Dog Training: Teaching Your Dog Basic Obedience

Being a dog owner is a rewarding experience. Having something that depends on you, loves you and plays with you is something that many people enjoy. While it is a lot of fun having a pet, it is also a lot of hard work. It is much easier, though, if you train your dog to be obedient. Continue reading to learn some tips on how you can make sure your dog has his manners.

First of all, you will need to establish with your dog that you are the leader. If he knows you are the leader, he will be more likely to take commands from you. Do not let your dog be the boss; that is the position he wants, but it needs to be yours if you want your dog to be well behaved. You need to mean what you say and not continue to let your dog get away with behaviors that are unacceptable.

Next, train your dog to use a leash and collar. Your training efforts will be much easier and more effective if your dog is comfortable wearing the collar and using the leash. You can start by using it for a few minutes each day and upping the time a minute or two every couple days. This will help your dog get used the leash and collar and not fight you when you want to put it on him.

Be consistent in your use of commands. You will need to use the same command for the desired behavior each time. Your dog cannot read your mind and will become confused if you are not clear in what you want. For example, what word do you want to use to get your dog to go out of the house? You can use "out" or you could use "go" or you could come up with your own command, but it needs to be consistent each time you want the behavior performed. It is also important that anyone who is ever around your dog uses these same commands, too.

Use positive reinforcement with your dog. Anytime your dog displays a desired behavior, let him know how happy you are about it. Tell him how proud you are, and shower him with extra love or a treat. By showing your appreciation, your dog will begin to show the desired behavior more and more just to get the positive attention. This works much better than screaming and yelling at a dog that is showing an undesired behavior. You will want to correct an undesired behavior, but many times you can do this by redirecting your dog's attention to something he should be doing.

Teaching your dog how to obey is one of the best things you can do for both you and your dog. Both of you will be much happier and your time together will be more enjoyable. Try the tips shared here and you can have a dog that is ready to obey your commands.