Training dogs is a profession any loving dog owner can take up on his own pet. If you are one of them and have been deterred by well meaning friends and relatives have probably failed themselves; dont lose hope. It may be that wrong techniques have been used, teaching has not been consistent, or patience just ran out. There are times that dog training will severely test the affinity you have for your dog– but this comes with equally rewarding results. You will have a better relationship with your pet and your home will be cleaner too.

Let’s start by looking into what goes on inside the mind of your dog so we can better grasp the reasons behind the given dog training tips. People are logical and intelligent creatures (most of us anyway). We can correctly assume the outcome of any given situation through reasoning skills and basic common sense. Dogs on the other hand, are lovable but not as smart. They understand only through simple reactions and a consistent repetition of unchanging commands. For instance, we understand that ‘Come!’, ‘Let’s go!’, or ‘Come here!’ mean the same thing. But with dogs, all three phrases are as different as different can be. He might go to you after the millionth time of calling him but that doesn’t mean he understands what you’re trying to say.

Be consistent in educating your canine. Use the exact words you will use in training your dog basic obedience commands. This follows to every part of his training.

A healthy and successful relationship with your dog starts with the establishment of your authority over him as his master. Be firm and strong when you deal with him, never harsh and violent. Once the dog understands this, he will seek to be a ‘good boy’ and obey commands promptly if he knows this pleases you.

Rubbing the dogs belly is a good strategy in enforcing your authority. It teaches him submission by allowing him to lick the back of your hand. Never concede to his growling and whining just to keep him quiet. It is imperative that you establish habits that lead to good behavior the earlier the better.

An effective trick experts use is to allow the dog to learn by teaching himself. What do I mean? Let’s say, your dog is chewing on something he isn’t supposed to be chewing. You can scold him and take away the object immediately. This is a common canine training method. A better way is to take away bad behavior is through substituting it with a good one by giving unpleasant sensations with the incorrect behavior.

If he gnaws on one of your pairs of shoe, spray him with water. If he does it again, spray him yet again. Place his own toy strategically before him to pick up. If he catches on and starts playing with the toy enthusiastically praise him. In the dog’s uncomplicated mind, chewing the shoe feels bad and playing with the toy feels good.

Do not forget to bring him up properly with socialization. It is an often overlooked but very important aspect of dog training. Establishing social skills is best during the first three months of the puppy’s life. However, adult dogs needs and would benefit from regular interaction with people and other animals. Make socialization an integral part of his life by introducing your pet to vaccinated dogs, different kinds of people and crowded places whenever you can.

As any parent would know, you discipline that which you love and care for. The dog training tips as outlined above will greatly help your dogs become the happier, best version of themselves. Nobody said it would be easy, but it will always be worth it.

Geraldine Dimarco enjoys the advantages of dog training her brood of dogs. Check out great articles on Dog Training Tips you can use for you own pets at home.