Dog training is a task that demands the utmost level of attention,efficiency and patience. The process itself can be very challenging. Although there are many different techniques and methods when it comes to dog training, there are, however, certain set of principles which are Universal. Regardless of the breed of the dog, be it a Dalmatian, or an Alsatian, a fully-grown beast or a pup, these principles apply everywhere. These principles are the cornerstone of healthy and efficient training of the dog. These principles are:-
Consistency
Being consistent with the commands, that is, using the same command for a certain task until the dog grows familiar is one of the core principle of dog training. The use of different commands for the same task by the same or different person can confuse the dog. Therefore, it is preferred that once you choose a task, for example, telling the dog to stay out of the kitchen, you should stick to one command and enforce it regularly. It is imperative for you and every other member of the family to use the same commands and same tone of voice for respective tasks.
Timing
The timing of the acknowledgment of the dog’s actions is a crucial factor for successful dog training. If praised and reproached for certain actions on the spot, the dog tends to learn the pattern of behavior. If you see the dog performing a task, it is best for him or her to know. Similarly, if the dog is misbehaving, it is best to call him or her out on it. If these reactions are not given on time, later, the dog will pay no heed to your reactions or commands.
Patience Approach
It is a proven fact that dogs are creatures that love attention. They go on to do the silliest acts to draw human attention. They crave it and it is a motivational element for them. However, what we have to understand is that there are two kinds of attention, positive and negative. Positive attention is the attention that we give our dogs when they are behaving or when they successfully obey our commands. On the other hand, negative attention is the reaction that we give to their bad behavior. If you find yourself chasing your dog because he took off with your socks, you are feeding him negative attention. To the dogs, however, all the attentions are the same. And thus, if they find you react to their bad behavior, they will repeat it in the future to get your attention. Therefore, the owner is expected to ignore the dog’s bad behavior and encourage the good ones. This way, the dog will go on to become a well-behaved pet.
Training
Training a dog is an activity that should be done in a healthy and positive environment. Training done under any other circumstances might end up jeopardizing your future relationship with the dog. Furthermore, if you are not in the right headspace, that is, if you are frustrated or angry, it is best not to train the dog. It is likely that you will project your frustration on the dog. Thus, it is advised only to train your dog when you are in the right positive mindset.