Just like we humans, dogs aren’t born knowing what to do. They need help to learn how to stay safe, and what it means to have good manners.
Lack of training is one of the top reasons our canine friends end up in animal shelters. Being a good guardian involves positive training of your dog. It is good for you and your pup, and helps build the bond between you!
Here are some top training tips:
1. Make training fun and positive!
- Keep it simple and be patient.
- Practice a few minutes every day.
- Use rewards that your pet loves most - yummy treats, toys, kind words (wag your tail if you like to hear “good dog!”), and gentle touch. Different dogs have different personalities, find what works best.
2. Get the whole family involved. Make sure that everyone in the house (including friends and guests) is consistent with the family rules, so your dog does not get confused. Teaching children the importance of pet training is a lifetime gift to them and their future pets.
3. Reward quickly – your pet needs to know what they did right!
4. Never hit, yell at, or do anything to harm your pet. These negative methods are cruel and build fear, not a healthy bond with your furry family member.
5. You can use hand signals as well as commands. Again, just remember to be consistent.
Don’t believe that “old dogs can’t learn new tricks!” Your dog can learn at any age, and today is the day to start working on basics like sit, down, stay, come and heel. Work on fun tricks such as touch, which can be used as the basis for a lot of other cool tricks.
And as we enter the new year, resolve to take more walks with your dog. Work on leash training and avoiding distractions.
Don’t have a pup? Maybe someone in the neighbourhood — a senior perhaps — could use a volunteer dog walker. A dog that is looking forward to their walk is very convincing, and will help you stay on track with your exercise goals.
A happy, healthy and safe new year to all!
Alistair Schroff is with Increased ACCESS (formerly Lakes Animal Friendship Society).
