Taking Charge Of Dog Training - Be The Master!

One of the biggest mistakes that dog owners make in training their dog or puppy is to get lazy with expectations and in working with the dog. Often it is easier to just let the behavior slide rather than addressing the problems as they occur. Ultimately this inconsistency will result in teaching the dog that they only need to do what you say when they feel like it, rather than every time you give a command.

Being consistent doesnt mean that you have to punish your dog, nor does it mean that you have to use punishment methods that are harsh. Generally dogs that are well bonded to their owners only require a gentle correction or a simple No and the dog will cease the problematic behavior. Dogs that are punished either by spanking or by being yelled at are far less likely to be well-behaved dogs as they have less of a bond with their owner. Dogs that are treated with kindness, consistency, firmness and love are far more likely to be obedient and compliant pets.

If your training has started to slide or if you are noting that your dog is not consistently following commands try the following suggestions:

Set reasonable goals for your dog, breaking all commands down into their basic steps and then progressing to more challenging commands. In order for the dog to be able to roll over, for example, he or she must first have mastered the commands of come, sit, down and stay.

Watch for signs of boredom in your dog or puppy. Not all dogs and puppies enjoy repeating exercises over and over again whereas other dogs thrive on this type of training. Do some research on the breed to find out if it is a repetitive learner or if he or she does best when commands are given a minimum number of times. Generally if the puppy or dog does it correctly the first couple of times in the training but then becomes inattentive or non-compliant they are likely bored with the activity. Try changing the order of the commands, completing the training in a different environment or even teaching new commands.

Make time for training every day, even with mature dogs. Dogs that dont have any behavior expectations become less likely to perform when needed, so working a few basic commands every day is important. Try including basic commands in everyday interactions with the dog. For example, when the come to greet you have them sit, shake a paw, or even lie down. Do the same when you are out walking.

Set a training time. While this may seem a bit artificial if you dont schedule training time it will often be forgotten. By setting aside five to ten minutes everyday to work specifically with your dog you will notice immediate improvements.

Provide lots of verbal praise, pets and recognition for appropriate behavior. Give treats randomly and less frequently as the dog begins to respond to praise.

Last but not least, never give into the dog. It is better to skip a training session than to let the dog get away with poor behavior during the session.

Most trainers agree that one person working with a puppy or dog at a time, at least until they have the commands mastered, avoids confusion for the dog. Once the puppy or dog has learned the commands the trainer can then work with others in the house to help them learn how to work with the dog.

Visit Oh My Dog Supplies for unique dog beds and car seat covers for dogs

For more important information from this author, see Rare and Unusual Dog Breeds

Some Tips For the Beginner Dog Trainer
Bringing home your first puppy or dog can be a great experience. It can also be kind of overwhelming because if this is your ...

Potty Training - Not for the Faint of Heart
If youve determined that your child is ready for potty training, its time to take the plunge. Its not easy, but dont despair,...

Leash Training Puppy
So, your puppy is now ready to be took on walks, but what you do not want is your puppy taking you for a walk! Or worse still...

5 Effective Dog Training Essential Often Overlooked!
1. Almost all Dogs love to play! Incorporate Play into the Dog Training Session, use your dog's natural excitement is as moti...

Puppy and Dog Obedience Training
All dogs are going to have to learn some kind of dog training. They need to learn to be obedient to you.Its never too early o...

Why Dog Barks
Dog lovers say that a house is not a home without a dog, which is often justified for the loyalty and devotions dog demonstra...

Training a Gun Dog
Many people enjoy hunting for birds and in hunting it is important for you to have a dog that would help you point as well as...

Potty Training Reward System
Potty training does not come easy with every toddler. Some toddlers need little incentives to make them finally go on the pot...

Is Your Baby Ready for Potty Training
Youre getting tired of changing those diapers, arent you? Its so great to be able to get your child out of diapers. But, when...

Run, Jump, Fetch: A More Agile Dog
Do you want a faster and more agile pet? Are you one of those who would love showing off their dogs skills to family and fri...

Potty Training Facts
Potty training, toilet training, toilet teaching or toilet learning are names frequently used to describe how kids learn to u...

Obedience Training For Your Dog
When it comes to man's best friend, there is no greater joy than having a dog that you not only love, but that is also well b...

Dog Obedience Tip
During training, it is unavoidable that dogs will lose focus and try to divert to other things like playing or simply not to ...

Training Your Dog Is Important For You And Your Family
If you own a dog, then you probably already realize how important it is for your dog to interact in a friendly way with other...

Dog Training-An Introduction to Nothing in Life is Free
As humans, we all know there is no such thing as a free lunch. In fact, nothing in life is free. But have you ever tried to t...

The Truth About Dog Training Schools
When choosing a dog trainer, many people feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of dog training schools that exist. They are of...

Why Basic Dog Training Is Really Important
One of the most important things in raising a dog is basic dog training. It's not only important for you to handle your dog w...

Potty Training Basics - 3 Tips You Can Use Now
I have had the same potty training issues as you are having. I have compiled a few simple techniques that helped me get thro...

Training Your New German Shepherd
Although every dog breed has different personality and behavioral quirks, all breeds have two important characteristics that ...

6 Reasons Why You & Your Dog Should Attend Group Obedience Classes
Education begins at home, but it doesn't end there. It's important that you supplement your dog's home schooling with a good ...