First Steps to Training Your Dog

When it comes to mastering dog training, there are few secrets. It isn’t rocket science. Every dog training tip you’ll hear has been used before, but it might be presented as something new and innovative.  The simplest of tasks for an experienced dog trainer might prove to be quite difficult for a beginner. There are really no special shortcuts.  There are no magic potions or magic collars that can make your dog do what you want.  There is no secret here – you have to spend time with him, loving him and working with him closely while training him.

Some folks appear to “have a way with dogs” in the sense that they can ask your dog to do anything and your dog will obey immediately, but if you try the same thing ten minutes later your dog just stares at you blankly and refuses to respond.  There is no doubt that some people just have a way with dogs and seem to have little trouble getting them to be obedient, not because of some magic aura around them but more because of experience and tone of voice.

One top dog training trip is learning to correctly use your tone of voice.  Your dog must understand that you mean business, but he also has to understand that you are not mad at him.  The dog trainer must develop and consistently use a tone of voice that projects dominance but also comes across with compassion. It isn’t always the easiest combination to achieve.  If you are always shouting or talking harshly at your dog, he is going to get used to it. This will confuse the dog, because he won’t understand when he is being bad, and when his behavior is approved.

Another great dog training tip – use lots of praise and affection when training.  To understand when they are doing the right thing versus the wrong thing, they have to feel a diffference from you, the owner or trainer.  When your dog messes up don’t scream at him, just tell him with a firm tone of voice that he was bad and not to do it again.  Then, when he does it right, lavish him with praise and affection.  Dogs soon learn that doing what they are told results in rewards, and after a while it just becomes second nature to them. Always reinforce good behavior, even after you think the dog has figured it out!

Dog training methods vary, and not all work on all dogs. You have to try different things and see how your own dog responds.  It won’t hurt to keep trying.  The best time to begin dog training is when they are 3-16 weeks old.  This is when they are most impressionable, and can learn the fastest.  What you are able to train your dog to do in these weeks develops habits he will hold for the rest of his life.  Make certain you experiment with dog training methods to find out what works best for your dog’s personality and temperament. Help them get off to a good start in life.