10 Essential Tips for Training Your Dog

Heart
Heart
Heart

Use positive reinforcement techniques

Positive reinforcement training: Reward good behavior, avoid inadvertently rewarding unwanted behavior. Reinforce the association between good behavior and rewards.

Find the right reward

Rewarding dogs: Food motivates some, while others prefer soft treats. Non-food motivated? Try play or affection as rewards. Experiment and find what works.

Consistency is key

Consistency is key in dog training. Use the same words and tone consistently. Ensure everyone in the household follows the same rules for a clear message.

Train little and often.

Short, frequent training sessions work best. Keep sessions to 5 mins max to avoid distractions. Train in different locations and situations for generalization of commands

Build up in stages.

Break down complex behaviors into smaller parts. Reward progress, even small steps. Gradually build up to the complete behavior for effective training.

Make it fun

Make training fun for you and your dog! Keep it positive and mix it up. Incorporate play and teach tricks alongside obedience. Enjoy the process together

Praise the small things

Celebrate small wins and praise your dog for any improvement. Stay motivated and acknowledge progress during training sessions.

Work training into daily life

Incorporate training into your daily routine. Ask for commands before meals, walks, or playtime to maximize training opportunities.

Use your hands

Use hand signals along with verbal commands for better communication with your dog. Start with hand signals and gradually introduce verbal cues.

Consult a dog trainer or attend a training class.

Struggling with dog training? Contact a professional trainer or join a training class for effective results. Research, choose positive reinforcement techniques, and check reviews. Join our puppy classes at Small Door!