Obedience Training For Dogs – What Are My Options?
When it comes to obedience training for dogs, there are a number of methods available. But which method will suit you and your dog? Within this article, I am going to discuss some options to help you make the right choice.
Without obedience training, many dogs simply don’t know how to behave. Thankfully most dogs thrive with solid, predictable routines and boundaries. Well trained dogs are generally happier and healthier and so are their owners. It can also help a fearful dog gain confidence.
Yes, it’ll take work but the results will certainly be worth it. Training sessions can also be a great opportunity to bond with your dog.
Depending on your schedule, the method you choose can vary greatly, so here are some options for obedience training for dogs:
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is part of the foundation of any good obedience training program.
Using positive reinforcement basically means rewarding your dog with treats and praise when they engage in proper behavior and ignoring the negative behaviors you want to curb. It does not require speaking in a harsh tone or using physical intervention.
You can get your whole family involved in the training process to speed up results. Under your supervision, even your children can grab a handful of healthy dog treats and reward your dog when he acts correctly.
When your dog receives a treat for his positive behavior, he’s more likely to repeat this behavior again. Most dogs will do anything to get their paws on a treat!
Instead of punishing a dog, you will instead simply reward them with treats and praise. For example, if your dog urinates in the house, start using positive reinforcement every time they go to the bathroom outside.
With consistency and patience, positive reinforcement can be an excellent way to teach your dog new things, improve obedience and have fun together at the same time.
Clicker Training
Clicker training is a slightly more advanced method of positive reinforcement and is a great way to teach your dog new behaviors, tricks and improved obedience. With this training learning technique, you train your dog with the sound of a click when they perform the correct behavior. Then, you immediately give your dog a treat or anything else to reward them.
Soon your dog associates the sound of the click with the reward. Eventually, your dog will repeat the behavior it was performing when it heard the click.
These clicker devices are ordinarily available at pet stores and are inexpensive.
Once your dog learns the positive effects of the clicking sound, the clicker itself acts as a conditioned reinforcer.
You can start training your dog to do specific things using this method. Make sure you choose a nice, quiet, and familiar place away from any outside distractions, so that you and your dog can concentrate on the task at hand.
Many dog trainers use this method as well, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with this technique.
Hire a Dog Trainer
Choosing the right dog trainer is a huge decision and not one to be taken lightly. Some trainers even offer obedience courses online like SpiritDog Training or Brain Training for Dogs.
You have to consider not only the welfare of your beloved dog, but also the costs involved.
There are many trainers out there making claims that they can’t support, and sifting through these people can be quite a job in itself.
Of course if you have friends or family that have already used a particular service or individual then this can certainly give you a nice head start.
A good dog trainer should be interested to hear your thoughts and concerns as well as your dog’s history, characteristics, weaknesses and strengths.
They should learn about your dog, conduct behavioral analysis and include you in the training.
It’s not difficult to teach a dog to sit or come to you using positive reinforcement, but it takes advanced knowledge to modify negative behavior and traits such as separation anxiety, excessive barking, digging or aggression.
Always confirm that the trainer has liability insurance before you start your sessions.
You should have peace of mind that you are protected should anything go wrong.
eBooks
Can you teach your dog obedience through reading ebooks?
The answer is yes.
There are a large number of ebooks available in many different niches, so you’ll find some that suit your dog’s needs.
Be sure to do plenty of research and find one that is written by a respected author with a good track record of successful techniques and skills.
Many beginners start their journey by reading books and ebooks.
If you find the techniques are working, then you may not need anything more.
However, if they do not work, then it could be the time to consult a professional dog trainer.
Teaching a dog new skills and obedience will always take time and dedication, so keep this in mind.
Don’t worry if your dog doesn’t grasp it straight away.
Your dog will want to learn and please you if he feels happy and loved in the process.
Positive reinforcement training is also a great opportunity to bond with your dog, so enjoy it, persevere and succeed together.
Conclusion
I hope you have learned some different methods of obedience training for dogs. Once you have chosen your method, stick to it and have fun teaching new skills to your dog.
