It may seem that training your dog is a huge commitment. It takes patience and consistency. Training can be a rewarding part of being a fur parent, whether you are a new dog owner or just refreshing your old routines. Knowing how to train your dog helps them learn how to navigate the world and understand it. It goes beyond teaching them basic commands such as “sit” and “stay”. Well-trained dogs are more likely to be able to enjoy their freedom and join you on off-leash walks or in public places, as you can trust that they will stay in control. This makes it easier to handle everyday situations, such as vet visits, greeting new people or other dogs, and meeting them.
Dogs are curious, intelligent animals who thrive on mental stimulation. Structured training sessions are a great way to keep your dog interested and stop boredom-driven behaviour like excessive barking or chewing. As you develop a clear communication with your dog, you will build confidence and trust. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to begin. We have plenty of tips for beginners to help you and your dog succeed.
What are the benefits of training my dog?
By teaching your dog basic obedience, such as “sit”, “wait” and “come on command”, you can give them the freedom they need to live their lives safely. Well-trained dogs can be off-lead and accompany you to outings and meet family and friends while remaining under control. Both you and your dog will gain confidence.
Training also helps to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Most dogs are naturally curious and intelligent. Regular training sessions reduce boredom and unwanted behaviours such as chewing or barking.
How do dogs learn?
The best way to train a dog is through rewards. They are more likely to repeat a behaviour if they receive a reward, such as food, praise, or a toy. Positive reinforcement promotes learning.
Discovering what motivates your pet is important. Some dogs will respond to small treats such as cheese or cooked beef, while others might prefer their favourite toy or a little extra affection. The more valuable your reward is, the more eager and engaged your dog will become to learn.
Training Tips For Dog Owners
1. Use Positive Reinforcement Techniques
Vets and dog trainers agree that positive reinforcement is the best method of training dogs. This method rewards your dog’s good behaviour, such as when they obey a command or remain calm, rather than punishing them for their mistakes. Treats, toys or verbal praise can be used as rewards. They help to build a positive association between desired behaviours and the reward.
It is equally important not to unintentionally encourage bad behaviour. If your dog is barking to get attention or jumping up to greet, then responding to or engaging with them will reinforce that behaviour. You should ignore unwanted behaviours and only reward calm, well-mannered dogs. This will teach your dog that only good behaviour is rewarded, and bad behaviour is not.
2. Improve Your Communication with Your Dog
The training you do with your dog will improve the communication between you and him. By using consistent commands, cues and body language, you can develop a shared vocabulary that will help your dog better understand what you want from them. This mutual understanding is the basis of a trusting relationship between you and your dog.
It is important to enrol in training classes because they allow you to spend structured time focusing on your dog’s learning style, behaviour, and temperament. Training sessions allow you to discover what motivates each dog, their reactions to different situations and how you can adapt your approach in order to meet the individual needs of your dog. Communication becomes clearer and effective as you get to know your dog better.
3. Potty Train Your Dog
Potty-training is an important part of raising well-behaved, hygienic dogs. It’s essential to create a routine that is consistent in order to prevent accidents inside and keep the shared space clean. Start by taking your pet outside every 30 to 60 minutes, especially right after eating, napping, or playing. Allow your dog five minutes to get used to the new environment and to find a good spot. Reward them immediately with praise and treats when they find the correct spot.
You can make the process easier and quicker by taking your dog to the same place each time. You can redirect your dog outside if you see them trying to use the bathroom indoors, or in an unsuitable place. Simply say “no” or “stop” and calmly stop them. With consistency and positive reinforcement over time, your dog will develop good potty-training habits and learn the proper place to relieve himself.
4. Basic Obedience Training for Dogs
The foundation for a happy and well-behaved dog is basic obedience. Teach your dog essential, simple commands to improve your communication with your pet and make your everyday life more enjoyable. There are many commands that your dog will eventually learn. However, most training programs start with the four basic ones:
Sit: This is a classic starter command that helps calm your dog down and redirect his attention. This command is useful for many situations, including waiting at the front door, politely introducing guests, and staying still at the veterinarian. This is often the first command that’s taught, because it sets the foundation for other commands.
Stay: Teach your dog how to stay to control their movements in various environments. The stay command will ensure that your dog does not move until you have permitted them.
Come: This is the most important command your dog can learn. Teach your dog to respond when you call them. This will prevent situations that could be dangerous, such as running into traffic or becoming lost. This will give you peace of mind if your dog is not on a leash in a park, or even just at home.
Down: This command will encourage your dog to remain relaxed and in a lying down position. This command is especially useful for calming down an exuberant dog or teaching them patience. This also helps to establish control in situations when your dog may feel overstimulated.
5. Control Consequences Effectively
When you use reward-based methods of training, the term consequences does not mean punishment. Instead, it means that rewards will be withheld if your dog displays unwanted behaviour. Your dog must learn that some actions result in positive results, and others don’t.
If your dog is prone to jumping up and greeting people, this may appear harmless or even cute. However, it can pose a risk, especially around children or elderly visitors. Teach your dog that jumping will not get them any attention. Turn away from them or walk calmly out of the door when they jump. Avoid eye contact and avoid speaking. Repeat this every time they leap.
When your dog greets you with all four feet on the ground and you praise them, or give them a treat, reward them immediately. It teaches your dog that calm behaviour is rewarded with positive attention. Ask your family or visitors to be consistent. Over time, you will see your dog associate polite greetings and rewards with jumping.
How to Reward Your Dog?
Understanding what motivates your dog to learn is the key to successful training. Your dog’s reward preferences can change depending on the situation or time of day. For instance, letting your dog go outside in the morning to use the bathroom might be the best reward. After this need has been met, they may quickly move on to breakfast. When your dog is alert and active, a game or favourite toy could be the best reward for good behaviour, such as returning when called.
Pay attention to your dog’s preferences in different situations. This will make training more fun and easier. Some dogs thrive on food, while others are motivated by praise, affection or play. You can keep your dog motivated and engaged by tailoring rewards to the situation and their preferences.
How Puppy Training Differs from Adult Dog Training?
Different approaches and expectations are required for training puppies and adult dogs. Puppies, like a blank slate, are naturally curious and open to new experiences. They quickly learn new habits with positive reinforcement and patience. They also have a short attention span and can easily get distracted, so sessions should be fun and brief. Socialisation at an early age is crucial to their development as well-adjusted adults who can adapt to a wide range of situations and environments.
Training adult dogs can be more difficult, but not impossible, because they may have developed habits, both good and bad. They usually benefit from routines that are more structured and consequences that are consistent. They can tolerate longer training sessions, but progress will be slower if the dog is unlearning old behaviours or has not been socialised. If you are working with an older dog or a young puppy, patience, consistency, and a positive outlook will be key to success.
Boosting Your Dog’s Motivation to Learn
It is important to keep your dog motivated, particularly as it begins to master new behaviours. Food rewards can be very effective at the beginning, but they do not always need to be used once your dog has consistently performed the desired behaviour. To keep things engaging and interesting, try varying the reward. You can alternate between treats or toys, verbal praise or affection, whatever your dog prefers.
Introduce “jackpot” incentives to your dog when they do something particularly impressive, such as responding quickly to an order or obeying despite a distracting situation. Give a high-value treat ( like chicken, cheese or other favourites ) accompanied by enthusiastic praise and affection. This shows your dog they did a great job and encourages them to continue to learn and perform good behaviour. This keeps your training dynamic and fun for you both.
