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"Where learning is a pawsitive experience"

Serving South Orange County

At A Pooch’s Pace

 Tips for Dog Obedience Training

Learning is hard. Use rewards that your dog finds rewarding. For most dogs, that means really yummy treats. Not kibble or praise. So go ahead, and have them work for the good stuff. …small pieces of chicken, dehydrated beef liver, tiny pieces of cheese.

  • Keep your training sessions short. 5 -7 minutes several times per day is better than one long session. Your dog will learn more quickly and you both will enjoy training more. Always end each session with your dog being successful.
  • Make sure that you incorporate your dog’s natural desire to play into your training regimen. Ask your dog to sit before tossing a toy and teach your dog how to play a game of tug in a safe and controlled manner.
  • Use a clicker or a verbal marker, “YES” to teach your dog the exact behavior you want from them.
  • Never repeat a verbal cue like “SIT” over and over again. It will just teach your dog to ignore you.
  • Never scold or punish a dog for not coming when called. Always reward your dog with treats, praise, affection or toys when they do come to you.
  • Try not to wave your pointing finger in front of your dog’s face when training. Your dog will just be confused by your finger waving and will not be able to concentrate on what he is learning.
  • Do not  yank, pop, or give leash corrections to train your dog to walk nicely on a leash, stop annoying behaviors or give you attention. Leash corrections do not teach your dog anything, and can add anxiety, arousal, and frustration to their learning experience.
  • Always observe your dog’s body language while training.  A fearful, anxious, frustrated, or distracted dog does not learn well.  If necessary, change your environment or your methods to provide the best learning environment for your dog.
  • Remember, your dog will require many repetitions in several places before your dog truly understands what you want them to do. Be patient, be kind, be consistent.