Top 10 Dog Training Tips

There are various methods of dog training that can be used, and each will vary in their actions and methods. But there are some things that are universal between all dog training programs. Here are ten dog training tips that can be used regardless of what training program you use that will help to make training your dog easier and a lot more fun.

1. Establish dominance. Chances are at some point you've heard the phrase “Alpha-Dog.” Dogs are pack animals that live in “packs” or groups. In each group, there is an alpha-dog that is considered the leader of the pack. All of the other dogs submit to the alpha-dog and follow his lead. It is up to you to establish yourself as the alpha-dog of your pack. Otherwise, your pet may try and become alpha, and will expect you to let them do as they wish. Establishing dominance and making your pet realize that you are the alpha will go a long way in making your dog training more successful.

2. Practice patience. The one thing you will need the most of when training your dog is patience. Chances are, your dog is not going to learn the tricks and behaviors you want them to learn over night. You must be patient, and continue to work with your dog even if it seems it is a hopeless case.

3. Always keep training. With patience, comes perseverance. Some dogs can learn tricks and behaviors in a few days. Others can take weeks. In some cases, you may think your dog has it, and then a few days later they start acting up again. You must continually work at training your dog to ensure that the behavior sticks.

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4. Don't forget to play. Don't let training rule your life. Your dog needs to play as well, and so do you! Spend time each day playing with your dog, and training will be much easier.

5. Exercise your dog. Training does not really equate to healthy exercise. Make sure to exercise your dog routinely to not only help burn off excess energy, but to also help keep them at optimal health.

6. Be realistic in your expectations. Sure, we would all like to have a dog that can dance or climb a ladder. But some tricks are more difficult for dogs than others. Be realistic in the things you expect your dog to learn, and not only will training go smoother, but your dog will be much happier.

7. Avoid bribery. Avoid using excessive treats and rewards to get your pet to do what you want. This makes your dog only perform a task for a reward, rather than because it is what you want them to do. Yes, you should reinforce good behavior with praise and the occasional treat, but do not use treats to get them to do what you want, or you are setting yourself up for disappointment in the future.

8. Be Consistent. Once you establish a training routine and schedule, stick with it. Believe it or not, dogs relish consistency and need a schedule. Keeping to your schedule will help keep your dog happy and help make training successful.

9. Be kind with punishment. Yes, you will need to discipline your dog if they are bad. But discipline in a firm, not a hateful manner. Do not yell or scream at your dog, rather use a firm tone and you will get a better reaction.

 
10. Practice family training. All of your training efforts will be in vain if the rest of the family is not on board. Make sure that all members of the household are using the same training techniques, and things will go much smoother. 

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