You're the proud new pet parent of a beautiful puppy or rescue dog, and now it's up to you to start their training! Today, our Bonita Springs vets share some key dog training tips and advice to get the best-behaved dog possible.
Dog Training Tips & Advice for Big & Small Breeds
It doesn't matter whether you choose to train your new puppy or rescue dog yourself, hire an instructor, or head to classes, every pup, no matter the breed or size, can benefit from some essential training tips.
Naturally, we see a lot of dogs on a regular basis at our animal hospital, and the best-trained pets respect their owner as the alpha. These pups have also been trained with consistency in mind so that they always know and understand what to expect.
Our vets believe that a good foundation to start with includes making sure your puppy stays healthy and having your puppy spayed or neutered when they reach an appropriate age. Getting your canine companion “fixed” may help to make them less aggressive towards other dogs, calmer, and potentially more open to training.
Establishing House Rules
When it comes to training, dogs respond best to consistency. That's why it's super important to be clear with yourself and your family regarding what you expect of your new pup before you bring him/her home.
You must be clear about what your puppy is and is not allowed to do. Is it okay to sleep in your bed? Is your dog allowed to curl up on the couch? Are there any areas of the house off-limits? Setting clear expectations can prevent confusion and indecision when welcoming a new pet into your home.
Teach Your Pup to Come on Command
One of the first basic commands your furry friend will need to master is “Come!” Always use their name when making the command, and be sure to follow up with positive reinforcement such as praise or a tasty treat.
As your pet grows and learns, try teaching them to 'come' in situations where their attention is diverted, and get them used to responding even when something more interesting than you is capturing their attention.
Be Quick With Treats & Praise as Rewards
To get your dog to respond well during training, always reward good behavior with positive reinforcement. Whether it's a pat on the head, belly rubs, a scratch in a favorite spot, a treat, or a toy, your dog lives to please you and enjoys being rewarded when they get it right.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Just as you would childproof your home to keep children safe, you will need to puppy-proof your home to keep your new fur baby safe and prevent veterinary emergencies due to accidents (and to protect your prized possessions from destruction). When your dog is not under direct supervision, provide him with a safe and comfortable place to stay. A dog crate or pen is an excellent place for your dog to unwind and play with safe, dog-approved toys.
Know a Teaching Moment When You See One
Just as you want to reward good behavior, you want to recognize teaching moments as they happen. Seasoned dog owners will tell you that pups live in the moment and need lots of repetition.
If you are going to enforce a rule or teach a lesson, you must do so immediately after they have performed the action. Dogs do not dwell on the past; they have already forgotten what they did a few minutes ago, so they will be truly confused and unable to associate their actions with corrections or training techniques unless they are completed immediately. Fast, consistent repetition produces the best puppy training results.
Note: Dogs Do Whatever Makes Them Feel Safe or Happy
Many dog owners make the mistake of assuming that their canine companions are capable of human emotions. We understand that you adore your dog and consider him a member of your family, but keep in mind that he is not human.
Dogs aren't vengeful creatures out to upset or annoy you; instead, they do whatever makes them feel happy or safe in the moment, which can lead to both good and bad behaviors. When your dog misbehaves, remember that it was not planned and respond to the behavior immediately. Your dog lives in the present moment, and you should do the same when training him.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.