How To Train Your Dog : A Quick Look At The Basics

 

How To Train Your Dog: A Quick Guide to The Basics

Key Takeaways:

• Dog training is a continuous process that strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
• Basic commands form the foundation of obedience training.
• Address behavioral issues with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
• Advanced training techniques add variety and mental stimulation to your dog's routine.

Before diving into specific techniques that will allow you to learn how to train your dog, it's important to understand the basics of dog behaviour:  

Dogs learn through association, repetition, and positive reinforcement. 

Establishing yourself as a consistent and patient instructor is essential for successful training sessions.

 Basic Commands:

1. Sit:

   • Start with a treat above your dog's nose, moving it backward to encourage the sitting position.
   • Use a consistent verbal cue, such as "sit," and reward with treats and praise.

2. Stay:

   • Begin with your dog in the sitting position.
   • Use the verbal cue "stay" while taking a step back. Gradually increase the distance over time.

3. Come:

   • Practice in a secure area with minimal distractions.
   • Use the verbal cue "come" while encouraging your dog with an open gesture and rewarding upon arrival.

4. Down:

   • Begin with your dog in the sitting position.
   • Use the verbal cue "down" while moving a treat to the ground. Reward when your dog lies down.

 

Addressing Behavioral Issues:

1. Barking:

   • Identify the trigger for barking and use a consistent verbal cue like "quiet."
   • Reward silence with treats and praise.

2. Leash Pulling:

   • Use a front-clip harness to discourage pulling.
   • Stop walking when your dog pulls, only resuming when the leash is loose.

3. House Training:

   • Establish a consistent outdoor routine.
   • Use positive reinforcement for outdoor peeing and calmly address indoor accidents.

Advanced Training Techniques:

1. Trick Training:

   • Teach fun tricks like "shake hands" or "roll over" to keep training sessions engaging.

2. Agility Training:

   • Set up a backyard agility course using simple obstacles.
   • Gradually introduce each element and reward successful completion.

Of course, the subject of dog training is vast, encompassing breed characteristics, experience, different techniques and an understanding of dog psychology. But with the quick tips above, you should be able to master the basic commands pretty soon.

References:

1. American Kennel Club (AKC) - https://www.akc.org/
2. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) - https://www.apdt.com/
3. Cesar's Way - https://www.cesarsway.com/