How to Train Dogs the Happy Way
When you’re trying to figure out how to train dogs you may feel like pulling your hair out at times but relax it’s not as hard as you might initially think. There is a way to make training your dog a positive experience for both of you.
I know that spanking a dog with the rolled up newspaper is the dog training method of choice for some but this just doesn’t cut it for many dog owners. (Not to mention that poor dog!) Many dog experts will tell you that you’ll get far better results with positive reinforcement than any other method. Plus your dog will love you for it!
Learning how to train dogs is really not as hard as you think. Your dogs loves you and wants to make you happy. The tricky part comes in relaying to your dog exactly what you want him to do.
Positive reinforcement is a great way to train dogs, and you’ll find that with just a little bit of work, even older dogs can be trained to follow basic commands. Don’t ever believe that an old dog can’t learn new tricks, so make sure that you teach any dog you own basic commands like “sit,” “lie down,” and “heel.”
The key when starting out with the positive reinforcement method is to give your dog a cue that you will use consistently throughout training. It doesn’t matter whether it’s word or a gesture. Your cue will signal your dog to perform the desired action so make sure it’s something that’s relatively easy to understand.
Let’s pretend you’re training your dog to lie down. You say to your dog in a clear, even tone, “lie down,” and assist him by gently pushing his legs down. Once he has lain down you can reward him with a big hug and say, “great job” or you can give him a treat. The key is to let him know that this is a good thing and you’re happy with his performance.
Remember that should only reward your dog when he performs at your command. If, for instance, he comes up and sits or rolls over without any prompting for you, do not give him a treat. If you do, you can think of it as him training you, instead!
When you’re learning how to train your dog using positive reinforcement it’s important to keep in mind that dog training does take time and focused effort. Don’t lose control and start yelling at or hitting your dog. Don’t forget that your dog loves you. If he behaves badly reprimand him firmly but don’t be so harsh that you make him afraid of you.
With patience and a little effort you’ll have your dog trained in no time. You’ll feel comfortable with your dog’s behavior and your dog will be happy because he’s pleasing his owner.
