Engaging in proper dog training can result in a happy, peaceful home for you as well as the dog. The following article has some tips that can help. A few of these ideas may be precisely what you needed to build a lasting friendship with your pet.
When training a puppy to use a crate it is important to take your time and start with only a few steps at a time. When your dog appears to be at ease while inside the crate with the door ajar, you can help him adjust to the crate even further by slowly latching the door and rewarding him with treats fed to him through the spaces between the wires. Start off small, like 10 seconds at a time, and slowly move up the times. If they start to fuss, you are going too fast.
Set a schedule and routine for feeding your dog from the very beginning of your relationship. You can set a firm schedule by teaching the dog to anticipate that the food will be removed within 10 to 15 minutes of the start of mealtime. Your dog will learn to eat in a few minutes instead of going back to the food bowl all day long.
Dogs only have the ability to focus on one thing at a time. Dogs learn by repetition so with continued training, your dog will immediately focus on what you are saying.
Try a phrase that you will stick with to train your puppy when you are house breaking him or her. Each time you let your dog out to relieve himself, use a phrase such as “go potty” so that he associates going outside with going to the bathroom.
You need to show your dog how to properly walk while on a leash. This is both for the dog’s safety and your own, as well.
Have a good time while training your dog. Taking some time to have fun with your dog makes your dog like you more, which means fewer problems when training him. Training is fun for the dog, but you should set aside some real “play time” as well.
Always use similar calls or gestures to attract the dog’s attention. Always start your commands with his name. Once you call his name and have his attention, begin getting him to do what you would like. Dogs will respond instantly when their name is called if they know they are going to be rewarded.
Avoiding accidents entirely is the best way to toilet train a dog. Pay attention for signs that your dog needs to go outside. Pacing back and forth, snuffing and whining are some common signs. Don’t delay if you see your dog needs to go out. Quickly leash your pet and lead him to an area where he can relieve himself. Make sure you do plenty of praising when he does it right. Over time, he will be able to signal to you his need to relieve himself.
Have you considered how much your tone impacts your dog? Dogs can be very perceptive and can pick up cues from their owners about how the owner is feeling. Try using a stern tone to really convey your message to your dog.
It is vital to keep some slack in the leash when you are trying to train a dog. Dogs want to explore new territories while going out for a walk. Because they are so eager, they will probably strain the leash. A good dog trainer will work to discourage this and teach the dog to walk with a bit of slack on the leash.
You can always teach a old dog new tricks. Be prepared to practice patience. A successful obedience training program will yield a much happier life with your pet.