How To Train A Dog: What You Need To Know

There’s a saying that a trained dog is a happy dog. Ask any dog. Well, you may not be able to ask a dog, but you can ask their owners and they will tell you that trained dogs do seem to be happier. They understand what is expected of them. They know the rules. They have better communication with their owners.

There is much less frustration and unhappiness in the home. And dogs and their owners have a closer bond when the owner has spent time training the dog. If you are wondering how to train a dog, it’s not really that hard, but it does take some dedication on your part. Here is what you need to know.

1. How to train a dog: getting started

To get started with training your dog you will need to have some basic equipment. You don’t need too much equipment for basic dog training, but you will need a few things. For positive reinforcement training your dog will need a flat buckle collar and a leash to match. A nylon collar and leash are fine. Make sure the collar fits properly. You should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s throat. The collar should not be too loose or too tight or the collar won’t work properly.

The leash should be about six feet long. You will also need a cord, either nylon or cotton, that’s about 15 feet long, to teach your dog to come when you call. You will need some very small treats. You can use anything that your dog really likes such as tiny hotdog bits, bits of cheese, popcorn, pieces of kibble, and so on. You can keep the treats in a pocket or you can get a small pouch that attaches to your belt or the waist of your pants. It should be easy for you to reach for the treats as you will be using them often.

If you are going to be doing clicker training you will need a small metallic clicker. These are very inexpensive ($1-2) and sold at pet stores or you can buy them online. That’s about all you need to get started training your dog if you are using positive reinforcement methods. For traditional dog training you will need a slip chain (often called a “choke”) collar. This collar should also fit your dog properly or it won’t work right. You should still be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s throat. Make sure you put the collar on properly. It should form a “p” shape with the loose end facing you on the left side of the dog. If the collar forms a “q” shape, with the loose end on the right side of the dog, it is on incorrectly and it won’t work.

2. How to train a dog: working at home or joining a class?

When it comes to how to train your dog, you can either work at home alone, or you can join a class. You can train your dog successfully either way. If you would like to attend a class with your dog, check with your local kennel club, pet store, animal shelter, or dog training center to find classes. All of these places usually offer classes from time to time. Try to talk to the trainer to find out what training method they use, what kind of experience they have had, and see how you like them. A class that has eight to 10 people and dogs in it is usually acceptable and you will get enough attention from the trainer to be worth your while. If the class has more people and dogs in it than that, however, you may get lost in the shuffle.

If you would like to try training your dog at home, there are many good books on dog training, as well as CDs, DVDs, and other training resources. Or you may want to talk to a trainer about taking private lessons. A trainer who comes to your home to teach you and your dog usually charges more than a typical dog training class, but the cost may be worth it because you get all of the trainer’s attention. You can learn a lot during these private sessions. Sessions at your home may be good to consider if you work unusual hours and can’t make it to group classes, too.

3. How to train a dog: basic lessons

No matter what you ultimately want to do with your dog, nearly all training begins with teaching your dog some basic obedience lessons. These lessons include commands such as sit, lie down, stay, come, heel, and how to walk on a loose leash. Most obedience courses are designed to cover these lessons in about six to eight weeks, and teach a different command each week. Most dogs should have no problem learning commands at this rate. If you are part of a group, you will usually meet once a week (perhaps twice) and go over the new command, then practice it in class.

At home you should practice with your dog in two or three short (15-20 minutes) sessions per day. Dogs learn best in several short sessions instead of one long marathon session. If you don’t practice with your dog, he won’t learn. It’s as simple as that. If you only practice the command when you are in class, your dog will not learn the command very well. So, it’s up to you to practice with your dog and make your practice sessions fun. The more fun you make your sessions, the more you and your dog will enjoy them. Don’t train when you are in a bad mood. Your dog will be able to sense it. Stay upbeat and happy when you are training and it will be fun for your dog.

Most dogs enjoy learning and doing things with their owners, including obedience lessons. If you want to know how to train a dog, the answer is to try to have fun with your dog while you are training. When you teach your dog a new command, try to make a game out of it. The more fun it is, the faster your dog will learn. Use praise and rewards. Keep your lessons short so your dog’s attention doesn’t wander. And remember that these lessons are for both you and your dog because they are something that you will both benefit from throughout your lives together.

Related Articles:

Agility Training For Dogs: Something Fun For Both Of You!

Clicker Training For Dogs: A Fun Way To Train

Dog Training Methods Explained

How To House Train A Dog: The Basics Of Potty Training

Obedience Training For Dogs: What Every Dog Should Know