Well Behaved Dogs

Your dog instinctively seeks a master. If you show the patience and firmness needed for the correct training, your dog will let you be the boss. Start by shaping its behavior when it’s a puppy. The time to start serious training is when your dog can concentrate more, at about 6 months of age.

Be Consistent

If possible, the same person from the family should be the trainer. Be consistent in your commands, voice inflections, rewards or corrections, and signals.

It’s all in the timing

Dogs equate rewards or corrections with those actions happening at the time. To discourage a behavior, correct the dog immediately after the action. If you wait too long, your dog won’t understand why you are upset with him.

Reward your dog frequently

Food treats are the most effective training reinforcements. When you first start training, reward good behavior often. As your dog becomes more proficient, you can taper off on the food treats.

Praise your dog

It is more important how you praise your dog than what you say. When praising your pet, use a happy, light-hearted tone of voice. For corrections, use a sharp verbal reprimand. Follow reprimands with a caress to give your dog a sense of security and assurance.

Never use force

A dog learns from the anticipation of reward, not from fear of correction. Do not use a rolled-up newspaper or physical blows to correct your dog. You can pick it up by the loose skin at the scruff of the neck, like a mother dog corrects her puppies. This won’t hurt your dog, but establishes the fact that you are the master.

Keep training sessions short

Puppies have a short attention span. Ideally, the training sessions should last 15-20 minutes a day. Try to practice in an area that is free of distractions.

Be Patient

Don’t expect every training session to be successful. Remember, repetition is the only way a dog will learn. But if you keep your instructions clear, simple and consistent, your dog will do its best to please you.

Have fun with your dog

Schedule a play time after every training session to show your dog your approval and that you appreciate its hard work. This will help to develop a trusting relationship, which is the foundation for successful training.

PLEASE CONSULT OUR CLINIC AT 770-977-9000 IF YOU HAVE ANY BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS WITH YOUR PET.