Dog Training: Make Them Your Companion

Are you looking for dog training tips? Do you already have a pet with some behaviors you hope to rid him of? This article is perfect! Keep reading to learn how to really create a best friend.

When teaching a puppy basic commands, start with 'sit'. This is the easiest one for a dog to master. Hold his favorite snack just above his nose, and firmly say 'sit'. Most dogs will instinctively sit down at this point. Offer him the treat and don't forget to praise him profusely. If he doesn't sit, gently push his rear end towards the floor. After he has been sitting for a few seconds, give him the treat, and like before, remember to praise him.

Training doesn't only happen during designated training sessions. Every time you interact with your pup, you are training him. Make sure to stay consistent in your commands and requests and to continue to reinforce those good behaviors. If you are training him to stay off the couch, don't let him jump up there while you are watching a show. Stay consistent at all times with what you want him to do and you will see the rewards.

Your friends and family, in most cases, are not dog trainers. While those around you may have advice and opinions on how you should handle your dog's training, it does not mean they are correct. This input may be well-meaning, however, you can ignore most of it if you have taken the time to do your homework.

Always keep fresh water available to your dog when he is being trained using a crate. One way to do this without making a mess is to furnish the crate with a rabbit water bottle. Just attach it to the outside of the crate with the tip sticking inside. Your dog will quickly learn to drink from it.

Food and treats can be your ally in training your dog to seek out his crate. Allow your dog to find strategically placed bits of food and a few treats every once in awhile when he returns to his crate. He will make it a habit of checking the crate out more regularly just in case something else has miraculously appeared there.

Puppy chewing is a natural and necessary behavior, but it can be redirected. A puppy's chewing is one way that he explores the environment around him. Provide your puppy with clear leadership and a lot of human interaction and stimulation. Also, provide him with fun chew toys. This will help stop him from chewing on the things that he should not be chewing on.

Remember that sometimes patience is key, don't become frustrated if your dog doesn't catch on right away. It would be nice if every dog could understand your every command but you have to remember they can't. Just try and be sure you are aware of your dog's emotions and when they do follow your command reward them so they know what they did was right.

Dogs need routine, so feed your dog at the same time every day. This also helps with training. This way, you are aware of when your dog will need to do his business, and you can take him outside before an accident occurs. Having a regular schedule will help your dog know that a potty break will be coming, and he will hold learn to hold his bathroom urges until that time.

Any dog you adopt should go through at least a basic obedience class with a professional. The skills you can learn from a professional course will more than outweigh the cost of the course. Also, a course gives you and your dog a chance to socialize with other dogs and their owners.

If you are trying to train a teething puppy not to chew on your clothing or belongings, give it an appropriate item on which to chew. Teething puppies have an instinctive need to chew, in order to relieve the pain. However, don't give your puppy old shoes or clothing, as they will learn that those items are okay to chew on.

Dogs are commonly referred to as "man's best friend," but when they are unruly and untrained they can be a nightmare. The old adage that one cannot teach old dogs new tricks is false, but it is definitely easier to train a puppy. Dogs are ultimately pack animals and it is important for a dog owner to be the leader of that pack.

Well trained dogs are happy dogs and dogs that are trained make for happy dog owners. It is a win-win situation. Training your dog takes time, but it starts with house-training and moves onto learning how to walk on a leash. Simple commands such as heel, sit and return are important for any dog's safety. Dog owners can find pet trainers via their local big box pet store or the veterinarian, but it will take a lot of work from the owner regardless. A dog that is well trained makes a happier pet and really happy pet owner.

You now should understand that training your dog isn't all that hard. Put these ideas into play, and you can train your dog to do practically anything. Dogs love to know what you want them to do and follow your commands. All they need is a bit of guidance. Give this a try right away!