Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding relationships anyone could have. But, with that comes responsibility and the best canine relationships are formed when owners commit to training their dog. A well trained dog is one that you can bring with you anywhere without fear of him causing a disruption or hurting another animal or human and a pet that everyone wants to have around. Not only that, but proper obedience training insures that you will be able to call your dog back should he be heading into a dangerous situation. Taking the time to train your dog properly is critical for your pets safety as well as the safety of those around him.
Many owners bring a home a puppy and realize a few weeks into ownership that it is too much to deal with. Sadly, it is the puppy that suffers because of decisions made without first thinking them through. Before you decide to get a new puppy, make sure you are ready to commit the time and money needed for owning a dog. You will need to make time for training as well as time for bonding and playing. Being financially able to care for any pet is important when you consider the level of medical care every pet needs to remain healthy.
Potty training is an essential part of dog ownership. This is also an area that causes many new owners to give up ownership. Every new owner needs to realize there will be times a new pup or even adult dog will make mistakes. This is especially so for an adult dog that has never lived inside a house. Patience is certainly an attribute new owners will need to have a lot of when house training. Potty training can be challenging because, unlike obedience training, you are trying to teach the dog NOT to do something - it takes time and patience.
Puppies can be easily crate trained for learning to go outside for rest room duty. However, making sure you do not leave a pup in crate for too long at a time is important as well. Crating should only be a part of behavior exercises, not as a place to put a pup when owners get tired of dealing with him. Nap time and night time are great times for crating when you are potty training. Since most dogs will not soil their crate, you should keep your dog in the crate until it is time for him to do his business then bring him right outside. When he does his business outside, then praise and treat him so he knows this is the desired behavior. Remember that a puppy has a very small bladder and can't be kept in the crate for more than a few hours at first.
Getting your dog used to being around strangers is important to avoid fear biting. This is an important part of behavioral exercises that should start as early as possible. The dog that is well socialized is easier to take places with you. Many dog parks are becoming available and taking your pet there means you taking the time to get him used to other people and other animals as well.
When training your dog, whether it be obedience training or housebreaking, using positive reinforcement is that best way. Yelling at him or hitting him can cause fear issues that will completely disrupt a dogs attitude towards not only you, but other people and animals also. Training should only include firm but gentle commands. Never hit your dog or slap him with rolled up newspaper during training.
Chewing and biting are a part of every dogs personality, especially puppies because it is a natural behavior for dogs. In most cases, puppies chew due to teething pain. However, the adult dog with chewing issues can be due to boredom or anxiety. The best way to solve chewing problems is by providing safe, long lasting toys. This is especially so for the dog staying at home alone while owners are gone.
Simple obedience commands are essential for the well behaved canine. Make sure your dog knows you are the leader while also applying loving gentleness. This is the greatest way to get the behavior you want while also forming a close bond. Never allow the dog to be in control or your training efforts will be for nothing. Make sure that you are always the Alpha dog and your dog will instinctively want to obey you.
To train your dog to perform a trick or do a certain behavior, try to get the dog to do the behavior first, then reward and praise him. For example, if you are training your dog to sit, then try to get him to sit by taking a treat and holding it above his head, then move it slowly back and saying the command "Sit" - this should cause him to sit as his focus is following the treat. Once he sits then praise him and give him the treat. Repeat this as often as you can and eventually he will associate the command "Sit" with the act of sitting.
Every dog has the potential for being well behaved when the right basic training tips are followed. Taking your time and having patience can help to grow a strong bond between you and your pet. Always keep in mind your dog loves you unconditionally and making sure you never violate that love goes a long way in the bond you form with your pet.