Dog Training Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

No matter if you have a puppy or an old dog, it makes sense to dedicate a little bit of time training them. Even though there is an abundance of information on the market about how to train your dog, you can’t go wrong with dog training tips from the experts.

1.  Positive reinforcement is really important. Even though there are several theories regarding how to train your dog, the majority of dog training experts agree that positive reinforcement is most effective. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog with verbal praise “good dog”, physical praise like a pat on the head and food rewards. It doesn’t involve shouting at your dog, smacking or punishing them.

Positive reinforcement works since it creates a bond of trust with your dog. Dogs are motivated by rewards especially food rewards.

2. Consistency is essential. If you’re working with your dog on a specific skill or trick then attempt to train them at the same time each day. This helps your pet know what to expect. Most dogs thrive on structure and will perform and learn faster if they understand what’s expected. If you’re training using food rewards, try and train your dog before mealtime so they’re a little bit hungry and motivated.

3. Have patience. Dogs often learn in waves. Sometimes they pick things up rapidly and then the next day it looks like you must start over from the very beginning. Be patient. Start each new trick with tiny steps and be crystal clear about what you expect. Even with the smallest tricks such as “sit” you will want to break it down into smaller steps.

4. Use hand cues in addition to verbal cues. Some dogs have an easier time comprehending and remembering hand signals than they do with verbal cues. Assign a hand signal to each trick or behavior you’re training.

5. Train in small increments. Dogs have short attention spans. Trying to train them for twenty or thirty minutes isn’t going to work. They’re going to become frustrated and lose focus. Instead, keep training sessions to a maximum of five minutes.

Initially, you may choose to train for just a minute or two until eventually your dog learns to look forward to training. Dogs can learn to dislike training. Keeping the training sessions short will help them learn to enjoy the process.

6. Always end on a positive note. Learning a brand new trick is hard work. Conclude each training session, no matter how frustrating, on a positive note. Always give your dog a trick or behavior to perform that they have learned to perform and end with a food reward and plenty of praise.

7. Keep your dog healthy. Finally, one of the most important dog training tips from the experts recommends feeding your dog good quality dog food, giving them plenty of fresh water and making sure they get adequate sleep. A healthy dog is a happier dog and will learn desired behaviors much more quickly.

For more dog training tips, visit How to Train Your Dog.