Training your dog can be both fun and helpful for you and your dog. It’s important to train your dog so that you both can live happy and healthy in a balanced way. Here are 6 dog training tips from the pros that you can put to work today:
1. Give clear instructions
Your dog is smart, but they can’t always read your mind. You might say “no,” to your dog, but your dog might not understand what that means or exactly what you’re asking them to do. The experts at the Sykesville Veterinary Clinic near Eldersburg veterinary hospital, MD suggest giving your dog more clear instructions.
If you say “no,” but what you really want is for your dog to sit, tell your dog to “sit” instead. If you want your dog to “come,” that’s what you need to say to your dog. Direct instructions make a big difference so that your dog is not confused about how they’re supposed to react.
2. Give lots of praise
People like praise for a job well done and dogs do, too. When your dog does a good job, a pat on the head and some verbal affirmation can be just as good as a treat. Your dog loves you, and it’s important that you recognize his or her hard work with lots of hugs, pats and affection.
3. Don’t expect it all to happen at once
You didn’t learn everything you know at once, and your dog won’t learn it all at once either. If your dog makes mistakes, that’s okay. If your dog needs to take a step back and practice things you’ve already covered, that’s okay, too. Just like people learn at different rates, you dog learns at their own pace, too. It’s important to celebrate your dog’s victories as they train, but also exercise patience when he or she needs a little bit of extra TLC in the process.
4. Choose treats that your dog likes
It’s important to offer your dog something they really want as a reward for a job well done. If you’re not a fan of licorice, someone offering you licorice for a reward isn’t going to be much of an incentive. The same is true for pets. When you’re training your dog with treats, make sure that you offer your dog something that they really like. They’ll work a lot harder for you if they want the reward that you’re offering.
5. Accept feedback
You’re trying to train your dog, and your dog probably has some opinions about that process. Make sure you pay attention and listen to your dog’s feedback as you go. Is your dog comfortable with what you’re asking him or her to do? Your dog might not want to go interact with other animals, for example, and that should be okay. If your dog knows that you can hear them, they’re more likely to be receptive to your instruction.
6. Always trust your gut
When it comes to your pet, you know and love them the best. If you have questions about your pet’s health or safety, contact an expert at the Sykesville Veterinary Clinic near Eldersburg to make an appointment for your pet. Animal experts know how much you love your pet, and they can help you create a health care plan to keep your dog happy and healthy.