Basic
Obedience Training
Basic obedience training is one of the best things you can do
for yourself and your dog or puppy. Training can strengthen the
bond between you and your pet, building understanding and mutual
respect. It can open up a means of communication that can become
a solid foundation for solving any behavior problems that might
arise.
Dog
will be dogs.
Dogs are social animals and will behave like animals without proper
training. Nearly all behavior problems that dogs exhibit are perfectly
normal canine activities that either occur at the wrong time or
place - or are directed at the wrong thing. For example, a dog
may soil the carpet rather than eliminating outside; he may bark
all night long instead of only when a prowler is near; or he might
chew the furniture instead of his own toys. Dogs must be taught
to redirect their natural behaviors to outlets that are acceptable
in the households of their human companions.
A
trained dog is a happier dog.
It's important to remember that you are responsible for teaching
your dog what is - and what is not - acceptable. Once you teach
your dog how you want him to behave, you'll have a happier household
- and a happier dog. A trained dog requires fewer restrictions
and so can be given greater freedom. When a dog is trained and
well-behaved, he is a pleasure to have around because he can go
almost anywhere without being a nuisance to others.
A
trained dog is a safer dog.
Obedience training can help prevent accidents and tragedies. Dogs
that have been taught to "come," "sit," "stay"
and "heel" can be led out of potentially dangerous or
emergency situations. For instance, if a trained dog gets free
from his leash and is running toward a busy street, he can be
stopped in his tracks with the "heel" command.
A
trained dog is a dog kept by his owner.
Statistics show that puppies that receive early socialization
and obedience training are far less likely to be turned over by
their owners to animal shelters than those who do not receive
this early training.
Getting
started is easy.
Obedience training should be fun and rewarding for both you and
your dog, not only enriching your relationship, but making living
together more enjoyable. There are as many methods available to
train your dog as there are venues for training. A little research
will go a long way when trying to decide what method and process
is best for you:
•
For do-it-yourselfers, there are a wide variety of training book
and videos written by training experts.
• Training classes are available in every town and city.
You can find classes listed in the Yellow Pages under "pet
training" or "dog training". Your local park or
recreation department may also offer classes.
• If you prefer one-on-one training with a private trainer,
experts are available in most areas.
• You can even learn how to train your dog using online
dog obedience training tutorials and courses.
For more detailed information on basic obedience
training, browse through these links:
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