The Coach's
Corner. Training Tips For Fans of The K9 Coach
Never Issue a Command You Cannot (or Will Not)
Enforce
If you tell Fido to do something that he knows how to do --
expect that he does it every time you issue the command, no matter where you
are, or what distractions may be taking place. So be aware of when you issue a specific
command.
The
key to training is creating clear communication and expectations of what’s right and
what’s wrong between you and your dog. If you issue a command that your dog knows how to perform, and the dog
doesn’t comply and you do nothing to correct the missed command, the dog learns
you didn’t really mean it that time. They will start to wait every time to see
if you meant it or not. They can actually learn to wait for the 2nd or 3rd
repetition or the change in your voice or body language.
Yes,
they are that smart. And they will train you if you let them.
- When your dog gets the command right — give them lots of praise. This may be a pat on the head or just an enthusiastic "Good Boy!" Don't be stingy with your praise, let them know you're happy about what they've done. Your praise should be something your dog values and seeks out by trying to please you.
- If you dog fails to complete
the command -- issue a correction. if your dog has learned the meaning of
"no" --the correction might be a verbal "No" followed
by a repeat of the command, or a Verbal 'No" coupled with firm correction
such as quick snap/release on their leash, a Cesar-style touch on their
neck, etc if you're still training them to learn how to do something.
It's equally important for you to follow through on your end of
the training & expectations as it is for the dog to comply with the command
you've issued.
This
does not mean Fido can never relax or just be playful. Such discipline and
attention to commands may in fact help him to know when it's OK to just chill
and when he needs to be attentive. It will definitely create a better
relationship with you and your dog.
Need help teaching basic obedience commands? Want to get more advanced or
move to off-leash training? Have a serious behavioral issue developing or in
full swing -- we can help. Call us today.
Have a question you wanted answered in The K9 Coaches Corner --
post it on our FB page and your question may be featured in our next weekly
update!
Dana Brigman
The K9 Coach
Dog Training - Matthews, NC
980-339-8064
www.thek9-coach.com
info@thek9-coach.com
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The K9 Coach is a Professional Certified Dog Trainer Serving Charlotte, NC, Matthews, NC and surrounding areas.
My mission is a better life for dogs as members of a forever family.
My goal is create training solutions for the home owner, to rehabilitate dogs from shelters and rescues, and to prevent dogs from dying alone as strays or owner surrenders in shelters due to unnecessary aggression or behavioral issues.
Begin training with a consult with a professional trainer to be sure you're solving the right problem. Misdiagnosis can make the matters worse. Be sure that there are no medical issues at play and that your dog is not in pain, as pain can be a contributor to a new display of aggression. If you have any fear or uncertainty -- do not attempt the techniques without professional supervision.
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