Dog Training – The Simple Guide

Without proper dog training, you and your dog may end up having problems that you may not be able to overcome. We love our dogs as if they were members of the family — which in many cases, they really are. And when we see their cute little faces and bright eyes, it is so hard to discipline them.

There are many books on training your dog. Check any bookstore and you will see a whole long list of dog training guide books. Some of these books are pretty thick and comprehensive. No one is born knowing how to train a dog and it is not the kind of information that you just pick up in passing. In other words, you need to be taught to teach.

Here is a complete guide to what you need to know about dog training. Before you get into all the details on howto teach your dog specific behaviors, responses and tricks you need to integrate the essentials into your entire relationship with your dog.

Establish that you are the boss. This is absolutely essential. This does not mean being harsh or mean. It means showing the dog a firm and consistent level of mastery. Once the dog understands who is in charge, he becomes a happier creature. The stress of trying to understand his life is removed. Be consistent in your rules for behavior. If he is not allowed on the furniture, making an exception will only confuse the dog. If he is confused, the training will fail. Sometimes being on the furniture, to use this example, will be allowed and sometimes not. So from the dog’s point of view, it’s a 50-50 chance of getting scolded so he will get on the furniture and hope for the best. Don’t be aggressive. All aggression does is teach the dog that being aggressive is desirable and he will respond with aggression. He is so eager to please you that he will emulate you. Dog training should be a pleasant and calm experience. Don’t get frustrated. Your dog does not understand frustration and will get mixed messages. If you are teaching him something and are frustrated he will think that you are frustrated because he is not catching on. You might just be frustrated because he is not responding the way you want because he does not understand your instructions. Keep to a schedule. Sometimes dogs have indoor “accidents” because you did not take him out for a walk so he could relieve himself. If a dog has to pee, he has to ***. Getting cross at him for making a mistake in the house that was caused by you not letting him out on time is very hard on your dog.

Teaching your dog needs to have these factors as part of the overall and ongoing process. Dog training calls for diligence and commitment but the rewards are well worth the effort.



By: Mel M

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