Expert Guidance: Common Training Tips for Dog Owners

Who Enjoys Being Forced?

In our childhood fantasies, our dogs possessed innate knowledge and we joyfully gave them commands. However, the reality of training is far more challenging, both physically and psychologically. Mere command-giving is insufficient; we must instill in our dogs the habit of obeying. Coercion, in the literal sense, is unfavorable as nobody appreciates being forced. Instead, I prefer the term "teach."

I'd be glad to hear about the general principles you follow in your daily life with your dogs. Please go ahead and share them with me.

The first principle I adhere to is avoiding punishments or scolding when working with my dogs. In our family, we firmly believe that shouting or punishing the animal is not an acceptable approach. Instead, we rely on the effectiveness of positive reinforcement. For instance, when our dog gives a paw, we reward them with a delicious treat. If they bring a stick, we give them a gentle scratch behind the ear. Furthermore, it's essential to offer praise not only for the commands they've already learned but also for any progress made in the learning process. Even something as simple as not peeing on the pillow warrants a "good boy" and acknowledgment.

1. Avoiding punishments or scolding, instead, rely on the effectiveness of positive reinforcement.

The second principle I follow is to avoid making exceptions to the rules. Exceptions, in reality, only create confusion and disrupt the dog's understanding of what is expected. If we establish a rule, such as not allowing our dogs to put their paws on the table, it must apply consistently, regardless of our mood or any other factors. The same rule applies to all family members. It's similar to raising children: if one parent disapproves of late-night outings, the other parent should also enforce the same rule. Otherwise, it can lead to chaos, disregard for boundaries, and an environment of inconsistency.

2. Avoiding making exceptions to the rules.

The third principle I embrace is being mindful of my own behavior. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense changes in our tone of voice, among other cues. This sensitivity can greatly facilitate the training process. It is important to always approach training sessions with a positive mood. This benefits both you and your furry student, as it fosters a more productive learning environment. Trying to train a dog when feeling irritated or upset is unlikely to yield positive results.

Moreover, it's crucial to recognize that training is a collaborative effort, with equal responsibility for both the dog and the owner. Merely sending the dog away for training without addressing your own behavior will not lead to lasting success. The goal should be to train a dog that listens to you, not solely to a trainer. Therefore, personal behavior adjustments and consistency are vital aspects of the training journey.

3. Being mindful of my own behavior.

Patience is a crucial virtue when it comes to dog training. Each dog responds differently to training methods, so if a particular approach isn't working, it's essential to explore alternative strategies. Remember, failure is an opportunity to try a different approach. Even dogs like Brain, who may not possess literal half of a brain, have shown incredible abilities. Despite any challenges, Brain was able to excel and achieve an outstanding result, such as passing with an A grade. So, stay patient, be open to trying new techniques, and celebrate the unique progress of your furry companion.

4. Patience is a crucial virtue when it comes to dog training.

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