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Obedience is one of the best things you can do for your dog or puppy and yourself. Obedience training alone will not solve all behavioral problems, but it is the foundation that you can build upon to solve just about any problem. By training your dog, you open up a line of communication between the two of you. You will use effective communication to instruct your dog about what you want her to do. You can teach her commands, such as stay (don't run out the door), sit (don't jump on company), and off (don't chew on the furniture). Obedience is also an easy way to establish the social hierarchy. When your dog obeys a simple request, such as come here, or sit, she is showing compliance and respect for you. You can teach your dog her subordinate role by teaching her to show submission to you in a paw raise (shake hands), roll over, or hand lick (give a kiss). Most dogs love doing this for you, and in doing so they are acknowledging that you are in charge. Obedience training should be not only be rewarding, but fun for you and your dog. It can make your relationship and lives together more enriched and enjoyable. You can give a well-trained dog a greater amount of freedom than one that is not trained. You know if you need them they will come when called. You can begin the training process as a puppy or as an adult. It is never too early or too late to begin teaching and training your puppy or dog. I recommend that you enroll in obedience classes at a local Petsmart. There you will have a certified dog trainer teaching you how to teach your pet. Your dog will also receive interaction with other dogs, which is good for socialization. It is my belief that you should be the one who teaches your dog the tricks (commands), after all, it is you you want her to listen to, and a bond will be formed. Keep the obedience training sessions short and sweet. It is important for you to make it fun for your dog, it will make it easier for her to learn. Make it interesting and meaningful for her. Incorporate it into your daily routine. Make it part of your dogs favorite activities, so that training will become one of your dogs favorite activities. Once your dog has mastered the obedience commands, or so you think, add in some distractions. Sure it is great if your dog sits and stays, but what good is it if she doesn't do it when company is around. I cannot stress how important it is for you to reward and praise your dog for good behavior. The more you reward her the quicker she will learn. Praise and reward are the most important parts of maintaining good behavior and preventing problems from arising. If most of your interaction with your dog is praise and reward, for good behavior, then reprimands will take on much more meaning. Whenever you find the need to reprimand your dog, immediately show her what you want her to do, then reward and praise her for getting it right. If you use a short, sharp, immediate voice to correct your dog, that should be enough. Remember to never reprimand your dog unless you catch her in the act, and NEVER hit, kick, slap, or spank your dog. This will do more harm than good. Good luck with your training. I know that if you work diligently you can accomplish anything, and your dog will Thank You!
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Obedience
Training