Is your dog fully trained yet? If not, we strongly recommend that you take care of this as soon as possible. Proper training entails more than just teaching Fido appropriate behavior. It’s critical for his safety, as well as the safety of any people or dogs he interacts with. You do not need to be an expert to teach your dog simple commands like Sit and Stay. However, you should take training seriously and use suitable approaches. Continue reading as a local veterinarian in Bowmanville, ON highlights some of the most typical dog training mistakes.
Being Inconsistent
Fido’s training includes more than just teaching him his commands. You should also teach him some fundamental politeness. This might include everything from staying off the couch to not jumping on your sister’s boyfriend when he comes over. Always maintain consistency in whatever you choose. Don’t let your dog sleep in your bed one night and then chastise him for it the following. That will only teach your puppy that it makes no difference whether he obeys you or not. That is not the mindset you want to convey!
Not Employing Positive Reinforcement
Dog training methods vary greatly. We usually advise folks to avoid those that employ negative reinforcement. That includes things like shock collars and yelling. Using fear or pain as motivation can backfire in the long run and may even make your canine companion afraid of you. While these devices may have a place in some professional training environments, it is essential to keep things positive. Instead of focusing on his failures, thank your Fido for doing things well.
This is also significant for your canine companion’s view of training. You want Fido to enjoy ‘school’!
Boring Fido
Dogs have short attention spans, except when they are watching their humans grilling burgers. Fido will most likely lose interest in training after ten or fifteen minutes. Some puppies might not even make it that long! That’s okay. You can divide your pet’s training program into several short sessions.
Incorrect Class Curriculum
Man’s Best Friend may learn a variety of tricks and commands, including some that are quite precise and complex. That doesn’t mean you have to go all-out: not all canines must know how to fetch mail or turn lights off and on. However, there are a few fundamental commands that your canine companion must understand. Dog obedience cues include Sit, Stay Down, Heel, and Lay Down. Drop It and Leave It are also quite helpful. Work on these first before progressing to more sophisticated commands or cute tricks.
Bewildering Your Dog
Did you know that dogs are capable of learning over 165 words? That’s a lot! However, ‘Sit’ does not signify the same thing to Fido as ‘Fido, go sit down right now!’ Keep that in mind. When talking to your pet, always use the same words or phrases.
Not Testing Your Dog
Make sure that your dog is obeying directions rather than simply doing anything he thinks would get him a treat. Put your pet through his paces in various circumstances. For example, invite a friend with a dog over and see if Fido would still comply with his pal there.
Overfeeding
We already discussed the value of positive reinforcement. You want your dog to make a positive connection between the task or command you give him and the reward. Of course, praise and pets play a large role in this. However, treats usually seal the deal.
However, you must exercise caution in this situation. You don’t want to use big treats because you can wind up overfeeding your lovely student. Snacking during training is good. After all, they’re designed for it. Thin slices of hot dogs or chunks of shredded deli meat are also an option. Simply stay with safe options. For more information, consult with your veterinarian.
Not having fun
Our canine companions are incredibly observant and can detect our mood changes. You should only work with your pet when you are happy. Your dog will instantly detect whether you are stressed, depressed, or angry.
Of course, spending time with your dog can help lift your spirits on a terrible day. If they sense anything is wrong, many puppies will try to console their owners. It’s fine! Fido’s unconditional love is one of the reasons he is such a special gift.
Time It Correctly
You should work with your pet at the same time every day, even if only for a few minutes. Ideally, choose a moment when hestill has some energy but isn’t very excited. If Fido is eager to go for a stroll, he is unlikely to pay too much attention. You’ll also have a difficult time reaching your adorable student if he falls asleep in class.
Distractions
Choose a location where your furry buddy will not have much to focus on aside from you. If there’s a cat, squirrel, or cheeseburger around, your pup may struggle to concentrate on his schooling.
Giving Up
Our canine companions differ in many ways, and some learn faster than others. If you get stuck, don’t give up. That won’t benefit either you or your dog. In fact, in the long term, you may wind up with a dog that has behavioral disorders. If you feel you’ve reached a brick wall, contact a professional behaviorist.
Not Refreshing
Even when your canine companion has completed his basic obedience commands, have him practice them on occasion. This is excellent for your dog’s self-esteem. It’s also a fantastic way to ensure that the training sticks.
Training stops
Who says you have to quit after your pooch has learnt the fundamentals? Show Fido some cute tricks or try out some complicated commands.
Schedule an appointment at our Bowmanville, ON veterinary clinic
Do you need to bring your canine companion? Is Fido due for an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please do not hesitate to contact us if there is anything we can do to help. We are your neighborhood Bowmanville, ON pet clinic and are here to help!
