If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!

Rewarding For Good Behaviour

All dogs should be trained in good behavior no matter their breed or age.

It can seem at times like a chore for the pet owner, but the best approach is to think of it as a way of bonding with your dog. Dog behaviour training is very stimulating for the dogs, they love the activity and spending time with their masters.

The positive reward system is the training technique most favored by professionals today, and it is the easiest for most people to master. The food rewards should be small pieces and highly palatable – worth obeying for! They should only received these treats in training sessions and they should be counted in any diet regime to avoid gaining excess weight.

If a training session is to be successful, the treat should be given to the dog immediately he has responded correctly, along with verbal praise and, sometimes, a pat.

Never yell at or hit your dog, as this does not train him, it makes him fear you. There is no use at all in punishing a dog for something that you did not see happen. If you find that the dog has had an ‘accident’ in the house, ignore it unless you saw it. The dog does not understand delayed punishment. It is also totally futile and inhumane to rub a dog’s nose in any accident spots.

Dog behavior training is best conducted away from any distractions, at least in the very early stages, because it is important that you have the dog’s complete attention. When giving commands look at him and speak clearly. Be consistent in the commands, for example don’t say “stay” in one session and “wait” in another. This will only confuse him.

Dog training sessions will require a lot of patience from the owner. Never “fit it in” to an otherwise very busy day. Doing this will result in the session being rushed, and the trainer seeming impatient.

Never attempt to train your dog when you are tired, unwell or angry. Dogs are very sensitive and will pick up on these emotions that are replacing the “good dog” positivity he usually receives at these times.

Only when your dog has mastered one set of commands should you move on to another. The first and most important commands to learn are sit, stay, drop and heel to leash. Dogs love learning, and revel in the “well done” they receive for doing well – so don’t hold back on the praise.

There are plenty of books and e-books on dog behavior training and dog obedience schools and clubs for those wanting more formal assistance in training their pets to be good companions.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter for More Tips, Special Offers, and Coupons.