Doggie Tricks of the Trade

By Geraldine Dimarco

Most animal lovers can attest to a dog's happy and faithful nature that people just love. Despite this, many are reluctant in keeping a dog because training them is hard work. The good news is it doesn't have to be. Here are some easy tips that will help you have that fun and rewarding pet-owner relationship you've always wanted.

First thing you have to remember is that you have to establish your authority with the dog. He is after all an animal and will instinctively follow you better once he realizes this. Set ground rules that will allow him to acknowledge you as his superior. During meal times, let him watch you eat first then feed him afterwards. When you are crossing the room and he is blocking your path, dont go around him; instead push him gently out of your way. You are the leader of the pack and this is how it goes in the animal world. The earlier he learns you are his boss, the easier to teach him later on.

Dogs can pick up your emotions even as you handle them. Use a firm and authoritative voice in training. However, it is also important to note that dogs respond well to positive reinforcement. Give him doggie treats every time he correctly accomplishes a command. If he makes a mistake, you have to correct him during the time it happens not after. Train him for ten to fifteen minutes several times a day and be effusive in your praise with his performance.

You will notice that dogs have similar behavioral patterns indicative of their mood. When happy they wag their tails, have an open look and bark a happy sound. Angry dogs bare their teeth, growl and tense up. Understanding your dogs mood will allow you to gauge him better, subsequently giving you response time to be able to train him more effectively.

Training dogs requires patience. It's best to start them as young as six weeks but you can still teach an old dog new tricks. Remain calm and patient when things don't go well at first. Be consistent and he will be able to follow in time. Don't confuse your dogs by changing training time or systems. You might find yourself backtracking because this gets your dog confused.

When teaching your dog, do it in a place with no distractions. Colorful and moving objects can distract him and it will be harder to refocus his attention to you. A quiet backyard or any indoor fenced-in area works well.

Most importantly, don't forget the reason you have a dog. To have fun with him! All that teaching and training can get tiring sometimes. When that happens, stop and have a run around the park with him. Enjoy each other's company. Your canine friend will help you forget problems and think highly of you regardless of your of status, appearance, or performance. They are the best not because they can heel; they are the best because they love you no matter what. - 32401

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