Having a dog as your companion can be a true joy. However, youdon't want your beloved buddy chewing your new shoes or going tothe bathroom in the house. Therefore, you need to create a dogtraining plan to help your new puppy or dog understand the rulesof the house.

What things should you focus on in dog training when you wantyour dog to understand the expected behaviors and even some funtricks? Should you take dog training classes or complete dogtraining all on your own? The answer to these questions is thatit depends. Take a look at the following dog training options todetermine what type of dog training you want to provide for yourcanine best friend.

Possible dog training options include: a beginning obedienceclass that you can take through your local human society, dogsupply stores such as PETCO, community recreation departments,and local colleges. These dog training classes can vary inprice, time commitment, and personal attention. They are usuallyaffordable and meet once a week at a community park. It is agreat way to not only have your dog experience basic dogtraining, but socialize with other dogs as well.

If you have the financial resources and time you can hire apersonal dog trainer. This type of trainer may be necessary ifyour pooch is having a hard time in basic classes and your dogtraining efforts aren't making a difference. Before you investin a private dog trainer it is important to make an accurateassessment of your dog training methods. Often times a dog thatis not following directions is the result of the poor dogtraining by the dog's owner.

A private dog trainer might be necessary if you are going toshow your dog at dog shows. You can hire a dog trainer/handleror you can become one yourself. If you do, you must know theproper dog training techniques. You don't want to have Fido jumpup on the judges during the competition so he must be trainedthoroughly and correctly.

You can also search through dog training books, guides, andvarious resources. There are products that will help youcomplete dog training such as special collars and muzzles. Youcan effectively go through a dog training regime with yourcanine if you follow these eight dog training tips.

Tip #1: Many people start their dog on the path to dog trainingsuccess by enrolling them in a basic obedience class. This is agreat idea because you will learn how to teach your do basiccommands such as "sit", "stay", and "heel".

You can teach these dog training commands by using verbalcommands and physical actions. For example, right after you saythe word "sit" you gently push your dog's bottom down onto theground and put them in the sit position. Immediately say "good"and smile. Give them a tasty treat as well. Basically, you wantto do as much as you can to reinforce the action of sitting whenyou say "sit".



Tip #2: Dogs act like absorbent sponges when it comes tolearning proper behavior and tricks. If you do your job properlythen dog training should be a hit. Your dog is ready and eagerto learn proper behavior. They want to please you. Therefore, ifthey aren't following your instruction it might not be theirfault. You might be giving confusing dog training instructions.

Tip #3: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and encouragement.Positive reinforcement such as acting excited and petting yourdog when they do the right behavior help with your dog trainingefforts. It is a dogâ?s nature to want to be close to you andmake you happy. Showing encouragement and praise will help yourdog much farther, much faster in their dog training. Make sureto encourage a dog through each dog training accomplishment, nomatter how big or small.

Tip #4: Food is a powerful motivator when it comes to dogtraining. You will be hard pressed to find a dog that passes upfood or a tasty treat. Dogs are always hungry and welcome anysituation where food is involved.

Tip #5: Dog training should be a gradual process with regards toskill level and learning more complex commands. Give your dogtime to understand new commands. They most likely won't learn itthe first day you teach them. You will have to review thecommands and proper behaviors often.

Tip #6: Have dog training sessions at various times throughoutthe day. Your dog needs periodic training to reinforce theproper behaviors. You dog's attention span can wane, so makesure to keep the training sessions to five to ten minutes long.

Tip #7: When you first start dog training work in environmentthat is free from distractions so your dog can focus on theirbehavior. Once your dog understands the basic commands you cantry to use the commands in a busier environment.

One thing you may find is that your dog is distracted and seemsto have forgotten the commands. Don't fret. This can happenbecause dogs tend to be situational learners and your dog justneeds to work on the commands in the busier environment.

Tip #8: Too many treats equals an overweight dog. Dog trainingis a process that involves tasty treats, but too many of thesetreats can be a bad idea for your dog's waistline. Use smalltreats and wean your dog off treats as they understand thedifferent commands. They will then rely on your praise as thepositive reinforcement for each behavior.

These eight dog training tips will set you on the road to happy,healthy, obedient pooch.



About the author:

Katie, a lifelong dog lover, ownshttp://www.dog-breeds-infosite.com which is the ultimate doglover's resource. Research dog breeds & get free tips on dogtraining, dog supplies, dog health, dog school, dog grooming,dog books, dog products & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.