What To Know About Dog Training

Dog training is an exciting journey for pet owners. You can teach a puppy various instructions or train an old dog on new tricks. At Prime K9 Dog Training, we offer professional training services to help owners improve their relationships with their dogs. Working with an experienced team is the best way to train your dog. You'll learn the basics of dog behavior, how to reinforce good traits, and how to remove unwanted ones. 

7 Things You Should Know About Training a Dog

Any dog can learn a few things to make life more enjoyable for you as the owner. You don't want a dog that jumps on guests, bolts out the front door, or poops in the house. Some dogs are aggressive on the leash, bark incessantly, and steal food from the counter. Our professional dog trainers have years of experience and know how to reach your goals. We can help you create a happy relationship with your pet. Here are seven things to know about training a dog:

1.   Perform All Training on a Leash

Training a dog requires control, and a leash helps you achieve that. A controlled dog is usually calm, attentive, focused, and ready to respond to your instruction. Using a leash gives you more control because you can calmly maintain your dog's attention. You shouldn't misuse the power by yanking the leash hard when your dog doesn't listen. The leash helps you keep the animal focused on the instructions when they get bored or distracted.

2.   Train Your Dog Consistently

Dog training programs require consistency. You should establish a routine involving spending several minutes training the dog. Regular training sessions with an upbeat attitude will build trust and affection with the dog. Train the dog a couple of times a day. Some days your dog will fly through commands, and other days you'll feel like they forgot everything. Don't skip the training sessions. End on a good note, with the dog performing the command successfully.

3.   Start With Basic Commands

Start with the basics if you're training a puppy or adult dog that doesn't understand your language. Dogs can master various commands commonly used by owners, including sit, stay, and heel. The sit command serves as the foundation for down and stay commands. After your dog masters basic commands, you can train the dog to stop barking or chewing items other than bones and chew toys. Train the dog to socialize and remain comfortable around family and other pets.

4.   Use Lures & Treats Wisely

Lures and treats are perfect for getting a dog's attention. You can use them to train your dog to sit and respond to various cues. Treats can also help you reinforce positive behavior when you catch your dog being good. Dogs love delicious treats, but you should use them wisely. Focus on good behavior and reward your dog when they've performed the techniques. The treat should be soft so the dog and quickly swallow and resume the session.

5.   Leverage Capturing & Markers

At Prime K9 Dog Training, we emphasize capturing and markers when training dogs. Capturing is when you spot your dog or puppy doing something good. Dogs do many good things during the day, even if briefly. Don't get caught up in the bad stuff your dog does. Remember to praise and reward dogs for good behavior. Markers are short brief signals you use when the dog has done something good or when you want to provide a treat. Here are some popular markers:

• Sound like clicks, beeps, and whistles 
• Short words like “yes, nice, good”
• Thumbs up gestures
• Gentle shoulder and head rubs/touches

6.   Adjust Your Expectations

Training a dog, especially a puppy, requires patience. Puppies don't know our language and are easily excited and distracted. Keeping them focused long enough to learn requires dedication, consistency, and understanding. Your dog needs time and repetition to learn and associate the commands with affection. Expect ups and downs during the marathon. It takes genuine care and closeness to understand and train your dog. If you don't have the time, call for help.

7.   Work With a Leading Trainer

The best approach to training a dog is through a licensed trainer. Dog trainers are compassionate and experienced in the trade. They know how dogs behave and react to different cues and stimuli. Trainers can also read the dog’s moods and determine when something is wrong. Working with a professional will help you learn more about your dogs and how you should train them. You’ll also get the best instructions and insights.

Professional Dog Training Services

Training a dog can make life easier for you and your furry friend, but it requires time and consistency. Dogs can learn fast if you use the proper techniques. Improper training techniques can confuse the dog and lead to more issues. If your dog has traits you want to remove, hire an experienced trainer. Leading trainers can work with all dogs and have a history of working with pets.

Professional dog training saves you the time and effort needed to reinforce positive behavior in your pet. At Prime K9 Dog Training, we help you develop a new understanding of your dog’s behavior. Our trainers can help you build a closer, more effective relationship with your dog. We have unique programs customized to fit your training needs and work with all dogs, including pups and adults.