Here's How To Get Started With Training Your Dog

By Bella Smith

There's nothing more irritating than a naughty boisterous dog. Just like a disobedient, naughty child, a badly behaved dog can drive you round the bend. If you have recently acquired a new puppy, you really need to know about the basics of dog training.

Every dog can be trained, despite the fact that many believe that some dogs are beyond training. Sure, some dogs are harder to train because they may have deep-rooted bad habits, while other dogs take to training like a fish to water. In actual fact, it depends on how good the trainer is.

When a dog has been trained, it is secure, happy and relaxed. Every dog wants a leader just like their ancestors who hunted and lived in packs. There was always the 'alpha male' that was respected and obeyed by every dog in the pack. Your dog will look to you to fulfill this role.

Teaching your dog his or her name is the first thing to do. This will enable you to get a response from the dog every time you call its name. This forms the basis to all other dog training lessons.

The first important command is 'come'. Hold a small treat near the nose and firmly call its name, for example 'Fluffy, come!' The puppy will immediately come forward to get the treat. Continue the process by stepping a bit further back each time. When the dog responds and comes to you, lavish it with lots of praise and affection.

The SIT and STAY commands can be taught in the same manner. Be sure to speak in a firm manner when giving the commands. Your dog needs to learn how to differentiate the varying tones of your voice. He needs to understand when you are addressing him in a serious manner.

Be cautious however about how many treats you dish out. While a treat is necessary in the early stages, you don't want the dog to obey commands simply because she or he can get a treat. You want obedience on command, with the reward being praise. Only use the treats while training. Don't give treats in between training sessions, because the dog will get confused.

If you want to enter your dog in shows or training competitions, you should seek some professional help. Join a training clinic where you can learn all the formal requirements that go with dog shows. You can get lots of information online about this form of dog training. - 31866

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