Whether you’ve just brought home a puppy, a rescue dog, or you’re ready to start training a beloved family pet, there is no better time to get started with dog training. Young dogs, old dogs, and all breeds capable of learning new tricks or changing unwanted behaviors as long as you have the right training approach.
When done right, training is beneficial for both you and your dog. In addition to creating a well behaved dog and avoiding unwanted behaviors, training makes you seem like a confident leader to your dog, giving him confidence and security. It provides mental stimulation, and helps the two of you learn to work together, increasing the bond you have with your pup.
What You Need to Start Training
Although there will be some challenges along the way, going into training with a plan and the right tools can help you and your four legged friends succeed. Patience and a positive attitude are key as you get started with training. There is bound to be some frustration on both your part and that of your dog and training will take time. Some dogs are anxious to please and learn very quickly, but others may need frequent reminders.
The good news is that as you get started and master the basics, later training will become easier as both you and your dog improve your communication. To get started, make sure you have:
- Resources – Most dog owners are not experts in training, but expert advice is readily available. If you want to handle training on your own, find books or online resources to guide you. Just as if you were choosing an in person trainer, you will want to take some time to research and read feedback to be sure you are using resources from a reliable trainer.
- Training Tools – What you use to train your dog will vary based on your preferences and those of your dog. A leash and collar are necessities to help guide your dog. You’ll also need a type of reward that you know your dog enjoys such as treats or toys. Some trainers will also opt to use a clicker or E-collar to help reinforce behavior.
- Goals – You also need to know what you want to accomplish with your dog. You may want them to know the basics like sit, stay, and heel. You may want to train out an undesirable behavior like barking or getting in the trash. Or you may want to try advanced skills and tricks. Whichever you choose, it’s best to start small and proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you and your dog.
If your goal is to train out problems like aggression where there is a risk to people or other animals, or you simply want a little extra help in getting started, working with a professional trainer is the best way to help correct your dog’s behavior and build a strong foundation for all future training.