The Language of Training
Sit, Stay
Dogs are not born knowing not to chew on shoes and furniture or not to jump up on people. These are just a few reasons why training is very important. It's necessary for a peaceful coexistence, and is a kindness to your dog. When she responds to the stay command while you wait to cross the street you are keeping her out of danger. Training teaches your dog aacceptable behavior that makes him welcome when you go places. It teaches her a common language and strengthens the bond between you. Plus, it builds your dog's confidence. A trained dog knows what is expected of her, and this clear communication makes a relaxed and happier dog, and a better more enjoyable friend.
Consistency is key.
If one person allows a behavior that you are discouraging then training won't work.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
There are many methods to train your dog. It doesn't need to be complicated. The simple positive reinforcement techniques in this issue are proven methods for teaching the basic obedience commands, sit, stay, down and come, to your dog. No special equipment or skills needed, but patience is your secret weapon. Don't try to rush your dog, all dogs learn at different rates, go at your dogs pace. Proven to be effective are short frequent sessions, 15 minutes per session two times a day, then informally practice throughout the day. Link obedience to thing's your dog enjoys. Next time your dog wants something have her do something for you first. If she wants to go out and scratches at the door, have her come to you and? sit, then let her out. Next time she brings the ball and drops it in your lap, have her lay down first. Before meals have her sit, the minute she sits put the bowl down and praise her. Be creative and have fun. Just make sure your dog responds to you before you respond to her.
Teach your dog at times when she can learn. Do your homework. Your dog has to learn before you can expect her to respond properly. Don't wait until she is jumping up on guests. Homework, in the form of training sessions, is required to succeed.
Dog Fact
Behavior that can be endearing in a puppy may be less so when he is fully grown and at his adult weight. Training is best started early, but it is never too late to begin.
Rewards
Pick one of your dog's favorite treats to use as a motivator during training. Make sure it's small and quick to eat so you don't lose momentum during the training session. Keep your dog hungry for training sessions. A meal can be replaced with quality treats. As your dog becomes more responsive to commands, food rewards will be weaned. Praise, however,
should always be given when your dog responds correctly.
Dog Fact
Always end training on a positive note so your dog looks forward to the next session. If she does not understand a command then go back to something she knows so you can praise and reward her.
"SIT" Command
The "sit" command is the perfect starting point, it's a simple lesson for your dog to grasp.
Stand in front of your dog and place a food reward in the center of your hand, letting your dog see it, then close your hand.
Place your closed hand just above your dog's face, move it slowly toward the back of her head as you say "sit". As her head goes up and back to follow the food she will automatically sit. Make sure you don't raise your hand up or your dog may try to jump up to get it instead of sitting.
Praise your dog and reward him while he is in position- this is very important-so she associates her response with the reward. Repeat this exercise daily until your dog sits immediately at the command
"STAY" Command
This command teaches self-control and is really an extended sit. It's easy to teach once the sit command is mastered.
Stand a few steps in of your dog and give him the sit command.
When in the sit position, say "stay", while putting the palm of your hand in front of his face.
Take a step back, keeping your palm open, repeat the word "stay" a couple of times.
Give your dog a reward and praise him if he maintains this position for a moment. It's very important that your dog gets his reward he is in position. If you give the reward after he has moved he may think he received the reward for moving.
Release your dog from this position with a clap and an enthusiastic "OK!"
If your dog breaks the stay then calmly return him to the position he was in. Do not reward, and try again. Practice daily until your dog understands this command. At this point you can teach him to stay a longer and longer duration.
Take the training slowly. Don't practice duration and distance at the same time. Don't expect your dog to do long duration right away. It takes time for it to sink in. Young dogs need a patient teacher. They don't have lot's of impulse control. That has to be trained.
Dog Fact
Start training in a quiet environment, such as a room in your home. Gradually increase the difficulty as your dog progresses by introducing distractions and move the training to a yard or park. A trained dog responds to commands regardless of what is happening around him and this helps keep him safe.
