Dog Training

There are several types of dog obedience training programs available for your pooch. The group training class is one of the most popular ones where your dog will be training with six to twelve other dogs with a trainer at a facility. The main disadvantage of a group dog training class, especially if it is a large one, would be the many surrounding distractions. Helping your dog keep its focus can be pretty hard with the many other dogs around. A smaller class would probably do okay in achieving obedience and results.

Drop-off dog training is when you leave your dog at the dog trainer’s facility to be trained for a specific period (usually several weeks). The downside with this type of training is that the dog owner doesn’t get any training or involvement at all, unless a program is available where the dog owner is also taught the techniques. This is very important for without the proper training the dog owner may not get the dog to follow his commands or, even worse, confuse the dog instead.

The one-on-one training method has been regarded to be one of the best methods of dog training. The trainer basically comes to the home to train the dog as well as you, and probably your entire family. The trainer helps you be in command of your dog, and aids you as well in correcting any undesirable behavior that your dog may be displaying.

In dog training there should always be a balance between praise and discipline. It is very common for dog owners to quickly discipline their pooches, but fail to give praises when the dog does something good or something right. Giving both discipline and praise will help the dog distinguish between right and wrong.

The three stages of dog training include the learning stage, the correction stage and the proofing stage. The learning stage is when the dog learns the desired behaviors. What should be used at this phase is only positive motivational techniques. Effective means for training would be treats, positive praise and toys. Corrective behavior shouldn’t be taught yet at this particular phase. Only when you think that the dog can perform the behavior 100% should you move on to the next stage.

The correction stage is when you correct the behavior of the dog with a leash pop or a “no” when he should have performed the correct behavior (the dog supposedly knows the command already because it was taught to him in the learning stage). You should praise your dog if the behavior is performed accurately. The positive response should follow the negative, and timing is critical. If your dog performs it 100%, then he is ready for the next phase.

The proofing stage is when you have your dog obey at your commands, but this time with distractions around him. Distractions can be noise, light, other people and even other dogs. This will polish your dog’s training to ensure that you can keep his attention amidst all the distractions.

With proper training and discipline, it wouldn’t then be that hard anymore to communicate with your dog.