Shadowlea

Training any dog of any age or breed can be frustrating if you don't have the right strategies and techniques in mind. There is a true secret to dog training, and it is in the knowledge that you have and the understanding of the dog you are training. You need to know their behavior and the way they learn best. These tips can get you off to a great start.

Train your dog by keeping the leash lax. A tight leash will cause the dog to instinctively pull, which will make him feel restricted. A loose leash will give your dog a somewhat limited sense of freedom, which will be a positive thing when you begin training him and he feels like he has pleased you.

When teaching your dog how to fetch do not reach for the object right when he brings it back to you. Ignore it and pat him on the head or body. If you reach for the object right away he may try to guard it, or run away. If you ignore it, he is more likely to drop it. You may also find it useful to train with multiple balls or Frisbees.

Your punishments should never be too strict. If your dog is overly excited, take a time out and let him cool his jets before continuing with your task. A time out goes a long way in helping a dog focus, especially if it's taken in a quiet area away from whatever has distracted him.

Teach your dog hand targeting for a fun and new task that will bring you two together. Hand targeting is a way of teaching your dog to follow and touch your hand. This behavior can be built upon and turned into retrieval behaviors later on down the line. It makes for a fun project for most breeds!

When training your dog to specific commands, don't mix in pleasantries and other extra words. Give the command word sharply and alone. Your dog doesn't understand words like "please", and won't be upset at your lack of manners. Keeping the commands alone and clear makes it easier for your dog to understand and obey.

Train your dog! Dog training doesn't stop with sit, stay, and lay down. You can train your dog to do a number of tricks as well. Teaching a dog to sit with a treat on his nose, for example, helps reinforce impulse control. Teaching your dog to "shake hands" with a new visitor gives the dog a cue to accept the visitor and react appropriately.

As part of your dog training, it is important to reinforce positive behavior. In most cases, giving your dog a small treat every time they do the correct movement is the best reinforcement. Before you know it your dog will be reacting very quickly to your commands, even without the treat.

Dogs are commonly referred to as "man's best friend," but when they are unruly and untrained they can be a nightmare. The old adage that one cannot teach old dogs new tricks is false, but it is definitely easier to train a puppy. Dogs are ultimately pack animals and it is important for a dog owner to be the leader of that pack.

Be sure to reward good behavior when your dog acts like you want them to. If you take the time to teach them the important things for them to know and help them build their confidence that a good dog needs, you are sure to develop a strong and healthy relationship with them.

The dog in your life is very important to you. Your relationship will only be helped by having good training and discipline now. You can focus more on having fun with your dog when you aren't always concerned about what trouble he is causing. Use the tips from this article to get started.