Too
many dogs are given up after their normal, easily modifiable behaviors are
allowed to become problems. But it doesn't have to be this way. To prevent
your dog from becoming a sad statistic, take your dog—and your family—to a
professional dog training class. A good training class is a fun, social
activity that helps your dog become a well-behaved, safe, and valued family
member. This information will help you find the dog trainer and class
environment that best fits your budget and needs.
Why is training my dog a necessity?
As a dog owner, one of the first questions you may ask is, Does my new
companion need training? Yes, and so do you! Whether you are intentionally
teaching him or not, your canine friend is always learning—and this is true
not just for puppies but also for older, adult dogs. If you do not teach
your pet your rules, he will invent his own. Training allows caregivers to
safely and humanely control their dog's behavior. Positive training enhances
the bond between dog and owner, and helps ensure that your dog will respond
happily to your instructions.
What should I look for in a trainer?
It's essential that the dog trainer you select uses humane training
techniques that encourage appropriate behavior through such positive
reinforcement as food, attention, play, or praise. Look for a trainer who
ignores undesirable responses or withholds rewards until the dog behaves
appropriately. Training techniques should never involve yelling, choking,
shaking the scruff, tugging on the leash, alpha rolling (forcing the dog
onto his back), or other actions that frighten or inflict pain.
Where can I find a trainer?
A recommendation from a friend, neighbor, veterinarian, humane society,
boarding kennel, or groomer is a good place to start. You can also check the
Yellow Pages under "Pet Training." Don't assume that a trainer's membership
in a dog trainer association qualifies him as a suitable instructor: Not all
associations' membership criteria will meet your expectations. Also, because
no government agency regulates or licenses trainers, it's that much more
important to investigate their qualifications before enrolling in a class.
Find out how many years of experience they have, how they were educated, and
what training methods they use. Ask prospective trainers for several
references from clients who completed the classes.
Which class format is best?
In group classes, dogs learn to interact with other dogs, accept handling
by other people, and respond to their owners despite distractions. Owners
learn by observing other people interacting with their dogs and benefit from
the camaraderie. Self-help training, private lessons, and dog-only lessons
that exclude the owner do not provide these important advantages. Another
disadvantage of dog-only lessons is that the dog may respond well for the
trainer but may not transfer what she has learned to you and your family.
When possible, all family members should participate in the dog's
training. By learning to communicate humanely and effectively with their
canine friend, they will develop bonds that will form the basis of the
entire relationship.
Up
Aggression
Barking
Basic Training Techniques
Caring for Your Dog
Choosing a Dog Trainer
Crate Training
Destructive Chewing
Digging
Dog Toys
Do You Chain Your Dog
Dominant Dogs
Eating Strange Objects
Escaping
Fear of Thunder
Fearful Dogs
Housetraining
How to Use a Head Halter
Introducing Pets to a New Dog
Positive Reinforcement
Puppy Behavior Basics
Puppy Chewing
Puppy Nipping and Rough Play
Separation Anxiety
Stay Dog Bite Free
Submissive and Excitement Urination
Urine-Marking Behavior
Using Aversives to Modify Your Dog's Behavior
Removing Pet Stains and Odors
Dog Who's Left Outside
Dogs and Pickup Trucks Don't Mix
