Dog behavior training is something that starts from the moment your dog becomes a member of your family. Whether your dog is a mature rescue dog or a new puppy it is never too early to start your training program. Simple tasks such as sit and stay, knowing its name when called can be learnt quickly from basic patience and lots of praise. Once you have mastered this it’s time to continue with more essential training.
Different breeds have different instincts; this is where a dog breed selector is in valuable. Even if your dog is a cross breed it will have characteristics from is genealogic family. Size, hair type, features such as eyes and ear shape will all give away tell tale signs of your dog’s parentage. Just like us these are the making of its character a little from both parents. Just because a puppy is a cute ball of fluff does not mean it will stay like that. Dog behaviour training can never be started too early. Some dogs are easily trained, and little is required from them other than house training, and being cute. Simple tasks such as walking together or bed time can be a nightmare without the proper training.Basic house rules are a must from day one. For instance you may or may not wish your dog to have access to the bedrooms at its will. You may not want your dog to race you to the door when somebody calls. You may not want your dog to bark at the least noise.
Some breeds of dog can be more stubborn than others and require more knowledge on how the dogs mind works. Reading books on dog behaviour can be a great benefit to help you understand how the dogs mind and pack instinct work. Sometimes you need to think of yourself as the Alpha pooch to gain leadership over your dog.
There are many methods of dog behavior training. The trick is to find the one that suits both your dog and your exceptions. Home training is always the best method where possible. Training aids and programs are easily available. Clicker training is where the dog is primarily trained to respond to the noise of a small hand held clicker as a positive action. This is then associated as a reward, rather than verbal praise or a food treat. Every time the dog obeys a command it associates with the sound of the clicker as a reward. Another method is alpha training where your pooch looks upon you as the leader of the pack. This requires the owner to always be in charge and never default decision making to the dog.
There are many interactive training classes that you can attend with your pooch. These classes are usually privately run. Details of recommended ones in your area can be got from your local kennel club. Your dog does not have to be a pedigree to attend but up to date vaccinations certs are usually required. These are inexpensive and good social fun for both owner and dog. More intensely are training schools, these are best to be recommended by your vet or another reliable source. Most of these require you to leave your dog with them over a period of time. A lot of research should be done on this behavior training before leaving your dog unattended with anybody.
And for the total dog behavior training enthusiast there are many more options. Whether you want your dog to sit and beg or jump through hoops, there is always agility training. Almost all local areas have agility clubs, and the good news is a dog of any breed can take part in this. So whatever you decide suits you and your dog remember you can never start too early. If at first you don’t succeed try and try again. Read and Research as much as you can on the type of training that suits you both. Good luck.
