Basic Course for Trainers – Part I

To make the training of your dog a success, it is important to observe certain rules right from the beginning. These rules will make from the beginning. These rules will make learning easier for the dog and help it recognize what its assigned place in the family is to be. Some training, like housebreaking and basic rules of behavior, should begin as soon as your puppy comes into your home. Other serious training for your puppy probably shouldn’t start much before 6 months of age. Of course, some dogs will be ready for training earlier that others. Your dog’s level of physical and mental maturity will dictate its readiness for training. The veterinarian will help you decide when your pup is old enough for lessons to be meaningful.

If you have never training a dog, you would be well-advised to seek help from an experienced trainer. Training should be an enjoyable experience, and someone who thoroughly knows the breed will be able to help you keep things both enjoyable and productive.

The Most Important Training Rules

Be Consistent

Consistency is one of the most critical rules of dog training. It is essential for all family members to be in agreement about what the dog is and is not allowed to do. Do not let one member of the family allow the dog to sit on couch, foe example, while another does not. Moreover, the couch and the bed are, from the dog’s point of view, elevated places to rest, and, in packs of dogs or wolves, such places are reserved exclusively for high-ranking animals. This, it is better not to give your dog a chance to get comfortable on the sofa or bed.

Only One Trainer

While your pet is being trained, your family needs to designate one adult member to practice regularly with the dog. That will make it easier for the dog to learn the commands. Later on, other household members should agree to use the same commands, to avoid confusing the dog.

Your Voice Is Crucial

The dog takes it cues to a great extent from the inflection of the human voice and the sound of individual words. It does not, however, have a real understanding of the words.

Commands should always be given in a firm, decisive tone of voice at normal volume. It is unnecessary, as well as inadvisable, to shout at the dog.

EDUCATING YOUR DOG WITH LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING, KATHARINA SCHLEGL-KOFLER