Top Ten Things to Remember When Training Your Canine Companion

My Heart Dog CaseySource: Personal Photo

Want the quickest and best way to train your dog, and make sure the training sticks?

If you train a dog using fear, aggression or pain, then that is what you will get in return. I have trained several of my own dogs, several dogs for family and friends, as well as

trained many others to train their dogs. I have never once had to use any of the above mentioned methods, no matter what the breed or its issues. I have only used positive training methods, and have achieved basic titles in record time. That doesn't mean it doesn't take time and repetition and a great deal of patience.

Humans domesticated the dog, and dog became man/woman's best friend. You do not treat your best friend or any member of your family with these methods! Dogs want only to please their people, and do the job they were bred to do. Herding dogs were bred to herd cattle, sheep, ducks, etc. Sporting dogs were bred to help hunters find and retrieve their prey. Working dogs were bred for many different jobs through history. And yes, some dogs were bred to be

lap dogs. That doesn't mean they don't want to go out and have fun, and have a 'job' to do, even if it wasn't the same one they were bred for.

Most people think of potty training, sit, stay, down, etc. when they think of getting a puppy. True these are all important, and all achieved much quicker, and more permanently positive reinforcement when the correct behavior is recognized with excitement, praise, and treats, than if the wrong behavior is punished.

In the spirit of the 'Top Ten List', the following are the most important things to keep in mind, and continue to practice, as you and your companion learn together, and grow to respect each other:

Top Ten Dog Training Tips

1. Learn to Listen to your Dog. Respect his/her comfort level in different situations.

2. Be More Generous with your Affection, than with your Discipline.

3. Just because someone says your pet should like something, doesn't mean he has to. Dogs have different tastes just like people.

4. Tell your canine partner what you DO want him to do, not what you don't.

5. Make sure the whole family is consistent with the words and methods of training.

6. Be realistic in your expectations with regard to both time and learning.

7. Don't underestimate the power of a high quality food on your pet's physical and mental health. The cost of the food will offset the pain of the vet bills in the long run.

8. Reward will win over both Bribery and Punishment every time.9. Timing is everything. You will get the behavior you reinforce, not necessarily

what you want!10. Allow your pet to Earn their freedom in the house. Too much too soon will

be frustrating for both of you.

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