Knowledge is power, and if you know exactly what goes on in your dog’s head, training them can be easier than ever. Many experts say that they can speak to dogs, and they know exactly what they think. Believe it or not, you can study the behavior of your four-legged friend and understand their preference to implement changes into your training schedule, making it more effective. Whether you are a professional dog trainer, or just want your pet to respond to some basic commands, you will find the below steps useful.
All Dogs Like Being Praised
Praise works much better than punishment with kids and dogs alike. Dogs love being praised, and they are proud of their achievements. Make sure that you keep on moving the goal post and target, so your pet has a new challenge every day. In some cases, praising your dog can be more effective for training than treats. It also helps you communicate the standards of behavior with your dog.
Understand Your Dog’s Preferences
Does your dog like doing exercises for hours, or does he get tired easily? Would they prefer a familiar environment, or do they like exploring? Are they easily distracted by other dogs or wildlife? Every dog comes with a unique personality, and while dog trainers say that there are some general rules, you have to listen to the signs of likes and dislikes when creating an exercise or training schedule.
Find Out What Works
Does your dog have a favorite toy or treat? Find out more about his dog taste now. You can get help from experts who can design the nutrition content of your unique dog treat or food that optimizes the diet of your pet. Take into consideration the age of your dog, his history, and how long he has been living with you. Ask the previous owner about his habits if you just adopted a new friend. Learn from fellow dog owners about designing a tasty diet and adding healthy treats that your dog prefers.
Understand Your Dog’s Feelings
Even though dogs cannot talk to you, they can understand commands and let you know what they like and dislike. If you learn to pay attention to the signs of distress and joy, you are halfway to understanding a dog’s wish. Your dog - just like people - wants to be loved, looked after, and considered useful. He will bring you items he finds valuable, and protects you from those he considers enemies. Listen to his behavior and you will see a clear pattern.
“Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend” by Soggydan Benenovitch is licensed under CC BY 2.0
When you are planning to train your dog or making him more obedient, you might need to learn to read his emotions and preferences. Look up his history, ask experts, and use praises often along with healthy treats to make him feel comfortable, accepted, and a part of your tribe. This way, you can build a long lasting valuable relationship with your dog. Never let him down, and he will reward you with his friendship forever.