The pinch collar (also known as a prong collar) is a great training device. It can effectively teach your dogs commands such as down, sit, heel, stay and come. It has many benefits if used properly. At first glance many people get the wrong impression of the pinch collar; they consider it to be a cruel torturing device. Before you jump to these harsh conclusions there are some things you should know and understand.
The pinch collar is not as scary as it looks, in fact the dog is already familiar with what it does. Consider this, when dogs are young puppies the mother will nip the skin around their neck. This will not be hard enough to injure her pup, it will simply pinch the skin. She does this to correct any bad behaviors that she does not approve of.
When a pup goes to the bathroom in their sleeping area, the mother will correct the pup. She will also do this when she feels it is time for her pups to stop breast feeding. The pinch collar is simply continuing on the training methods of the mother. Your dog remembers this feeling and knows that it means he/she has done something wrong.
Studies have been done that showed using a normal nylon collar on an untrained dog can cause damage to the neck and trachea. An untrained dog will pull on the leash and you will hear them gasping for air. If a dog experiences this for a long time, it can cause irreversible damage. A pinch collar will not cause this damage. This is because if the dog starts to pull they will feel a correction; which is the pinch.
It is important to know the proper way to use a pinch collar. It should never be used forcefully or out of anger. It is a very useful training device when used responsibly. When you buy a pinch collar for your dog, look on the package and pick the one for your size of dog. Using a large pinch collar on a small dog will not work, and can cause damage to your dog. Just like using a small pinch collar on a large dog will do nothing and not be effective.
Pinch collars are made of multiple links which allow them to move into each other creating the pinch. Therefor one size does not fit all. There should be room to fit 2 fingers between your dogs neck and the collar. This will allow for the proper motions of the links to create the pinch, also having it too tight would be uncomfortable for your dog.
To train a dog using a pinch collar you will give a correction when a command is not obeyed. A correction is is a downwards jerk of the leash. This is what will cause the links to move together and pinch your dog. If a pinch collar is used properly corrections will not need to be given often, because the dog will learn quickly.
Training with a pinch collar requires consistency. If you choose to sometimes correct and others not; your dog will not know why they are being corrected. You must have a command to give with an exact result in mind and correct every time your dog disobeys. Always use the pinch collar with consistency and you will be able to have a dog who can; sit, heel, stay, down and come on command. The possibilities of what you can train your dog to do is endless.
A pinch collar offers a healthy way to train your dog. If it is used responsibly it is a very effective training device. When using the pinch collar there is no need to give food as a reward for obedience, praise will be healthier and more effective . Training creates a great bonding opportunity, use it to build a life long friendship between you and your canine companion.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Sunday, February 15, 2009
How to teach your dog to heel
Every pet owner knows that being dragged around by your dog is not fun, it can be dangerous and embarrassing. If you have not yet had the opportunity to heel an untrained dog take a moment to consider all the problems this could present. Your dog could cause you to fall and hurt yourself, cause your hand to be sore and cut from their leash, even manage to pull from your grasp which could result in injury or even death.
There is no doubt that training your dog to heel has many benefits not only to you the owner but also to your loyal companion. Studies have shown that a dog who has been trained with obedience commands are less likely to show signs of aggression. When you train your dog you are teaching them to respect you, listen to you and watch you.
Dogs are big people pleaser's! They like to “work” for their people, training your dog gives them the impression they are working for you. It allows you to keep their minds active and their body healthy. One of the greatest bonding opportunities an owner will experience will be training with their dog. It is important to realize that most people who have trouble training their dogs are simply not training them properly and it is not your dog at all. This is good news it means with some work you can still have a well trained companion.
To start you should have a pinch collar (also known as a prong collar) and a six foot leather leash. Before you shudder at the thought of the pinch collar there are some things you should know and understand.. The pinch collar is not as scary as it looks in fact the dog is already familiar with what it does before you introduce it to them. This is because the pinch collar works when the owner gives a downwards jerk on the leash attached to in, this then pinches the skin around your dogs neck. Your dog remembers this feeling and knows that he/she has done something wrong. This is because from the time your dog was a young puppy it's mother would nip the skin around his/her neck to discipline her puppies. The pinch collar is simply continuing on the training methods of the mother.
A six foot leather lead is ideal for training because you have enough leash to hold it with lots of slack, this way you are not accidentally pinching your dog by tugging on his leash. There are ways to prevent this accidental discipline and confusion to your dog. Always remember to stand with your dog on your left side this is important because then you and your dog will be used to watching on that side of each other. Training is all about your consistency by keeping your dog on the same side all the time he will learn to watch that side of you for your movements; your movements determine his/her movements so remember this rule. If you forget you will end up with a lot of frustration and a very confused dog!
To start the heel command place your sit in a sit position. Hold your leash in your right hand, this allows you to be able to give your dog a correction using your left hand to jerk the leash. Now give your dog a heel command this should consist of a word and action. The action serves the purpose of getting your dog to focus not only on your voice but your movements. This is very essential because if your dog is watching you he/she is not going to see that cat they want to chase! I use the word “heel” followed by starting to walk with my “right” foot. My right foot moving forward to walk is my dogs visual command to heel.
When a dog is heeling properly they will have their shoulders aligned with your leg. As soon as your dog starts walking faster and is no longer aligned give them a correction like explained using the pinch collar and leash. Then place them on a sit command and start over, by giving them a heel command and walking. At first walk your dog for short distances once they stay aligned with your body PRAISE them. I do not believe in using food for reward as this can cause aggression. Praising your dog is a much better reward for both of you. For you it means no pockets full of treats or disobedient dog when you run out of them. Also you will be helping your dog stay healthy by not always giving them that junk food. For your dog the praise means, your happy with them, they have done a good job and that's more reward then any treat!
Once your dog can heel on their leash and they are watching you (so you know you have their attention), you may want to begin trying the heel command off leash. This should be done in a safe place where your dog cannot get access to a road. You will use the same process as above, but keep in mind that you will not be able to easily discipline your dog so this should be done when you feel your dog is truly ready. If you try with no success continue practicing with the leash on to allow for disciplining, and then re-try off leash again. Your dog will be able to heel on and off leash with ease if you follow these steps.
If you are consistent with these steps you will be successful and will have a dog who will heel beautifully at your side. If you find your dog is not getting it then it is time to evaluate yourself. Simple things that we forget could confuse our dogs and make training harder. If this is happening maybe have a friend or family member watch you to see if you are doing something wrong without even noticing it.
Training your dog is so important not only for safety but because it creates a very special bond between dog and owner. When you train a dog they feel as if they are working as part of a team. They are happier and more well adjusted. Just like children dogs need discipline and rules, and just like our children by giving them these things we will create a bond that will last a life time.
There is no doubt that training your dog to heel has many benefits not only to you the owner but also to your loyal companion. Studies have shown that a dog who has been trained with obedience commands are less likely to show signs of aggression. When you train your dog you are teaching them to respect you, listen to you and watch you.
Dogs are big people pleaser's! They like to “work” for their people, training your dog gives them the impression they are working for you. It allows you to keep their minds active and their body healthy. One of the greatest bonding opportunities an owner will experience will be training with their dog. It is important to realize that most people who have trouble training their dogs are simply not training them properly and it is not your dog at all. This is good news it means with some work you can still have a well trained companion.
To start you should have a pinch collar (also known as a prong collar) and a six foot leather leash. Before you shudder at the thought of the pinch collar there are some things you should know and understand.. The pinch collar is not as scary as it looks in fact the dog is already familiar with what it does before you introduce it to them. This is because the pinch collar works when the owner gives a downwards jerk on the leash attached to in, this then pinches the skin around your dogs neck. Your dog remembers this feeling and knows that he/she has done something wrong. This is because from the time your dog was a young puppy it's mother would nip the skin around his/her neck to discipline her puppies. The pinch collar is simply continuing on the training methods of the mother.
A six foot leather lead is ideal for training because you have enough leash to hold it with lots of slack, this way you are not accidentally pinching your dog by tugging on his leash. There are ways to prevent this accidental discipline and confusion to your dog. Always remember to stand with your dog on your left side this is important because then you and your dog will be used to watching on that side of each other. Training is all about your consistency by keeping your dog on the same side all the time he will learn to watch that side of you for your movements; your movements determine his/her movements so remember this rule. If you forget you will end up with a lot of frustration and a very confused dog!
To start the heel command place your sit in a sit position. Hold your leash in your right hand, this allows you to be able to give your dog a correction using your left hand to jerk the leash. Now give your dog a heel command this should consist of a word and action. The action serves the purpose of getting your dog to focus not only on your voice but your movements. This is very essential because if your dog is watching you he/she is not going to see that cat they want to chase! I use the word “heel” followed by starting to walk with my “right” foot. My right foot moving forward to walk is my dogs visual command to heel.
When a dog is heeling properly they will have their shoulders aligned with your leg. As soon as your dog starts walking faster and is no longer aligned give them a correction like explained using the pinch collar and leash. Then place them on a sit command and start over, by giving them a heel command and walking. At first walk your dog for short distances once they stay aligned with your body PRAISE them. I do not believe in using food for reward as this can cause aggression. Praising your dog is a much better reward for both of you. For you it means no pockets full of treats or disobedient dog when you run out of them. Also you will be helping your dog stay healthy by not always giving them that junk food. For your dog the praise means, your happy with them, they have done a good job and that's more reward then any treat!
Once your dog can heel on their leash and they are watching you (so you know you have their attention), you may want to begin trying the heel command off leash. This should be done in a safe place where your dog cannot get access to a road. You will use the same process as above, but keep in mind that you will not be able to easily discipline your dog so this should be done when you feel your dog is truly ready. If you try with no success continue practicing with the leash on to allow for disciplining, and then re-try off leash again. Your dog will be able to heel on and off leash with ease if you follow these steps.
If you are consistent with these steps you will be successful and will have a dog who will heel beautifully at your side. If you find your dog is not getting it then it is time to evaluate yourself. Simple things that we forget could confuse our dogs and make training harder. If this is happening maybe have a friend or family member watch you to see if you are doing something wrong without even noticing it.
Training your dog is so important not only for safety but because it creates a very special bond between dog and owner. When you train a dog they feel as if they are working as part of a team. They are happier and more well adjusted. Just like children dogs need discipline and rules, and just like our children by giving them these things we will create a bond that will last a life time.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Dog training basics: The "sit" command
Training your dog is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a strong bond between you and your friend, as well as your pets safety. The sit command is one of the first commands you will want to teach your dog. Most other commands you will teach will start from sit. For instance the stay command is usually given after the dog is in a sit position, heel is always started from a sit position, down in usually given from a sit. This in combination with the fact that the sit command is one of the most used commands you will give your dog. While feeding your dog, you want them to sit so they are not in the way, when taking them outside you want them to sit to attach the lead and open the door. There are many more reasons for the sit command and many more commands that will require your dog to know sit. So teaching your dog the “sit” command is a great place to start your training.
Most owners will not get their puppy until around 8 weeks old, this is because 6-8 weeks is “puppy socialization period” this is when your pup should be spending time with other puppies and dogs. This is most commonly and recommended to be spend with the mother and siblings. So most owners will pick their puppy up when they are around 8 weeks old. This is the time when you should be introducing your puppy to it's new home and new family. This is a great time to spent playing and getting to know each other. If your puppy can have fun with you, he will be more eager to learn with you. Therefor training is recommended to be started at around 10 weeks of age.
Dogs love to please people and many dogs are happiest when they are working. Since most dogs now a days are not used for working, training gives them the opportunity to feel as if they are working for you. It keeps their mind active, as well as their bodies and gives you and your dog a chance to bond. The most important part of training a dog is a combination of repetition, consistency and praise, none less important then the other.
There are many resources out there that recommend using treats to train your dog. The problems people face when using this method are many and these include, always having to walk around with a pocket or hand full or treats. Dogs not responding to commands when there is nothing in it for them. Some people have also seen signs or aggression when they are trying to get their dog to “work” for them, when there are no treats involved. Also this can cause your dog to become unhealthy because of the amount of treats he is consuming. This method was not for me so I looked further I went to training classes where the training was done using a pinch collar (prong collar).
Many people think a pinch collar looks like a midevel torture device, but consider this a normal nylon collar, or a choke collar will actually cause more damage to your pet. When they are wearing these styles of collars you will hear your dog gasping for breath as it pulls, this is actually damaging their necks and trachea. A pinch collar when used properly with a downwards jerk on the lead, simply pinches the skin around the neck, in the same manner the mother would when teaching her pup. This method works for many reasons.
The “correction” you are giving your dog is not causing them any lasting harm, it is something that they have experienced since they were puppies from their mother. They already know that when they feel this they have done something wrong. It also accomplishes the task of focusing your dogs attention on you, he is working for you and waiting for his next task. The “reward” your dog receives for doing what he is asked is praise. This is something you do not run out of, it will not make your dog unhealthy, and it will create a stronger bond between both you and your dog.
The begin the sit command place the pinch collar around your dogs neck and attach a 6 foot lead. Your dog will want to be on your left side, so it is best to always have him sit there. This will make other commands easier, because your dog will always be on the same side. Hold the leash in your right hand, feel free to shorten it by holding it in a loose loop. You will stand with your dog on your left side, and give him the sit command.
A command should not only include the “word” you use for the command, but also a specific “action” for that command. I use the command word “sit” at he same time I take my left hand (the one closest to the dog) and do a motion like I am “scooping up water”. I then give my dog a correction if he/she did not do what was asked. A correction with a pinch collar is a downward jerk on the lead, this will be done with your left hand, while holding the lead in your right hand. A correction should be done immediately after the command is given, and each and every time your dog does not to what is asked. It is important that this be done with repetition and consistency.
You should then start walking with your dog, and give them the sit command again and respond according to what they do. When you dog sits praise him/her, get excited and pet them, use a happy voice and have fun with them. This is so important! This lets your dog know what he is suppose to be doing, and how happy it makes you when he does it. These steps will need to be repeated, but if done right, your dog should be sitting on command with in one training session.
Many times if an owner is not seeing results it is because they are doing something wrong. If this is happing to you make sure you are correcting and rewarding immediately after the command is given. Timing is key to your success. Also make sure you are always giving the same command word and action each and every time, without this repetition and consistency your dog will get confused and not know what exactly you want. Make sure you are praising your dog and having fun with them when they do something right, this is why they are going to want to do things right, and how they will learn what right is.
Training is not just about your dog doing what they are told, it is about bonding with your dog, and making your dog happy to please you. This in turn makes the owner happy with their well behaved dog and builds a stronger bond between dog and owner. Trained dogs are safer, healthier, and show less signs of aggression. Training or “working” your dog will create a happier dog, and stronger bond between them and family.
Most owners will not get their puppy until around 8 weeks old, this is because 6-8 weeks is “puppy socialization period” this is when your pup should be spending time with other puppies and dogs. This is most commonly and recommended to be spend with the mother and siblings. So most owners will pick their puppy up when they are around 8 weeks old. This is the time when you should be introducing your puppy to it's new home and new family. This is a great time to spent playing and getting to know each other. If your puppy can have fun with you, he will be more eager to learn with you. Therefor training is recommended to be started at around 10 weeks of age.
Dogs love to please people and many dogs are happiest when they are working. Since most dogs now a days are not used for working, training gives them the opportunity to feel as if they are working for you. It keeps their mind active, as well as their bodies and gives you and your dog a chance to bond. The most important part of training a dog is a combination of repetition, consistency and praise, none less important then the other.
There are many resources out there that recommend using treats to train your dog. The problems people face when using this method are many and these include, always having to walk around with a pocket or hand full or treats. Dogs not responding to commands when there is nothing in it for them. Some people have also seen signs or aggression when they are trying to get their dog to “work” for them, when there are no treats involved. Also this can cause your dog to become unhealthy because of the amount of treats he is consuming. This method was not for me so I looked further I went to training classes where the training was done using a pinch collar (prong collar).
Many people think a pinch collar looks like a midevel torture device, but consider this a normal nylon collar, or a choke collar will actually cause more damage to your pet. When they are wearing these styles of collars you will hear your dog gasping for breath as it pulls, this is actually damaging their necks and trachea. A pinch collar when used properly with a downwards jerk on the lead, simply pinches the skin around the neck, in the same manner the mother would when teaching her pup. This method works for many reasons.
The “correction” you are giving your dog is not causing them any lasting harm, it is something that they have experienced since they were puppies from their mother. They already know that when they feel this they have done something wrong. It also accomplishes the task of focusing your dogs attention on you, he is working for you and waiting for his next task. The “reward” your dog receives for doing what he is asked is praise. This is something you do not run out of, it will not make your dog unhealthy, and it will create a stronger bond between both you and your dog.
The begin the sit command place the pinch collar around your dogs neck and attach a 6 foot lead. Your dog will want to be on your left side, so it is best to always have him sit there. This will make other commands easier, because your dog will always be on the same side. Hold the leash in your right hand, feel free to shorten it by holding it in a loose loop. You will stand with your dog on your left side, and give him the sit command.
A command should not only include the “word” you use for the command, but also a specific “action” for that command. I use the command word “sit” at he same time I take my left hand (the one closest to the dog) and do a motion like I am “scooping up water”. I then give my dog a correction if he/she did not do what was asked. A correction with a pinch collar is a downward jerk on the lead, this will be done with your left hand, while holding the lead in your right hand. A correction should be done immediately after the command is given, and each and every time your dog does not to what is asked. It is important that this be done with repetition and consistency.
You should then start walking with your dog, and give them the sit command again and respond according to what they do. When you dog sits praise him/her, get excited and pet them, use a happy voice and have fun with them. This is so important! This lets your dog know what he is suppose to be doing, and how happy it makes you when he does it. These steps will need to be repeated, but if done right, your dog should be sitting on command with in one training session.
Many times if an owner is not seeing results it is because they are doing something wrong. If this is happing to you make sure you are correcting and rewarding immediately after the command is given. Timing is key to your success. Also make sure you are always giving the same command word and action each and every time, without this repetition and consistency your dog will get confused and not know what exactly you want. Make sure you are praising your dog and having fun with them when they do something right, this is why they are going to want to do things right, and how they will learn what right is.
Training is not just about your dog doing what they are told, it is about bonding with your dog, and making your dog happy to please you. This in turn makes the owner happy with their well behaved dog and builds a stronger bond between dog and owner. Trained dogs are safer, healthier, and show less signs of aggression. Training or “working” your dog will create a happier dog, and stronger bond between them and family.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Why Training your Dog is Important
There are many reasons why you should choose to train your dog. If you own a dog you have probably already learned most of these reasons. If you are thinking of getting a dog there is much you should learn about why dog training is important. No matter where you are in dog ownership this article can be a helpful tool in understanding why training is so important.
A misbehaved dog can have many undesired consequences some worst then others; from bothersome behaviors like pushing through the door when you open it, to deadly behaviors like running onto a busy road. As pet owners we want whats best for our family as well as our dog, and that is what training is all about.
Studies have shown that dogs with no training (this doesn't have to be formal) are more likely to show signs of aggression. We want to avoid this at all cost. Our dogs may not only attack us or someone in our family, but also people passing by. Such an attack can result in a court order to have your dog put to sleep. This is not what any owner wants for the pet they love. The best way to avoid aggression is by training. May I also note that I do not advise training with food. This has also been known to cause aggression. Using food to motivate your dog can cause your dog to expect food and when it is not offered become aggressive and non responsive to you.
Another reason that it is important to train your dog is to be able to control them in dangerous situations. This could be in an open yard or park when playing fetch, near open roads or if they are going to ingest something poisonous to them. No matter how smart your dog is they often act on impulse! This means that when a squirrel runs past your dog and onto the road your dog is going to follow. However with proper training you will be able to control your dog, thus saving his/her life!
Then there are reasons that are not as serious but still important. You have to live with your dog everyday; they are living in your house and just like our children we need to set rules. The little things can make all the difference. Consider this when opening the door to go outside; do you want your dog pushing through the door? Other bothersome behaviors misbehaved dogs posses is trying to eat their food while you are trying to put food in the dish, jumping on people ( this can be really dangerous with small children), following behind your feet and making your trip over them (or step on their paws), chewing everything in your house, annoying company, begging for food.
There are many other behaviors an untrained dog can acquire. None of which are desirable, some are very dangerous. The good news is by training your dog, you can prevent or stop these behaviors if they are already occurring. A dog is never too old!
Along with all the benefits training has for safety and to rid bothersome behaviors. It doesn't stop there training your dog can give you even more. Training is an amazing bonding experience for both of you. When you are working with your companion you are learning to work as a team, with you the leader. It can give your dog confidence, and it makes him more aware of you and what you want from him/her. The training method I use is based on praise that is the motivation. This forms a loving bond between me and my dog. She is also more enjoyable to be around for my family and company. You will be amazed at the dynamic relationship you can have with a well behaved, trained dog.
A misbehaved dog can have many undesired consequences some worst then others; from bothersome behaviors like pushing through the door when you open it, to deadly behaviors like running onto a busy road. As pet owners we want whats best for our family as well as our dog, and that is what training is all about.
Studies have shown that dogs with no training (this doesn't have to be formal) are more likely to show signs of aggression. We want to avoid this at all cost. Our dogs may not only attack us or someone in our family, but also people passing by. Such an attack can result in a court order to have your dog put to sleep. This is not what any owner wants for the pet they love. The best way to avoid aggression is by training. May I also note that I do not advise training with food. This has also been known to cause aggression. Using food to motivate your dog can cause your dog to expect food and when it is not offered become aggressive and non responsive to you.
Another reason that it is important to train your dog is to be able to control them in dangerous situations. This could be in an open yard or park when playing fetch, near open roads or if they are going to ingest something poisonous to them. No matter how smart your dog is they often act on impulse! This means that when a squirrel runs past your dog and onto the road your dog is going to follow. However with proper training you will be able to control your dog, thus saving his/her life!
Then there are reasons that are not as serious but still important. You have to live with your dog everyday; they are living in your house and just like our children we need to set rules. The little things can make all the difference. Consider this when opening the door to go outside; do you want your dog pushing through the door? Other bothersome behaviors misbehaved dogs posses is trying to eat their food while you are trying to put food in the dish, jumping on people ( this can be really dangerous with small children), following behind your feet and making your trip over them (or step on their paws), chewing everything in your house, annoying company, begging for food.
There are many other behaviors an untrained dog can acquire. None of which are desirable, some are very dangerous. The good news is by training your dog, you can prevent or stop these behaviors if they are already occurring. A dog is never too old!
Along with all the benefits training has for safety and to rid bothersome behaviors. It doesn't stop there training your dog can give you even more. Training is an amazing bonding experience for both of you. When you are working with your companion you are learning to work as a team, with you the leader. It can give your dog confidence, and it makes him more aware of you and what you want from him/her. The training method I use is based on praise that is the motivation. This forms a loving bond between me and my dog. She is also more enjoyable to be around for my family and company. You will be amazed at the dynamic relationship you can have with a well behaved, trained dog.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Choosing the right collar and leash for training your dog
Choosing the right collar and leash for your dog is very important! It should be done with consideration, and information. Why is choosing the right collar and leash so important? This is a question that I get asked quite frequently. The answer is simple yet complexed all at the same time. Simply put the collar and leash that you choose will be something you use everyday, and will determine the success of your training.
A leash and collar should not only be used for taking your dog for a walk, or keeping them close by and out of trouble. A leash and collar is the way you are able to teach your dog, train them to obey you. If done properly training your dog is a great bonding experience for both of you. It will also result is a very well behaved dog.
There are many choices out there when you are looking to purchase a leash and collar and prices range as much as the products do. You can choose between nylon leashes, rope, retractable, and leather to name the most common. When choosing collars the most common are choke, nylon, leather, and pinch (also known as prong). So with all these choices and little information, making the choice can be overwhelming for some, and others will choose the cheapest option because after all they don't know the difference so “why not” they think. There is however a big difference in these types of collars and leashes, especially when you are looking for a collar and leash to train your dog with.
First I would like to let everyone know about the damages that a collar can cause to a dog.
To read this article in full and learn what you need to know click here
A leash and collar should not only be used for taking your dog for a walk, or keeping them close by and out of trouble. A leash and collar is the way you are able to teach your dog, train them to obey you. If done properly training your dog is a great bonding experience for both of you. It will also result is a very well behaved dog.
There are many choices out there when you are looking to purchase a leash and collar and prices range as much as the products do. You can choose between nylon leashes, rope, retractable, and leather to name the most common. When choosing collars the most common are choke, nylon, leather, and pinch (also known as prong). So with all these choices and little information, making the choice can be overwhelming for some, and others will choose the cheapest option because after all they don't know the difference so “why not” they think. There is however a big difference in these types of collars and leashes, especially when you are looking for a collar and leash to train your dog with.
First I would like to let everyone know about the damages that a collar can cause to a dog.
To read this article in full and learn what you need to know click here
Monday, February 9, 2009
Training your dog - What you should know
Training your dog can be a very stressful time, with a very rewarding outcome. It is however very important to train, and there are many reason why you should. A lot of new pet owners may ask the question “Why is it important to train my dog?”
There are many reasons why it is important to train your dog. These range from things as simple as not pushing through the door, safety when on walks and off leash work. Taking the time to train your dog can make life simpler in more ways then you may initially think. Having a trained dog will become a blessing when you are trying to come in and out of a door, giving them medicine or flea treatments such as advantage, as well as when company is visiting and your dog is behaved and not jumping up. We only need to teach our dog 5 commands to control all of these behaviors and more. These are: sit, down, heel, stay and come. Many owners then teach their dogs other commands for purposes such as to perform tricks. This does not need to be done but most owners once they see the results of the training are so pleased that they want to push themselves and do more.
It is important for people to realize that training takes time, patience, and consistency. All of these things should be considered. When you first get your puppy they will be hyper and running around so full of energy. This is how they appear, but actually your puppy needs to sleep many hours through a day. Dogs need much more sleep then humans, if you watch your dog closely you will notice that once they run around, they will go lay down and sleep. This works except if someone comes in or something different happens in the house. Then your dog starts running around, this can cause your dog to become over tired and cranky. It is important to make sure your dog gets enough rest to ensure ....
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