Dog training is basically the application of behaviour analysis that applies the natural historical antecedents and current consequences of behaviour to alter the dog’s behaviour, either to help in certain desired behaviours or undertake certain duties, or for it to simply engage actively in modern domestic society. The term dog training therefore covers a wide range of approaches including behavior modification, motivation, negative reinforcement, and positivity. This can be quite confusing and many people have their own opinion on what is good dog training and what is not so good dog training. However, the fundamentals of dog training are simple, and any successful trainer will implement them as doing so will ensure your dog learns the correct behaviour without too much trouble or annoyance. For example, the main rule of effective dog training is to never use violence or force on the dog, because this will teach it to fear humans and be timid around them. A happy and contented dog is one that obeys humans without fearing or dreading them, and this is easily achieved if you just train it properly.
There are several different types of dog training methods that can be applied, and each one has their own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, when deciding on what type of training you would like your dog to undergo, you must think carefully about all the possible outcomes you might want, and then look at how each method is likely to achieve them. The most popular training methods include positive reinforcement, mixed training styles, and balance training techniques. Positive reinforcement is probably the most popular, because it is very easy to understand and apply, as the reward given to good behaviour is food or praise, which is often a very appreciated treat. This also works well if your dog already has an inherent lack of self-control, because the food can be given in small amounts at a time, which encourage him or her to repeat the behaviours that pleased you.
On the other hand, mixed training styles involve both positive and negative reinforcement, and are more controversial, as some dog trainers feel that they encourage negative behaviour rather than good behaviour. However, they do seem to be more widespread than positive reinforcement, and so many dog owners may choose a mixed training method. Some modern dog training books and DVDs also teach dominance behaviour, which has also been mixed in with the traditional dominance style. However, some modern dog training methods such as reward based training and dominance based training, while suitable for some situations, may not be right for all dogs, and the best advice is always to check with your vet.
One of the newer dog training techniques that is gaining in popularity is called operant conditioning or Positive Reinforcement Training. It is based around rewarding good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. For example, a small dog that climbs your fence can be rewarded with a treat every time he stays within the boundary line, and he gets a treat each time he stays within the fence line but goes out of it. He doesn’t get a treat each time he brings the dog safely back inside, but rather a small reward or a pat on the head. This helps the dog to associate his good behavior with something, and therefore comes to think of it as a “reward”. If the dog works hard to bring you back inside, then the behavior will be reinforced over again.
The next dog training tip for dog owners is to make sure that your dog is getting plenty of socialization. A lot of dog owners either don’t socialize their animals or they socialize them in the wrong ways. For example, if your dog is used to being on a leash, then going out in public with him can be pretty scary for him. So, if you are thinking of taking your dog to the park, consider taking him to a dog park where he can be supervised by an experienced trainer or volunteer.
During the first couple of days at a dog park, the trainer should set up the environment so that the dog will be comfortable and will learn basic obedience quickly. All dogs learn at different rates, so take your time with training and practice. One trainer has said that the key to a dog’s success in any training program is that you must keep the dog motivated. Dogs learn best by encouragement than by fear or punishment. Also, when dogs learn to sit, they learn to share, and this promotes socialization and cooperation in your household.
If you are thinking about taking your pooch to a dog training class, you may want to try to attend one yourself to see how well your furry friend does. If he doesn’t seem to learn much in the class, ask the trainer if there are any free after-care sessions. Some trainers offer private sessions for couples or families. If you are planning a vacation, look into vacation packages for trainers in your area so that you can bring your pup along. If you cannot find a training class near you, there are plenty of doggy boot camps and obedience schools located all over the country. These classes are usually pretty small, but some trainers specialize in just one breed, such as working dogs.
Taking your pet to a basic dog obedience training class will teach him basic obedience skills, and will also teach him how to behave around other people and animals. Once he begins to learn what behavior is acceptable, you will both be happier. Your pet will not have to worry about hitting other dogs on the leash anymore, he won’t have to be aggressive towards other people, and you will both enjoy having a wonderfully behaved pet around your home.