Tips to Train Your Dog

Educating yourself about dog training should be the first step you take prior to actually training your dog. Certainly there are plenty of sources you can go to, but at times it just results in information overload.

Canine training isn't really all that hard. One thing to recall is that many dogs just want to make their owner happy. The issue is communication. Of course there is a language barrier, and you need to get your dog to figure out what you want.

Dog training can be summed up with just a few tips. Lets take a look at some of the methods that I have used in order to train my dog, making both he and I happier.

Try to avoid the negatives that often come with training. Hitting or striking your dog, either by hand or with an object will only teach the dog to fear you. A stern verbal NO, is OK, but do not go any further physically, or you risk alienating your dog. Focusing on praise and rewards when your dog behaves as he should is the better way to go.

Praising your dog will reinforce the correct behavior. Loving or petting your dog for acting positive behaviors is of course nice, but experience has shown even better results occur when food treats are given out at the time the behaviors observed. When you really think about it, food motivates humans, so to it works with our four legged companions.

Body language can also influence your pet's reactions. Many canines can actually can actually sense and read your body language before any verbal communication is given. A technique that works well in doing this is to match a verbal command with a particular movement of either the hand, arm, or even leg.

Refusing to give up is the final key to successful dog training. Sure at times it is frustrating. It would certainly be easier to give up, go sit on the couch and watch your DirecTV, but you need to be consistent in your training. Your dog is not going to train himself, and training usually takes longer than you want it to. It is so important to keep this in mind when things are difficult with your dog. Things won't always fall into place, so don't give up at the first sign of trouble.

Training your four legged companion can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. Keeping these brief tips in mind will help you keep on track in your dog training efforts.