Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Five Simple Dog Training Tips

By Richard Cross Terris

Dog training when broken down into its individual parts is a simple process. Many dog owners struggle though, but using these five simple tips will ensure you have the well behaved dog you've always wanted.

1. Always train your dog when it's hungry

If your dog is hungry, it will be much more interested in the treats you'll use as rewards. Training after it has eaten is a mistake as it won't be as eager to please you in order to get the treats.

2. Never physically punish your dog

If you physically punish your dog, it'll only become scared and wary of you and won't teach it anything. Dogs do have a long memory, and if you hurt your dog you risk ruining your relationship forever. You must teach the dog when it is doing something wrong, but never through physical punishment.

3. Establish yourself as the dominant member of the pack

Dogs are pack animals and because of this need to be shown where they belong in the family hierarchy. Make sure your dog knows you and the rest of your family are dominant over it. There are many ways you can do this, for example always make sure your dog eats after you.

4. Praise your dog when he behaves well

Don't just focus on what your dog is doing wrong, but praise it when it does something right, You'll find praise is often much more effective.

5. Short and regular training sessions are best

Dogs, and especially puppies, have short attention spans. You need to establish a routine of doing training for a short period everyday rather than one long session a week.

Are you having problems with your dog training? An overlooked but extremely important part of dog training is knowing what your dog is feeling. To receive a free guide to dog body language, please click here

DogsAndYou.co.uk

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