Monday, April 07, 2008

Handy Dog Training Tips

Title: Handy Dog Training Tips
Author: Patrick Carpen

Handy Dog Training Tips
Dog training does not require you to be an all-commanding
power. It only requires that you keep a few, simple basics
at hand. There are three techniques, that once mastered,
will have you commanding everything in sight. The first of
the three is to remember to show your dog who is in charge.
Make sure he understands that you, not he, are the boss.
Second, find a tone of voice, which you will use when
giving commands to your dog, one which will let your dog
know who is in charge. Finally, consistency and routine
are a must, and should always be kept in mind.

Although your puppy will undoubtedly be absolutely
adorable, hence the term "puppy face," you should not let
this get in the way of proper obedience. Your dog should
always know who is in charge, and should learn early on
that it is not he who is the boss, but you. This is the
best way to teach your puppy the basics, such as
house-training and what not to chew. You should set
boundaries and limits with your puppy, as with a child,
from early on, and this will teach your pup right from
wrong. Make sure you use voice commands and also gestures,
such as stamping a foot or pointing, to help your dog learn
proper cues.

Dogs don't actually grasp the concept of words, per say;
however, they definitely understand tone-of-voice. The
tone of your voice lets your dog know what your mood is,
and also what you expect from your dog. A very firm,
strict-sounding voice lets your dog know when to stay put,
when to sit, when "no" means no, etc. A happy, cheery
voice lets your dog know that you are pleased or that you
want to play. Tone of voice is exactly what you need to
establish in order to begin good communication with your
dog, and to let him know what you expect from him and when.

Most importantly, be consistent, consistent, consistent!
Do not slacken when you are trying to teach your dog a
certain command. Keep the same techniques for the same
commands ever repetitive. For example, when housebreaking
your puppy, do not spank for one indiscretion, and yell and
place outside for another. This does not teach your dog,
and it actually confuses him on what he should be doing.
Do not give him conflicting orders that may ultimately be
confusing. Another way to work on consistency is to
establish routines. Take him out at the same time everyday
for walks, use a certain leash for walks, and another for
vet visits, or give him the same goodbye pat each time you
leave the house so that he knows you will return.

All of these techniques will help you to have a more happy,
healthy relationship with your dog, especially if you
couple them with lots of love and affection. Your dog will
learn quickly what you expect from him, and will be able to
give you what you want more efficiently. You will also
learn how to better predict your dog's behavior. Don't
forget the rewards and praise too.

About the Author:

Patrick Carpen is the designer, writer and owner of the
website http://dogtraining.infobay.ws/
Infobay.ws is a content based, consumer oriented website
that provides professionally researched, and up to the
minute content on selected subjects.

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