Dog Training

Training your dog is a gift you can give to your dog as well as yourself.

 

 

 

You see, training has multiple benefits including:

  • Safety because it can save your dogs life by preventing him from jumping out of your car or running out of your yard into the street
  • Higher quality of life enjoyment for them and you
  • Intellectual stimulation
  • Increasing their learning IQ (and your dog training IQ)
  • Enhances your training skills and expertise as a dog owner
  • Broadens the number of places you can take your pet
  • Expands your cooperation and working ability in different situations

For instance, you can teach your dog how to hold back when really excited; how to calm down and wait for the cue from you to proceed; and how to wait. By learning to wait you are teaching your dog to hold back from all impulses.

You will begin to realize how smart they are (which is truly amazing) and likely find they will surprise you in a good way. For example, how your dog is training you is an insight you will discover if you haven’t already. You have taught your dog to sit on command and give him a treat each time he performs this successfully. Then you notice your dog starts sitting and cues you for the treat, thereby training you! Dogs are smart. They know when they have learned successfully something new.

Socializing is another reason that is so important to have a trained pet. Imagine walking down a busy street with your pet walking comfortably on a leash without pulling. Or, like at a farmer’s market, a dog store or pet store on a shopping outing, or other busy place; they need to know certain commands like “leave it” for instance. “Leave it” is a life saving command in case they get a hold of something poisonous or dangerous (like a skunk).

Training adds quality and value to their life

  • Dogs get bored waiting around for their master all the time
  • Take training time with them can be exciting and fun for both
  • Training is a two-way street (ourselves as much as the dog)
  • Positive reinforcement is the best way to train (praise, treats, and toys)
  • Go to classes with your dog where other dogs are as well
    • Ask around, go online, interview and ask what their methods are (should be positive reinforcement, not intimidation, hurting, scare tactics)
    • Personally be there with your dog, watch how they interact with other dogs.
    • Range of $150-200 for about 8 classes
    • Read books on dog training
  • The Dog Whisperer by Paul Owen is excellent
  • Watch videos of Animal Planet (Victoria Stillwell offers innovative ways to train difficult animals)

You need to train your dog (and yourself on how to train your dog) as much as feeding and walking your dog.

For additional training tips, watch for my video blogs on the different training topics to include:

  • To comfortably eliminate outside
  • To sit
  • To lay down
  • To wait
  • To “leave it”
  • To walk by your side on a leash without pulling
  • Have people come to the door without jumping on them
  • Chase me
  • Recall
  • Speak and then quiet

All the best,
Pamela