Just because some dogs are hard to train doesn't mean that there is something wrong with them. Contrary to what most people believe, these dogs are not in any way stupid. In fact, these dogs might even possess quite a high level of intelligence - high enough to let them get what they want when they want it!
Aside from independence and dominance, there are some other traits that might get in the way of your dog training efforts. A dog with a high level of intelligence and determination may also be hard to train. Here are the reasons why:
Smart Dogs Are Hard To Train Intelligence, not stupidity, makes dog training quite a difficult task. Why? This is because most of the hard-to-train breeds are natural born hunters and fighters. They must rely heavily on their brain power in order to survive.
These dogs might be too intelligent for our own good. They can easily see through us - they know our moods and know just how far they can push us around. Intelligent dogs can easily manipulate things and even us owners to get just what they want. You can tell whether your dog is a genius if he or she displays these characteristics:
.Intelligent dogs find a lot of new ways to get into trouble
.They quickly find an exit even when presented with a see-through barrier such as a chain-link fence
.They have the ability to understand your words quickly
.They respond to your commands based on their evaluation of your moods
A Dogged Determination Can Also Hinder Your Dog Training Efforts
Determined dogs can be difficult to train especially when they have already set their hearts and minds on something. Once this happens, say goodbye to your dog training efforts for the meantime - you would find it quite difficult to divert your dog's attention to the exercises anyway!
How would your know that you have a determined dog? Here are some signs that will tell you whether your dog has this trait:
.Your dog's attention might be temporarily diverted by a special treat such as a toy or a cookie but once he or she is through with it, the dog will return to fulfilling his or her original goal. Whether it might be digging flower beds or anything that might be buried underground, munching on your sofa or chewing cords, you can count on your determined dog to get what it wants and have it his/her own way no matter how long it may take!
.Your dog shows a marked obsessive behavior and ignores physical correction.
Dog Training Techniques For These Types of Dogs
If your dog shows any of these traits, training can be difficult but not at all impossible to accomplish. You just need to know what attitudes and exercises work with them best. For example, in working with intelligent dogs, be sure to include a lot of variations in your dog training sessions. Also include activities that will stimulate your dog's brain. You should devise new ways of hiding toys and following trails to encourage the animal to use much of his or her brain power and keep his/her interest in your dog training sessions.
For determined dogs, however, you should do just the opposite. These animals get the most from their dog training exercises if there are fewer variations and more repetitions of the same routines. Showing that you are having fun during your dog training sessions may likewise do determined dogs a lot of good!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Dog Training Tips For Hard-To-Train Dogs
Not all dogs are created equal - some are born to lead while some gladly follows the commands of the pack leader. Consequently, not all dogs respond to training in the same manner - some gladly do their tasks and exercises without giving you, the owner, a hard time while others will test your temperament to its limits.
Hard-to-train dogs are by no means the lesser beings as compared to their more subservient counterparts. On the contrary, these dogs often possess several positive traits that interfere with your dog training sessions. Two of the qualities that get in the way of dog training the most are the animal's independence and dominance. Let's see how these qualities might jeopardize your dog training efforts.
Independence
Independence is by far the most commonly demonstrated trait by hard-to-train dogs. An independent dog can be viewed as a renegade who never needs to please anybody. While independent dogs unquestionably love their owners, their drive to please them is not as strong as those of other more compliant dogs. This trait often gives the owner or the trainer a more difficult time during their dog training sessions.
How could you tell that your dog is independent? Here are some telltale signs: .Independent dogs may exhibit a marked indifference to other people or animals. .They may not like being petted and disdainfully resents grooming. .They may prefer being alone. .They turn away when reprimanded.
However, independent dogs are not at all impossible to train. You just need to know what works with them and what doesn't so that you may get the best out of your dog training efforts. A word of caution - it is a big mistake to apply force in correcting the habits of your hard-to-train dog. Physical corrections such as hitting and yanking will only lead to passive resistance on your dog's part and make your dog training sessions close to impossible. Once your dog takes on this stance, it would be very difficult to make him or her obey your commands.
So, what is the best thing to do in training your independent dog? Utilize the "cookie power"! In other words, find out what rewards elicit a positive response and take advantage of it. With an adequate reward, your dog will surely let you have it your way!
Dominance
A dominant dog is one who explicitly shows you that he or she cannot be bossed around. While an independent dog will simply ignore your commands, a dominant dog will show you his or her discontent in being ordered around.
Dominant dogs are natural leaders. With these dogs, you need to prove yourself first before he or she recognizes your authority or else, your role will go further down the pack pecking order. Some signs of dominance may include the following: .Displays defensive behavior when guarding territory, foods or toys .Shows readiness to launch into a fight .Growls or snaps when they are not allowed to do what they want
Dominant dogs are trainable. Despite their fearsome and irritable nature, you can make them obey your commands during your dog training sessions and beyond. All you need to do is establish your role as the one who holds the alpha position. You need to establish your authority through reasonable actions and you will see that everything else will follow. Once the leadership issue is clearly established, your dog training sessions will go on smoothly without any troubles!
Hard-to-train dogs are by no means the lesser beings as compared to their more subservient counterparts. On the contrary, these dogs often possess several positive traits that interfere with your dog training sessions. Two of the qualities that get in the way of dog training the most are the animal's independence and dominance. Let's see how these qualities might jeopardize your dog training efforts.
Independence
Independence is by far the most commonly demonstrated trait by hard-to-train dogs. An independent dog can be viewed as a renegade who never needs to please anybody. While independent dogs unquestionably love their owners, their drive to please them is not as strong as those of other more compliant dogs. This trait often gives the owner or the trainer a more difficult time during their dog training sessions.
How could you tell that your dog is independent? Here are some telltale signs: .Independent dogs may exhibit a marked indifference to other people or animals. .They may not like being petted and disdainfully resents grooming. .They may prefer being alone. .They turn away when reprimanded.
However, independent dogs are not at all impossible to train. You just need to know what works with them and what doesn't so that you may get the best out of your dog training efforts. A word of caution - it is a big mistake to apply force in correcting the habits of your hard-to-train dog. Physical corrections such as hitting and yanking will only lead to passive resistance on your dog's part and make your dog training sessions close to impossible. Once your dog takes on this stance, it would be very difficult to make him or her obey your commands.
So, what is the best thing to do in training your independent dog? Utilize the "cookie power"! In other words, find out what rewards elicit a positive response and take advantage of it. With an adequate reward, your dog will surely let you have it your way!
Dominance
A dominant dog is one who explicitly shows you that he or she cannot be bossed around. While an independent dog will simply ignore your commands, a dominant dog will show you his or her discontent in being ordered around.
Dominant dogs are natural leaders. With these dogs, you need to prove yourself first before he or she recognizes your authority or else, your role will go further down the pack pecking order. Some signs of dominance may include the following: .Displays defensive behavior when guarding territory, foods or toys .Shows readiness to launch into a fight .Growls or snaps when they are not allowed to do what they want
Dominant dogs are trainable. Despite their fearsome and irritable nature, you can make them obey your commands during your dog training sessions and beyond. All you need to do is establish your role as the one who holds the alpha position. You need to establish your authority through reasonable actions and you will see that everything else will follow. Once the leadership issue is clearly established, your dog training sessions will go on smoothly without any troubles!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Dog House Training
Are you looking for the best possible advice when it comes to your dog house training needs? Are you unsure of what would be the most efficient and painless way to teach your puppy how to be properly potty trained? We strive to give you the best in dog training advice as well as sensible dog house training methods.
One such dog house training method is as follows: For starters you should begin your dog house training as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Proper positive dog training should be started immediately.
Do not bring a new dog home and then wait days or weeks to start training her. This could result in habit patterns that will make dog training that much more difficult.
Another reason why you should start your dog house training methods the very instant that you obtain your puppy is because the dog will relieve itself frequently. It does not yet give any thought to going potty other than based on what it feels when the need arises.
And by all means, with any dog house training, you should invariably expect your new puppy to have a few "accidents" before she is fully trained to go to the bathroom where you want her to. This is just common sense, but you would be surprised as to how many new dog owners will actually yell or get mad at a new puppy for going to the bathroom.
Having said that, I want to give you my number one rule when it comes to dog house training. Get a pen and paper, right this down, and ingrain it in your head: If your dog is not yet trained, then you should never punish your puppy if she happens to have an accident and goes potty on the floor, making a mess.
Not only is it considered negative dog house training, but the practice of punishing the dog for having accidents will almost alway result in what is called "submissive urination".
Submissive urination is when your dog is so scared or intimidated by you approaching her that she will bow her head and accidentally pee in front of you. If you do not want your dear puppy to feel and act this way then please follow the dog house training advice found throughout our website.
One such dog house training method is as follows: For starters you should begin your dog house training as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Proper positive dog training should be started immediately.
Do not bring a new dog home and then wait days or weeks to start training her. This could result in habit patterns that will make dog training that much more difficult.
Another reason why you should start your dog house training methods the very instant that you obtain your puppy is because the dog will relieve itself frequently. It does not yet give any thought to going potty other than based on what it feels when the need arises.
And by all means, with any dog house training, you should invariably expect your new puppy to have a few "accidents" before she is fully trained to go to the bathroom where you want her to. This is just common sense, but you would be surprised as to how many new dog owners will actually yell or get mad at a new puppy for going to the bathroom.
Having said that, I want to give you my number one rule when it comes to dog house training. Get a pen and paper, right this down, and ingrain it in your head: If your dog is not yet trained, then you should never punish your puppy if she happens to have an accident and goes potty on the floor, making a mess.
Not only is it considered negative dog house training, but the practice of punishing the dog for having accidents will almost alway result in what is called "submissive urination".
Submissive urination is when your dog is so scared or intimidated by you approaching her that she will bow her head and accidentally pee in front of you. If you do not want your dear puppy to feel and act this way then please follow the dog house training advice found throughout our website.
Train your dog in your own way
It is important that all dog owners understand the importance of properly training their dogs. Whether you are a regular dog owner just looking for some training tips, or a professional looking to compete in a dog show, the free dog training tips on this website will help you.
If you walk into any bookstore, you will find that there are lots of resources available on dogs and how to properly train them. Despite this, the internet is quickly becoming the best place to get free dog training tips.
While books on dog training may quickly become outdated, the information presented on websites like this are continually updated on a regular basis, bringing you the latest information on tips for properly training your dog.
There are many different systems available for training your dog, and by reading the information on this website, you will be able to find the system which suits you and your dog best. While there are many advanced dog training tips available, you should first be able to get your dog to follow basic instructions like coming to you whenever you call him. It is basic tips like this which make up the foundation of free dog training tips you'll find on this site.
After this you can move on to more advanced techniques, getting your dog to lie down and sit on your command. Once these techniques have been mastered, you will be ready to take your dog out without fear of him giving you or others a hard time.
It is best to use a leash when you begin training your dog for the first time. This will give you absolute control over his movements until he is responding to every command you give him.
When training your dog, you may want to use signals or sounds. Sounds are used the most often, as dogs have excellent hearing and can decipher different types of sounds. Signals are also good, but you must be in the dog's line of sight in order for him to respond to you.
The best method is to do a little of both. No matter what training methods you choose to use, you will find that this website is the best at giving you the most up to date information on free dog training tips
If you walk into any bookstore, you will find that there are lots of resources available on dogs and how to properly train them. Despite this, the internet is quickly becoming the best place to get free dog training tips.
While books on dog training may quickly become outdated, the information presented on websites like this are continually updated on a regular basis, bringing you the latest information on tips for properly training your dog.
There are many different systems available for training your dog, and by reading the information on this website, you will be able to find the system which suits you and your dog best. While there are many advanced dog training tips available, you should first be able to get your dog to follow basic instructions like coming to you whenever you call him. It is basic tips like this which make up the foundation of free dog training tips you'll find on this site.
After this you can move on to more advanced techniques, getting your dog to lie down and sit on your command. Once these techniques have been mastered, you will be ready to take your dog out without fear of him giving you or others a hard time.
It is best to use a leash when you begin training your dog for the first time. This will give you absolute control over his movements until he is responding to every command you give him.
When training your dog, you may want to use signals or sounds. Sounds are used the most often, as dogs have excellent hearing and can decipher different types of sounds. Signals are also good, but you must be in the dog's line of sight in order for him to respond to you.
The best method is to do a little of both. No matter what training methods you choose to use, you will find that this website is the best at giving you the most up to date information on free dog training tips
Friday, June 4, 2010
Dog Training: Do's and Don'ts Of Teaching Your Puppy Proper Socialization Skills
Teaching a puppy or a dog proper socialization skills is vital to the safety of both your dog and other dogs and people with whom he comes into contact. A properly socialized dog is a happy dog, and a joy to be around for both humans and animals. A poorly socialized dog, or one with no socialization at all, is a danger to other animals, other people and even his own family.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is as young as possible The socialization lessons a young puppy learns are difficult to undo, and it is important to remember that the socialization skills the puppy learns will affect his behavior for the rest of his life.
A dog that is properly socialized will be neither frightened of nor aggressive towards either animals or humans. A properly socialized dog will take each new experience and stimulus in stride, and not become fearful or aggressive. Dogs that are not properly socialized often bite because of fear, and such a dog can become a hazard and a liability to the family who owns it.
Improperly socialized dogs are also unable to adapt to new situations. A routine matter like a trip to the vets or to a friends house can quickly stress the dog out and lead to all sorts of problems.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is very young, perhaps around 12 weeks of age. Even after 12 weeks, however, it is important that the puppy continues its socialization in order to refine the all important social skills. It is possible to socialize an older puppy, but it is very difficult to achieve after the all important 12 week period has passed.
There are so definite do's and don't when it comes to properly socializing any puppy. Let's start with what to do. Later in this article we will explore what to avoid.
Socialization Do's * Make each of the socialization events as pleasant and non-threatening for the puppy as possible. If a puppy's first experience with any new experience is an unpleasant one, it will be very difficult to undo that in the puppy's mind. In some cases, an early trauma can morph into a phobia that can last for a lifetime. It is better to take things slow and avoid having the puppy become frightened or injured.
* Try inviting your friends over to meet the new puppy. It is important to included as many different people as possible in the puppy's circle of acquaintances, including men, women, children, adults, as well as people of many diverse ethnic backgrounds and ages.
* Also invite friendly and healthy dogs and puppies over to meet your puppy. It is important for the puppy to meet a wide variety of other animals, including cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals he is likely to meet. It is of course important to make sure that all animals the puppy comes into contact with have received all necessary vaccinations.
* Take the puppy to many different places, including shopping centers, pet stores, parks, school playgrounds and on walks around the neighborhood. Try to expose the puppy to places where they will be crowds of people and lots of diverse activity going on.
* Take the puppy for frequent short rides in the car. During these rides, be sure to stop the car once in a while and let the puppy look out the window at the world outside.
* Introduce your puppy to a variety of items that may be unfamiliar. The puppy should be exposed to common items like bags, boxes, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, hats, etc. that may be frightening to him. Allow and encourage the puppy to explore these items and see that he has nothing to fear from them.
* Get the puppy used to a variety of objects by rearranging familiar ones. Simply placing a chair upside down, or placing a table on its side, creates an object that your puppy will perceive as totally new.
* Get the puppy used to common procedures like being brushed, bathed, having the nails clipped, teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, etc. Your groomer and your veterinarian with thank you for this.
* Introduce the puppy to common things around the house, such as stairs. Also introduce the puppy to the collar and leash, so he will be comfortable with these items.
Socialization Don'ts
There are of course some things to avoid when socializing a puppy. These socialization don'ts include:
* Do not place the puppy on the ground when strange animals are present. An attack, or even a surprise inspection, by an unknown animal could traumatize the puppy and hurt his socialization.
* Do not inadvertently reward fear based behavior. When the puppy shows fear, it is normal to try to sooth it, but this could reinforce the fear based behavior and make it worse. Since biting is often a fear based behavior, reinforcing fear can create problems with biting.
* Do not force or rush the socialization process. It is important to allow the puppy to socialize at his own pace.
* Do not try to do too much too soon. Young puppies have short attention spans, and continuing lessons after that attention span has passed will be a waste of your time and your puppy's.
* Do not wait too long to begin. There is a short window in which to begin the socialization process. A young puppy is a blank slate, and it is important to fill that slate with positive socialization skills as early as possible.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is as young as possible The socialization lessons a young puppy learns are difficult to undo, and it is important to remember that the socialization skills the puppy learns will affect his behavior for the rest of his life.
A dog that is properly socialized will be neither frightened of nor aggressive towards either animals or humans. A properly socialized dog will take each new experience and stimulus in stride, and not become fearful or aggressive. Dogs that are not properly socialized often bite because of fear, and such a dog can become a hazard and a liability to the family who owns it.
Improperly socialized dogs are also unable to adapt to new situations. A routine matter like a trip to the vets or to a friends house can quickly stress the dog out and lead to all sorts of problems.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is very young, perhaps around 12 weeks of age. Even after 12 weeks, however, it is important that the puppy continues its socialization in order to refine the all important social skills. It is possible to socialize an older puppy, but it is very difficult to achieve after the all important 12 week period has passed.
There are so definite do's and don't when it comes to properly socializing any puppy. Let's start with what to do. Later in this article we will explore what to avoid.
Socialization Do's * Make each of the socialization events as pleasant and non-threatening for the puppy as possible. If a puppy's first experience with any new experience is an unpleasant one, it will be very difficult to undo that in the puppy's mind. In some cases, an early trauma can morph into a phobia that can last for a lifetime. It is better to take things slow and avoid having the puppy become frightened or injured.
* Try inviting your friends over to meet the new puppy. It is important to included as many different people as possible in the puppy's circle of acquaintances, including men, women, children, adults, as well as people of many diverse ethnic backgrounds and ages.
* Also invite friendly and healthy dogs and puppies over to meet your puppy. It is important for the puppy to meet a wide variety of other animals, including cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals he is likely to meet. It is of course important to make sure that all animals the puppy comes into contact with have received all necessary vaccinations.
* Take the puppy to many different places, including shopping centers, pet stores, parks, school playgrounds and on walks around the neighborhood. Try to expose the puppy to places where they will be crowds of people and lots of diverse activity going on.
* Take the puppy for frequent short rides in the car. During these rides, be sure to stop the car once in a while and let the puppy look out the window at the world outside.
* Introduce your puppy to a variety of items that may be unfamiliar. The puppy should be exposed to common items like bags, boxes, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, hats, etc. that may be frightening to him. Allow and encourage the puppy to explore these items and see that he has nothing to fear from them.
* Get the puppy used to a variety of objects by rearranging familiar ones. Simply placing a chair upside down, or placing a table on its side, creates an object that your puppy will perceive as totally new.
* Get the puppy used to common procedures like being brushed, bathed, having the nails clipped, teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, etc. Your groomer and your veterinarian with thank you for this.
* Introduce the puppy to common things around the house, such as stairs. Also introduce the puppy to the collar and leash, so he will be comfortable with these items.
Socialization Don'ts
There are of course some things to avoid when socializing a puppy. These socialization don'ts include:
* Do not place the puppy on the ground when strange animals are present. An attack, or even a surprise inspection, by an unknown animal could traumatize the puppy and hurt his socialization.
* Do not inadvertently reward fear based behavior. When the puppy shows fear, it is normal to try to sooth it, but this could reinforce the fear based behavior and make it worse. Since biting is often a fear based behavior, reinforcing fear can create problems with biting.
* Do not force or rush the socialization process. It is important to allow the puppy to socialize at his own pace.
* Do not try to do too much too soon. Young puppies have short attention spans, and continuing lessons after that attention span has passed will be a waste of your time and your puppy's.
* Do not wait too long to begin. There is a short window in which to begin the socialization process. A young puppy is a blank slate, and it is important to fill that slate with positive socialization skills as early as possible.
Being Your Dog's Leader is Key to Training
Dogs, in their natural state, are pack animals. We tend to think of them simply as autonomous pups and don't often consider their immutable core nature as pack animals, however. This failure to take into account the true nature of dogs can make training more difficult. Likewise, understanding what it means to be a pack animal can unlock one of trainings greatest secrets.
Dogs, in packs, have leaders. The leadership role in dog packs is one of great influence. Other dogs in the pack naturally subordinate themselves to leadership and will look to their leader for guidance and instruction.
Of course, domesticated dogs don't travel in packs. Instead, they build a pack based on those with whom they regularly interact. In essence, the owner and the owners family members or close friends become the dogs pack.
This creates a wonderful opportunity for dog trainers. By casting yourself as the leader of your dogs pack, the dog will naturally tend to follow your lead, will naturally feel inclined to respect you and will demonstrate an instinctive need to learn from you. Since a dogs real social structure will always be seen through the innate canine perspective of packs and leaders, it only makes sense for trainers to take advantage of this by assigning roles for both pet and master that will make dog training especially effective.
There are several things a trainer can do to emulate being a pack leader. These techniques will allow your dog to find what he will rightfully feel is his place in your familys social order and will make him substantially more amenable to your training. Some may say it is as easy as as making sure the dog knows who is the boss, but that is an oversimplification. Being bossy is not the same as being a leader. Simply trying to enforce your will on a dog does not necessarily communicate to him that you are truly the pack leader. The talented trainer will understand this and will take specific actions to emulate a pack leader.
Some expert-recommended techniques include:
Consistency
Good leaders are consistent enforcers of rules and regulations. Leaders who too often look the other way are not taken seriously. A dog will notice whether your rules and expectations are consistently maintained and may even test your mettle upon occasion, pushing the boundaries of established behavioral norms to determine who is really in charge. By being a wholly consistent leader, you are likely to establish yourself as being the head of your pack and your dog will then be much more apt to follow your lead.
Respect
Leaders are respected not just as an arbitrary outgrowth of their assigned position but because of how they behave in that role. A firm, but fair leader is far more likely to be admired and followed. One must be firm with their dog when training, but cannot hold unreasonable expectations or enforce their rules with violence or punishment. A good pack leader can still use the positive-reinforcement techniques that have been proven the core of successful training. Being a respectful leader will create a respectful follower in your dog. Their submission to you should be premised in respect and appreciation, not in fear or humiliation.
Interaction
The successful pack leader will interact with his dog in ways that reinforce the notion of the social hierarchy. Dogs, for instance, look for cues from leadership in the eyes. By maintaining eye contact with your pet during training, he will better understand your role as leader. Likewise, it is desirable to occasionally demand your dogs attention while walking, playing or during more intense training sessions. By commanding your dog to heel and to look at you, for instance, you will further reinforce your position as pack leader.
Unlocking the power of being a pack leader can make training much more effective. With roles clearly established, one can avoid much of the struggle others may experience while training their pets. Additionally, by assigning yourself the role of pack leader you create an environment in which your dog will naturally look to you for its guidance. Pack leadership is an essential component to any fully optimized training program.
Dogs, in packs, have leaders. The leadership role in dog packs is one of great influence. Other dogs in the pack naturally subordinate themselves to leadership and will look to their leader for guidance and instruction.
Of course, domesticated dogs don't travel in packs. Instead, they build a pack based on those with whom they regularly interact. In essence, the owner and the owners family members or close friends become the dogs pack.
This creates a wonderful opportunity for dog trainers. By casting yourself as the leader of your dogs pack, the dog will naturally tend to follow your lead, will naturally feel inclined to respect you and will demonstrate an instinctive need to learn from you. Since a dogs real social structure will always be seen through the innate canine perspective of packs and leaders, it only makes sense for trainers to take advantage of this by assigning roles for both pet and master that will make dog training especially effective.
There are several things a trainer can do to emulate being a pack leader. These techniques will allow your dog to find what he will rightfully feel is his place in your familys social order and will make him substantially more amenable to your training. Some may say it is as easy as as making sure the dog knows who is the boss, but that is an oversimplification. Being bossy is not the same as being a leader. Simply trying to enforce your will on a dog does not necessarily communicate to him that you are truly the pack leader. The talented trainer will understand this and will take specific actions to emulate a pack leader.
Some expert-recommended techniques include:
Consistency
Good leaders are consistent enforcers of rules and regulations. Leaders who too often look the other way are not taken seriously. A dog will notice whether your rules and expectations are consistently maintained and may even test your mettle upon occasion, pushing the boundaries of established behavioral norms to determine who is really in charge. By being a wholly consistent leader, you are likely to establish yourself as being the head of your pack and your dog will then be much more apt to follow your lead.
Respect
Leaders are respected not just as an arbitrary outgrowth of their assigned position but because of how they behave in that role. A firm, but fair leader is far more likely to be admired and followed. One must be firm with their dog when training, but cannot hold unreasonable expectations or enforce their rules with violence or punishment. A good pack leader can still use the positive-reinforcement techniques that have been proven the core of successful training. Being a respectful leader will create a respectful follower in your dog. Their submission to you should be premised in respect and appreciation, not in fear or humiliation.
Interaction
The successful pack leader will interact with his dog in ways that reinforce the notion of the social hierarchy. Dogs, for instance, look for cues from leadership in the eyes. By maintaining eye contact with your pet during training, he will better understand your role as leader. Likewise, it is desirable to occasionally demand your dogs attention while walking, playing or during more intense training sessions. By commanding your dog to heel and to look at you, for instance, you will further reinforce your position as pack leader.
Unlocking the power of being a pack leader can make training much more effective. With roles clearly established, one can avoid much of the struggle others may experience while training their pets. Additionally, by assigning yourself the role of pack leader you create an environment in which your dog will naturally look to you for its guidance. Pack leadership is an essential component to any fully optimized training program.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
How Best to Train Your Dog
How to best train your dog is a question that confounds the general public. What makes this question all the more difficult to answer is that even the dog trainers cannot agree on it. The reason for this is that no single training method will work for all dogs. Dogs are simply too diverse along with the environment and other factors. All these things can impact the training where the benefits from any one training method can vary from dog to dog.
There are really only two types of training for dogs: positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is given through taking the dog on walks, giving it attention, giving it a treat, playing with it, giving it toys to play with, etc.
In contrast, negative reinforcement will be things like spraying the dog with water, raising your voice, using a choker chain for corrections, ignoring the dog, taking her toys away, etc.
The goal of either positive or negative reinforcement with a dog is to either encourage a certain positive behavior or discourage a negative one. Through reinforcement, the dog learns what behaviors are good and bad and can learn over time to avoid the bad behaviors and do the more positive ones.
Dog owners should recognize that both methods may be needed for their pet and should not shy away from negative reinforcement. This treatment is not cruel if done in an appropriate manner and can help discourage the negative behavior from reoccurring. Since all dogs are different, some dogs will respond to this reinforcement better than only positive reinforcement methods.
By keeping these two different training methods in mind, you are far more likely to properly train your dog. A properly trained dog can be invaluable in avoiding bad problems down the road and can provide a great pet for your family.
There are really only two types of training for dogs: positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is given through taking the dog on walks, giving it attention, giving it a treat, playing with it, giving it toys to play with, etc.
In contrast, negative reinforcement will be things like spraying the dog with water, raising your voice, using a choker chain for corrections, ignoring the dog, taking her toys away, etc.
The goal of either positive or negative reinforcement with a dog is to either encourage a certain positive behavior or discourage a negative one. Through reinforcement, the dog learns what behaviors are good and bad and can learn over time to avoid the bad behaviors and do the more positive ones.
Dog owners should recognize that both methods may be needed for their pet and should not shy away from negative reinforcement. This treatment is not cruel if done in an appropriate manner and can help discourage the negative behavior from reoccurring. Since all dogs are different, some dogs will respond to this reinforcement better than only positive reinforcement methods.
By keeping these two different training methods in mind, you are far more likely to properly train your dog. A properly trained dog can be invaluable in avoiding bad problems down the road and can provide a great pet for your family.
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