Pet Dog Training–What Should Your Dog Learn?
Pet dog training is a staple of dog ownership. You can’t just let your dog run wild, or he will tear up the whole house and run your life, rather than you running his. Dogs are pack animals, and they will naturally follow the clear leader of the household. However, if there IS no clear leader, don’t be surprised if your dog decides that HE is the leader. If he comes to this conclusion, believe us, he WILL bend you to his will, whether you realize it or not. That’s why training him right away is essential to a good relationship between the two of you.
Pet dog training should begin as soon as you bring home your new pet. This is true whether he is a puppy or a grown dog. Contrary to the old saying, you CAN teach old dogs new tricks. The key with any dog is to be firm and commanding, but gentle, and to never frighten or hurt the dog in any way. Instead, you will be teaching your dog to obey you by earning his respect, rather than his fear. You want your relationship to be close, so don’t do anything to mess that up during your training sessions.
You can often train your dog on your own, using tips and tricks found in books on the subject. Most dogs learn very easily. If you need help in getting your dog to accept you as leader of the pack, you should probably watch some episodes of “The Dog Whisperer” to help you learn what to do in that area.
If your dog just isn’t getting it, then you may want to accomplish your pet dog training through obedience school. This is where both you and your dog go to a training class together with other dogs to learn to behave as a group. Not only will your dog learn how to behave around humans, you will learn how to relate to your dog better and to establish the camaraderie you want to have with him. However you accomplish dog training, be sure you do it, and your life with your dog with be smooth and happy.
