Tips To Train Your Dog
Dogs are a mans best friend. They have been the loyal companions of humans for centuries and have become an integral part of our lives. Whether you’ve recently adopted a rescue, or are looking to polish up on your dog’s manners, proper training and socialisation are essential ingredients to making you and your dog happy. This post will explore all you need to know about dog training and some key tips to train your dog effectively so that they can live a long and fulfilling life with you.
When Should You Start Dog Training?
Training and play are key to the healthy development of a puppy. Not only is well-trained puppy obedient, but they are more likely to become well-balanced and happy adults.
Puppies have short attention spans and while they can easily learn simple commands such as sit and stay, it is often believed that formal training should only begin at 6 months. However, puppies and dogs are constantly learning and many owners will find that their puppy had already developed bad habits and various behavioural problems that can make training all the more difficult.
The American Kennel Club and various other canine experts recommend that, where possible, training should be as early as 7-8 weeks. This ensures that no learning experience is missed and provides opportunities for socialisation.
Can An Old Dog Learn New Tricks?
As the saying goes “You can teach an old dog new tricks” however, this cannot be further from the truth! Dogs are good learners and are naturally inquisitive, making them eager to experience new things.
While young pups are more active and curious, dogs never stop learning. Older dogs are not easily distracted and can focus for longer periods of time. This ability to focus helps them learn new and more complex tasks more easily.
Benefits Of Dog Training
Training your dog is not only beneficial for you but plays a big role in the development, health and happiness of your furry companion. There are many advantages to training your dog, these include:
To help keep your pet safe and avoid unnecessary stress, ensure your pet has a comfortable space that is away from noise and activity. If you find your companion is overly stressed, be sure to consult with your veterinarian about possible solutions. At The House Call Vet, we are happy to help you keep your pet as happy and healthy as you are this season.
- Good for physical health and wellbeing
- Good for mental wellbeing
- Builds a lasting relationship between you and your dog
- Less damage to your home
- Safer for your dog in dangerous situations
- Easier to take your dog out in public
When Should You Start Dog Training?
Training should be a fun, rewarding, and fulfilling experience for both of you and your pet. Here are some top tips when training your dog.
Reward Good Behaviour
Letting your dog know that they are doing something right is one of the most important parts of the training process. Even when your dog is not actively learning new tricks but still doing the things you want them to do, reward it. This encourages and reinforces good behaviour and paves the way for future training and can be done with toys, love praise and treats.
Start Early
As mentioned above starting early is extremely beneficial when training your dog. They are more receptive to new experiences and are in the vital learning stages of their development.
Be Consistent
You need to be consistent with your training methods. Whether you are training their basic commands or correcting bad habits, remaining consistent will ensure success in the long run! When it comes to training, the best approach is to use the same words for the same commands and encourage family members to do the same.
Have Realistic Expectations
Learning new commands, routines and tricks may come easy for some pets and not others. Ensuring that you have realistic expectations in training not only gives your more patience, but you are less likely to get frustrated and yell when it takes your companion longer to learn various commands. Training is about progression and development, so keep that perspective in mind.
End Training Sessions on a Positive Note
Your furry friend is working hard to learn and please you. End each training session on a positive note with praise, treats or play. This makes it known to your pet that good things happen when you’re training together.
Training Your Dog To Keep Them Healthy
While training is a great way to bond and form a lasting relationship with your pet, there is another important benefit to training. It will keep them healthy!
Training your dog teaches them discipline which makes it easier for you to take control of situations where they may put themselves in danger such as running out onto the street without checking for cars first. Having good training skills will also help you understand and anticipate what your dog is thinking and feeling. This will make it easier for you to notice any abnormalities in their mood, energy level or physical aspects, which can help you catch potential health issues early before they become serious.
The House Call Vet is Brisbane Based veterinary clinic dedicated to keeping your companion happy and healthy.
Our team of experienced and qualified veterinarians, nurses and support staff will ensure your furry friend receives the best care possible. Get in touch today for your next trip to the vet.
Standard Clinic Consult are from 8am to 6pm and our House Call Consults are from 7 am to midnight.
Whether you needs some tips to train your dog, a regular checkup or vaccination, we are there for you and your pet, no matter what level of care they need!
