Treasure Valley Dog Training

THREE STEPS TO BETTER OBEDIENCE

When people get a dog or puppy, they usually have good intentions and want a well-trained
companion. It is up to the owner to see that this happens, as most dogs won’t train
themselves. Training ensures a better quality of life for both the dog and owner and is also
important for the safety of the dog. A well-trained dog will be a friend and be welcome in more
places and not be a nuisance and ignored. An untrained dog cannot be recalled effectively,
which could result in serious injury or even death in a world filled with dangers.

Start young. Puppies learn much faster and don’t have behaviors ingrained that must be
unlearned. (Dogs, like people, are more receptive to learning new behaviors when they are
young.) The earlier you get started, the more effective the training will be. The puppy will grow
up knowing obedience as a way of life. But if you start with an adult dog, don’t worry. Any dog
can be trained at any age. It is usually a little more difficult because they are more set in their
ways, but it can be done and done effectively.

No matter what age your dog or puppy is, you can be successful and effective at dog training if
you focus on three key elements: Be consistent, be a good leader or “Alpha figure” to your dog,
and use plenty of positive motivation.

Being consistent is crucial if you want a well-trained dog that obeys your commands the first
time you give them no matter where you are or what the distractions are. If you are not
consistent when it comes to enforcing the commands, it sends confusing signals, which is
unfair to the dog. In the dog’s mind, they will be constantly testing to see whether they can do
what they want or have to do what you want. If you give a command and the dog chooses to
ignore you, whether they are too distracted of just don’t want to do it, gently make it happen.
Consistency teaches the dog that when you give a command, it must be followed. (Over time,
this will make your relationship less confusing for the dog and less frustrating for you.

Don’t let your dog become the master. Dogs, by nature, are pack animals. They are looking
for an “Alpha figure” or leader of the pack to provide guidance and instruction. If you don’t
provide this leadership for them, they will take it upon themselves, and you will have a dog that
thinks it is in charge. If you give your dog a command, it will be on their terms, if and when they
want to be obedient. By becoming the “Alpha figure” or leader of the pack, your dog will
naturally feel inclined to respect and follow your lead. Dogs have an instinctive need to learn
from the “Alpha,” so by taking advantage of this leadership role, you can make the training
much more effective.

The use of positive motivation when the dog has done something right is very important.
Positive motivation is something pleasing or very desirable as a reward and can be anything
from praise and affection to a small piece of food or a favorite toy. By using positive motivation,
you will have a dog that will be happy and want to follow the commands you give.

Dog training is a lot of work. Many dog owners have dogs that never reach their full potential
because the owner has lost interest in the training. Don’t give up! If you put the time and effort
into the training, you will have a well-trained dog and loyal friend for life.

written by Greg Tank, Certified Master Dog Trainer, Nampa, Idaho copyright 2006