Dog Training

Some form of basic dog training is clearly necessary to prevent any potential problems with the law, or noise abatement notices. This form of elementary dog training is necessary because dogs do not automatically behave in a way that is necessary for them to live as domestic pets in our modern society. Often it is also necessary to train them to live in harmony with other pets in the same home.

There are five basic commands that are taught to dogs at the start of their obedience training. The most used is probably 'Recall', It is absolutely vital that this part of the training is done correctly. If the dog has behaved incorrectly, and a correction is necessary, then the handler or trainer must go to the dog, not the other way round. If the dog is summoned to the handler, and comes correctly to the handler in response, then if the dog receives correction, it will assume that the immediate preceding behaviour, the coming to the handler, was the error. This is an extremely serious mistake. If the handler goes to the dog, the correct impression will be conferred. Other basic behavioural commands include Sit, Stay, Down, and Heel.

It is absolutely vital that the correct form of correction is used. No form of violence or force, which will induce a state of fear, or even physical harm, can even be contemplated. The usual standard used by experienced handlers is to use the least amount of force necessary to inhibit the behaviour that needs to be controlled. Often the restraint is applied through means of the collar, with a short restraining motion being applied. This should be enough to gradually train the dog into knowing that that behaviour is unwanted, without leaving any kind of mental scarring.

Most basic dog training classes do not have the aim of training the dog directly, rather the aim is to train the dog owner to train the dog themselves. It is possible, of course, to send the dog away to a training school. But even in this case the owner will still need to learn what has happened at the training centre, so they can continue the work afterwards.

The best and most effective form of basic dog training is when the owners and dogs attend together. This has the one massive advantage of allowing the dog to take commands from the person who will be issuing them in the long term. What is even better is if everyone who is going to be involved in that dog's future plays a part in the instruction. This way the dog becomes accustomed to the voices and styles of all the potential handlers. This form of basic training, done well, can be the foundation of a lifetime of safe enjoyment of your dog, and for your dog.