Learning How to Train Dogs the Positive Way

Starting to feel like learning how to train dogs is impossible and better off left to the pros? Don't quit yet. There are several effective ways to train your dog the key is to learn which method works best for you and your dog.

Any behavioral specialist (and any parent!) will tell you that you get better results with rewards than you get with punishments, and with a little of thought, it's easy to see why this is the best way to train your dog. For your dog's own safety and for your own sanity, you'll find that using a rewards-based system is one of the most effective ways to train your dog and to make the training stick.

Learning how to train dogs is really not as hard as you think. Your dogs loves you and wants to make you happy. The tricky part comes in relaying to your dog exactly what you want him to do.

Positive reinforcement is a great way to train dogs, and you'll find that with just a little bit of work, even older dogs can be trained to follow basic commands. Don't ever believe that an old dog can't learn new tricks, so make sure that you teach any dog you own basic commands like "sit," "lie down," and "heel."

When you start training your dog, start by making sure that you give him a cue. Whether this is a word or gesture, make sure that it is consistent. This will signal your dog to perform the trick or action that is desirable, so make sure that it is very clear.

Let's pretend you're training your dog to lie down. You say to your dog in a clear, even tone, "lie down," and assist him by gently pushing his legs down. Once he has lain down you can reward him with a big hug and say, "great job" or you can give him a treat. The key is to let him know that this is a good thing and you're happy with his performance.

Remember that should only reward your dog when he performs at your command. If, for instance, he comes up and sits or rolls over without any prompting for you, do not give him a treat. If you do, you can think of it as him training you, instead!

When you're learning how to train your dog using positive reinforcement it's important to keep in mind that dog training does take time and focused effort. Don't lose control and start yelling at or hitting your dog. Don't forget that your dog loves you. If he behaves badly reprimand him firmly but don't be so harsh that you make him afraid of you.

This dog training thing takes patience and lots of practice but it's well worth it. You'll have a happy well behaved pet who loves you to pieces not to mention a nice, clean floor!

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Did you know that your dog may not know what you want from him? Visit dog training tips and learn how to make him understand. This will remove the frustration and rapidly help your dog learn new tasks.

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