Dog Training for Beginners
Dog training makes a person a responsible pet owner. It can start at any stage since dogs are always learning. Learning to communicate with dogs helps to get along with them. Dog training instills confidence and provides mental stimulation to the dogs.
Dog training takes time and effort. For first-time dog owners, hiring a private trainer or enrolling in training classes can help. For instance, puppies may start in puppy kindergartens, while older ones may join obedience classes. Limiting puppy classes to eight to 10 dogs per instructor ensures that each puppy receives enough attention. During these classes, the owner will learn basic commands such as ‘come,’ ‘sit,’ ‘down,’ and ‘stay.’ They will also learn how to walk a dog with a leash.
Initially, you should start with basic commands. This is especially true for those not enrolling in classes. It is important not to overwhelm the dog at first. You can start with short sessions and simple commands such as ‘sit.’ Later, the sessions can gradually increase to longer durations and include complex commands such as ‘get it boy,’ after achieving basic training.
A dog is a household member that should observe set boundaries. These include not licking people, staying off furniture, or jumping on people. A dog owner should clearly define such boundaries in ways that a dog can understand. Importantly, training should ensure a dog understands specific commands so that such boundaries are easily enforceable.
Positive reinforcement is a highly effective dog training method. Dog owners should reward their pets when they obey their commands. A reward may include food and toys. It also involves praising the dog every time. In turn, dogs will respond to human instructions when they know that a reward awaits them. Additionally, offering rewards makes training fun for both the dog and the owner.
Animal behaviorists claim that harsh treatment may work once or twice, but, in the end, it is inhumane. Positive reinforcement lets a dog know that the owner is pleased with them, making them repeat such behavior.
When handing out treats, you should do so in small portions. Bite-sized dog treat portions are easy to swallow right away. Hard and crunchy ones may take time to chew and swallow. You should reward your dog with treats immediately after the desired behavior. The faster it happens, the easier it is for the dog to understand what you teach them. Also, handing treats when a dog doesn’t deserve them is not advisable. A dog will work harder to get a treat than when he knows he will still get it whether he pleases you or not.
Training times with no distractions ensure no interruptions or feeling rushed. You may opt to switch off their cellphone or designate another person to answer the doorbell. This gives enough time to focus on the dog. Picking a large room with enough space to walk around is a good start.
After a dog figures out what you want them to do, outdoor training in a fenced area should follow. However, keeping a leash will help in an unfenced area. Indeed, distractions may interrupt the dog. Therefore, when training outdoors, you should get creative enough to ensure street noises and moving vehicles don’t capture the dog’s attention.
