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Solid Advice On Getting Your Dog Under Control
People say that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. Hopefully we can help you prove them otherwise with the tips and tricks in this article. All of the methods have been hand picked for your older dog that you either have never trained, never trained well, or obtained from someone else.
If you are trying to crate train your dog or puppy you must understand that you can not expect them to be able to hold their bladders for extremely long periods. You must provide times for them to go to the bathroom. They don’t want to go in their special place. So it is up to you to take care of them. If they have a accident don’t get mad at them, it wasn’t their fault it was yours.
A clicker and a few treats can be a very effective method of training your dog. Because a clicker can be easier for a dog to understand than a voice command, lessons can be quick and productive. Training sessions should not be longer than about fifteen minutes, since dogs do have short attention spans.
If possible, position your dog’s crate next to your bed. This is a critical step in teaching him that is where you want him to sleep. Since you are still within sight he isn’t as likely to panic about having to stay in the crate for an extended period of time.
When it’s time to introduce house training to your dog, put him on a consistent schedule of eating and elimination. Then you will be aware when your dog needs to go outside to use the bathroom. Then he will become practiced at waiting until the right time.
Get in the habit of only giving your dog a direct command one time
It will seem easy to just repeat it over and over until he responds, but don’t do that. Instead, revisit the training until your dog understands that you expect him to react the first time you say something.
If you want your dog to bond with a favorite toy, such as a lovey or chewing object, make the toy a treat. Filling the toy with a wonderful smell or treat, such as peanut butter, can make it very enticing for your pup. If the toy is a kong style, fill it with his kibble for meals.
Allowing everyone in the family to tell your dog different things will completely defeat the purpose of training him. Have a family meeting or keep a list of dog training rules on the refrigerator to remind all people that interact with the animal to be consistent with commands, punishments and rewards. Otherwise the dog will be in a constant state of confusion and every family member will be completely frustrated.
A great way to train your dog to stop chewing items when you’re away from home is to catch them in the act. When you see your dog picking up an item, ready to take a bite, slowly take the item away from them and firmly, but in a gentle way tell them “no”.
In order to potty train your dog, it is important to praise them when they are successful at going outside. Dogs are more likely to continue their good behavior if they know they will get praise afterward. Tell them what a good dog they are, and give them a hug and kiss.
To relieve separation anxiety in your dog, give him plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog. Slip in and out of the house without making a big deal out of it. Sometimes saying goodbye to your pet increases his anxiety. If you notice that your pet has associated something like picking up keys with leaving, then start doing the action several times a day to quell negative feelings.
Never punish positive behavior
If your dog successfully goes to the bathroom outside, and then you leave him, it is as if you are punishing him after he has achieved the results that you desire. Instead, reward him by playing ball with him for a while or rubbing his belly.
In conclusion, training an older dog can prove to be extremely difficult but not impossible. Depending on how the dog has been raised, your challenge may vary greatly. As long as you follow the specialized tips provided in this article, you are set up for success in training your older dog.