Friday, April 22, 2011

How To Build An Effective Program For Pet Training

By Adriana Noton


There are several important aspects to consider for pet training, especially when you have a new dog or puppy. Keep in mind that any attempt to change behavior takes time and patience. It will not happen immediately. Be prepared to spend adequate time and train on a regular basis for best results.

No two dogs are the same. Their actions and ability to train depend on breed, temperament, and nature. Certain dogs tend to be very eager to please and engaged with their owners while others hold back and respond more mildly. For rewards, some like food and treats while others respond to praise. Some pets work better with verbal commands versus hand signals. By spending plenty of time observing behavior and reaction, you can determine what works best in your situation.

With dogs, the owner must be the pack leader. You establish this position with authority and dominance, although not in a negative manner. Speak firmly and let your pet know you are in charge especially when first introducing a dog or puppy to your household. It helps that you are the one in charge of food. Set specific feeding times and stay with a schedule.

Positive reinforcement is more effective than negative. The key to reinforcing a certain behavior is to recognize when dogs perform correct tasks by rewarding them generously. When a dog does something bad, avoid reacting negatively by yelling or punishing. Instead, simply ignore the unwanted behavior. This helps teach what behaviors earn praise versus what results in nothing.

Anger and punishment are virtually useless in teaching a dog proper behavior. Avoid striking or beating animals under all circumstances. The only result you get from negative actions is to alienate the animal. They will begin to see you as an adversary rather than a companion. By implementing positive reinforcement, you get more success in training and also build a strong bond.

Keep in mind that learning commands may take longer than you first expect. Set small goals at first which are easy to achieve. Try various techniques to see what works best for your pet. Unrealistic goals, like expecting the dog to learn something in one or two sessions, result in frustration for both of you. Start small, by teaching a simple sit or down command, then work toward more advanced commands over time.

Consider the importance of timing when rewarding or correcting behavior. Your action must be a direct result of what the dog has done. Scolding after the fact has little effect other than cause confusion. For example, suppose you return home and find a sofa cushion has been chewed. Becoming angry and scolding your pet will not work because the bad behavior happened much earlier. Although dogs will naturally cower and slink away, they are simply responding to your negative language. Dogs are not able to connect their earlier actions with your belated reaction.

Consistency and patience are two of the most important aspects for effective dog training London Ontario. Use the exact same verbal and hand signals every time. Set a regular schedule to train. This can be a set time each day, or several small periods of time during the day. All these concepts come together to create an effective program to help your dog learn proper behavior.




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