What You Need to Know About Dog Training
When you get a dog as your pet, you need to understand that you have to care for it like your own child. You need to be prepared to take on this responsibility, particularly when it comes to training them. Your dogs require proper training and socialization, and it needs to be done in a quick and efficient manner.
A word of caution: dog training can become overwhelming, especially if this will be your first time training one. Here is some information you need to know to help you get started:
Naming Your Dog
The first step to training your dog is giving them a name. While a name is a personal choice of the owner, it can also make it easier for you to train your dog. According to dog trainers, short names that end in a strong consonant are ideal because they allow for your dog to hear it more clearly. Names such as Ginger and Jack are best.
If you have an older dog, you may think they are used to their name. However, changing their name can also bring positive outcomes, especially if you save them from an abusive situation. Baptizing them with a new name can help give them a fresh start. You have to understand that dogs adapt quickly, so just use the new name consistently, and they will soon associate with it.
House Rules
You should establish house rules early on, as it will help eliminate confusion for both of you. Map out your rules before you introduce them to your pet, and be firm in your choices. Will they be allowed in your bed? Do they have a designated place in the living room? Where will they be potty trained? Keep these things in mind when crafting your dog’s new life.
Crate Training
Like humans, dogs need their own space as well. Assign an area in your home where they can relax and rest after a day of training and play. Crates are an essential tool when you want to housetrain your dog. Once they are familiar with their own space, they will feel more comfortable and welcome. Reward your puppy when they stay in their area calmly. It is part of dog care, as well.
Leash Training
No matter what breed of dog you have, be it a husky or a pom, it’s important to train them to walk on a leash. Aside from abiding by leash laws, it is also useful to ensure that your dog can walk when leashed for their own safety. When leash training them, introduce the leash to your puppy slowly. Don’t rush them to accept it immediately. Once they feel comfortable with it, teach them to walk properly while leashed. Look for a dog trainer who can show you how to train your dog on a loose leash to make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.
Basic Commands
Before you start teaching your dog any complicated tricks, start them with some basic dog commands, such as drop, up, walk, sit, and come. These commands strengthen your dog’s understanding of structure to help them overcome common dog behavior issues. Along with these basic commands, you should also train your dog to refrain from jumping. Dogs will show their happiness by jumping. When they do it, don’t reprimand them. Instead, turn your back from them to ignore. Let them settle down before doing positive reinforcement.
Proof Your Training
The last part of your dog training should focus on proofing your dog’s training. While your dog may behave when they are in a familiar place, will they act the same way when they are in your friend’s house? Make sure to practice training in different places.
Consider all these when training your dog, and you’ll have a well-behaved pet soon enough.
