To help make training easier for you, here's a list of Top 10 Training Do's and Don'ts:
DO
- Focus on your dog. Bring him into your world by understanding his instincts and natural behaviours.
- Be honest. Never fool him into doing what you want or tease him with commands you teach.
- Begin each command with the end in sight. Reward him lavishly—but only when she completes the task you've set.
- Be consistent. Always use the same words for desired behaviours and the same tone of voice.
- Think ahead. Anticipate your dog's actions before she moves.
- Reward immediately.
- Teach one command at a time.
- Be patient. Allow enough time for your pooch to take in your command and then act.
- Enjoy yourself. Play with your dog before and after each training session.
- Be kind. A poorly trained dog is the fault of the trainer, not the dog.
DON’T
- Don't allow others to pamper him any more than you. You're the de facto alpha dog in your home pack—and he must look to you for leadership.
- Don't finish a training session on a bad note. Remain positive and praise him for progress.
- Don't punish him while you're angry.
- Don't lose your temper.
- Don't chase him. The idea is to make him come to you.
- Don't deceive. Never shower him with praise to bring him to you and then punish him because he's been naughty.
- Don't repeat. Be patient, but don't overuse commands.
- Don't discipline for disobedience, unless you're certain that he understood the command you gave. Discipline and punishment are two very different things.
- Don't reward your dog for a given behaviour, then, later admonish him for the same behaviour. Consistency is crucial.
- Don't allow anybody else to command.
If your efforts are unsuccessful, then talk to a professional trainer.
