Sunday, December 30, 2012

The Basics of Effective Pitbull Training

By Geraldine Dimarco


If you are reading this article right now, you probably have a pitbull terrier at home and you think he is absolutely fantastic, right? They are generally low-maintenance, fun and affectionate canines that are well worth the time and money you spend on them. You love them the way they are but now you want more-obedience training. So what is the best way to train blue pitbulls?

I don't care what some people have said-every dog CAN be trained, pitbulls included. They might seem overly vigorous and even combative with other canines, but definitely they can be trained and you can do this by using their mindset to your best advantage. Pitbull training is most effective when you use positive reinforcement to get them to do what you want.

What is positive reinforcement? Another term would be positive behavioral conditioning. This is where you reward good behavior and completed commands with a treat or praise. Bear in mind that pitbulls love human beings and they adore receiving attention from you. He simply want to please you. Knowing this, we see that the problem is not really that our dogs are stubborn-it is that they do not fully understand what you want from him that's why he cannot adequately deliver it.

It is therefore critical that you be as consistent and repetitive as possible in training. Animals are obviously not gifted with cognitive skills like we humans are, so use simple and consistent commands in obedience training. Repetition builds understanding so be patient when your dog doesn't comprehend what you want right away. He will eventually get it as long as you use the same words all the time and use the right techniques in executing it.

If there is a certain behavior that needs correcting-find out the root where that action is coming from first. For example, dogs that are destructive and noisily barking without cause doesn't necessarily mean he is being difficult. More often than not, he is bored and needs to vent energy. Blue pitbulls are very energetic dogs so you need to bring them out for vigorous exercise at least 30 minutes each day. Some claim that tired pitbulls are good pitbulls. You want to get rid of excess energy that can translate to aggressive behavior without completely exhausting them.

Now, it is not only physical stimulus that pitbulls respond to, it is also very important that you engage him mentally as well. Keep school as fun and interesting for him by making it proactive. Only take 15 minutes at a time whenever you train him, otherwise you will lose his attention and further training will be futile. Be creative and utilize space without too much going on to lessen distraction.

Remember, pitbull training is only as effective as the master who implements it. Be kind but firm and strong when you deal with him to let him know that you're the boss. When he understand and accepts that you as his leader, it will be much easier to train him. Build a good and solid relationship with your pet and enjoy many more years of happy memories ahead!




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