Dog Training Best Practices

As a dog owner, you know your dog is one of the best companions you will ever have.  While we relish the joy of owning a dog, sometimes things go astray and frustration replaces joy. The number one reason is simple: your dog is untrained/not properly trained.

As a dog owner, it is important to understand a well-trained dog makes the best companion. The benefits of proper training include many things, including being able to forge a stronger bond with one another; creating a more confident and relaxed dog, thereby increasing your trust in him or her; insuring your dog's safety; being more welcomed because of good manners; and perhaps even excelling and competing in specialty training.

Before you embark on training, there are two very important questions to ask yourself and research to be done.

The first is:

What are the personality characteristics of my dog's breed and what type of training do I need to invest in? 

All puppies/young dogs should engage in learning basic obedience, but where you take it from there is really dependent upon your dog's breed and his/her own abilities and personality.

A Basset Hound may not have the motivation to learn and practice the high-paced training of agility, but may excel at advanced obedience or even scent work classes. A high-energy Border Collie is going to be a challenge for you to keep up with and will benefit from agility, dock diving, or other type training to engage their active body and mind.

Take some time to investigate personality traits, energy levels, and even intelligence of your dog's breed, then look at the myriad dog training options to make the best match.

The second question is: 

Are you prepared to train your dog on your own, or do you want/need outside help? With books, videos, and personal knowledge, you may be able to train your dog yourself and reach the level of training you desire. However, it is often better to hire a dog trainer, simply to capitalize on their knowledge, their outside perspective, and a more structured environment.

Visit some classes, get referrals, and inquire about a trial period or ability to participate in a drop-in class to get a feel for the trainer and class. Make sure you and your dog are both comfortable with the trainer. There are too many great trainers to saddle yourself with one that isn't up to standards!

Once you've tackled these first two concerns, you're ready to get started, so here are some essential dog training best practices:

1. Consistency is Key: Consistency is crucial when it comes to dog training. Use the same commands and cues consistently, and establish a routine for training sessions. This will help your dog understand what is expected of them and reinforce their learning. 

2. Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is an effective and humane training method. Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection when they exhibit desired behaviors. This encourages them to repeat those behaviors in the future.

NEVER scold or chastise your dog for inappropriate behavior. Simply ignore that the task was done impropery and repeat the lesson; rewarding the steps done properly. 

3. Patience and Persistence: Training takes time and patience. Dogs learn at their own pace, so be patient and persistent. Break down training tasks into smaller steps and gradually increase difficulty. Celebrate small victories along the way.

4. Clear Communication: Dogs rely on clear communication to understand what you want from them. Use simple and consistent commands, and use body language and tone of voice to convey your expectations. Be aware that your dog is watching your face, your hands, the position of your body. Without meaning to you may be sending confusing or conflicting signals. Whatever you do must be done with repetition and consistency.

5. Socialization: Socialization is crucial for a well-rounded and well-behaved dog. Expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments from a young age. This helps them develop confidence, reduces fear and aggression, and promotes good behavior. (Please get guidance on early food/water bowl training as this is one of the most critical good behaviors your dog must have, as food guarding is the cause of many pet altercations and injuries to children!)

6. Train in Different Environments: Dogs need to generalize their training to different environments. Practice commands and behaviors in various locations, both indoors and outdoors. This helps your dog understand that the rules apply everywhere, not just at home.

7. Use Appropriate Training Tools: Choose training tools that are safe, humane, and appropriate for your dog's size and breed. Avoid tools that cause pain or fear. Consult with a professional trainer if you're unsure about the right tools to use.

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you've reached the capacity of your abilities on your own, or you're struggling with training or facing specific behavioral challenges, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional dog trainer. They have the expertise to assess your dog's needs and provide tailored guidance and support.

9. Make Training Fun: Training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Incorporate play, toys, and games into training sessions to make them engaging and fun. This strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion.

10. Be a Responsible Dog Owner: Training is just one aspect of responsible dog ownership. Ensure your dog receives proper nutrition, exercise, veterinary care, and social interaction. Provide them with a safe and loving environment to thrive.

By following these dog training best practices, you can set your dog up for success and enjoy a harmonious relationship with them. Remember, training is an ongoing process, so continue to reinforce and maintain the behaviors you desire.

An engaged dog is a happy dog; a happy dog is a good dog!