Choosing a Beginner’s Guide to Dog Training
Dog training is basically the application of behavior observation that makes use of the present environmental circumstances of antecedent and expected outcomes to change the dog’s behavior, either for it take on certain tasks or implement certain behaviors in a more optimal manner. It is about making a better and more pleasant relationship between people and their dogs. The main reason why dog training can be such a rewarding experience is because you are able to relate to the animal you have been training as being one with whom you share many commonalities.
It is important to keep in mind that there is a difference between dog training that is strictly obedience and dog training that is oriented towards discipline. Obedience dog training usually involves the use of treats and praise to coax the dog into behaving appropriately, and involves leash training and some form of socialization. This is typically executed by a professional dog trainer.
In the early stages of puppy dog training it may seem like a lot of work but it really just takes a little time and patience. You will find that your dog responds quite well to praise and treats when he exhibits appropriate behavior. In the early weeks you can also practice leash training with your puppy by attaching a leash to him and having him walk behind you. This will encourage him to follow you. In the initial days, always keep a close eye on your puppy at all times so that you can easily spot any potential dangers.
Most dog trainers would advocate the use of operant conditioning for dog training and this includes the use of shock collars. Operant conditioning uses electric shocks as a means of discouraging certain bad behaviors. If the dog persists in exhibiting a bad behavior after being shocked then you should remove the shock collar. Some trainers feel that it is very important to teach a dog the “no” command because it is more effective than other methods.
Dog trainers recommend that you first introduce yourself to your dog before attempting any obedience training. It is always a good idea to be on the same side as your puppy and not seem dominant to your dog. When you are walking your dog, make sure that his leash is slack and that he is comfortable in that position. If you have a female puppy, then you should always keep her close to you and not let go of her whenever you want to pat her on the head. You can also use the same basic rules of socializing your dog to other people and animals when you are walking them.
Training a dog does take time and effort but most dog owners find that their puppy shows improvement in only a few days. A lot of dog trainers would say that the key to a well-behaved dog is to enforce whatever rules and policies you may have set. It is vital that you be consistent and be prepared to commit some bad behavior in order to discourage more bad behavior. You may even need to consult a few trainers before you settle on the one who is best suited for your particular pet.
A number of dog trainers recommend Aversive Training for puppies and they say that it is one of the most effective methods. Aversive training involves using a painful stimulus to discourage unwanted behavior of your dog. For instance, you could apply a small pinch to his nose until he learns to hold his paws or you could rub his nose in mud. Another popular aversive stimulus is a sound, such as a clap or buzzer.
A new skete for a dog is also recommended by some trainers. New skates are recommended to a puppy as early as four to six months old so that the puppy has gotten used to using the leash. In fact, the leash can act as his new skete and the puppy can learn to walk properly on it. New skates can be made of any material and can be made of rubber, metal or plastic. If you decide to make your own puppy leash, check out this article on dog collars for more information.