If you own a dog like I do, you know it is not always easy to get them to come when you call them, or use the bathroom “outside”. It not only can be frustrating, but can also be dangerous. You don’t want your dog playing in traffic, or nipping at people’s legs. Training your dog to do what you want them to do is an important part of dog ownership. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
Getting Started
There are a few things to remember before you begin training your dog. The first is that it is never too early, or to late to begin training your dog. Whether your dog is a cute little Jack Terrier puppy, or a full-grown German Shepard, with a little bit of patience, and a little time, you can teach your dog any number of basic commands, or tricks.
The second thing to remember is to always be consistent. Always use the same commands and or gestures so your dog doesn’t get confused. Don’t use the same command for different actions. For example: Don’t use the word “down” to tell your dog to get off the couch, and then use it latter to make him lay on the floor.
Training sessions should be conducted daily, and should last 20 to 30 minutes. Keep in mine that when training your dog, you should try to speak clearly and keep commands limited to one word such as sit, stay, come, etc. Never yell at your dog if they don’t do what you want. Use positive reinforcement instead – when they do something correct, give them a small treat and a pat on the head. Remember the old slogan – you catch more bees with honey...
Teaching the “Heel” Command
It is vital that your dog learn to walk at your heel. This helps prevent your dog from aimlessly wondering around, or pulling you down the road. Begin by attaching a leash to your dogs collar and holding it in your hand. Make your dog stand on the opposite side of the hand you hold the lease with. Begin walking in a straight line while repeating the word “Heel” to your dog. If your dog starts to get ahead of you, pull at the leash gently to pull them back into position. Each time they return to the right spot, praise them and give them a treat. After a while they will learn to stay at your heel, and not get ahead of you.
Teaching the “Sit” Command
With a leash and color on your dog, stand on the side of them and tell them to “sit. When you give the command, gently pull the leash up, and use your other hand to push down on their rump. This will almost always make them sit down. If they do, praise them and give them a treat.
Teaching the “Down” Command
The down command should only be taught to a dog that knows the sit command. With a leash and color on your dog, kneel in front of them and tell them to “sit. Once they sit, wait a moment and give them the “down” command while gently pulling the leash to the floor until they lay down. When they do, praise them and give them a treat.
Teaching the “Stay” Command
Teaching your dog to stay is very important as it can give you control of your dog in public places or when you need them to just stay put. Begin by giving your dog the “sit” command or “down” command. When they comply, issue the “stay” command, and take one step backward. If they get up, repeat the process until the stay. If they stay put, praise them and give them a treat. Continue this process taking more and more steps backward until you are confident your dog will stay when told to.
Teaching the “Come” Command
Once your dog learns to stay, you can then teach them to come. Issue them a stay command and then walk a few feet away. Look at your dog and point to the ground in front of you and issue the “come” command. If your dog comes, praise them and give them a treat.
So there are a few simple tips to help train your dog. Remember to always be positive with your dog, and refrain from scolding them. Be firm when issuing commands, and keep training sessions short. Above all, remember that this should be fun for you and your dog.
