constantly shout at it, the reprimands will become meaningless and create anxiety.
When looking for a training school or club, make sure they use kind, motivational methods. Go along and see what you think-Do the dogs look like they are having fun? Try and find somewhere non-competitive and a place that will give information and advice to help guide you.
Talk to your vet, Canine Council, AVA or local council to find out about dog training schools in your area – HAPPY TRAINING!
© Copyright VCA http://www.dogmatch.com.au
Please note: This article was written in 2001. Dog training methods and ideas change frequently, please consult your vet or trainer to discuss whether this article would help your dog.
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Dog training: the basics
© Copyright VCA http://www.dogmatch.com.au
Please note: This article was written in 2001. Dog training methods and ideas change frequently, please consult your vet or trainer to discuss whether this article would help your dog.