Training your dog? Use these 10 tips to get started right now

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You have taken the leap and committed to a dog. Congrats! We all know what’s wonderful
about our pups, but it’s not always easy. A loving animal that minds its owner and behaves in a
certain way doesn’t just happen. It takes a lot of work. If you’re ready to train yourself and your
pup to behave, check out these 10 tips.

Tip 1: Understand the importance of dog training and identify your goals

No one wants an unruly pup. Figure out what you want for yourself and your pup. One of the
first things to consider is how to create the right kind of space for growth, which brings us to the
second tip.

Tip 2: Create the right environment

Preparation includes creating a trusting relationship and creating a positive environment that is
conducive to caring and growing is necessary. Make sure you have everything you need to get
started, then familiarize yourself with basic commands. Now, you’re ready to go.

Tip 3: Establish a Training Routine

You fill in the blanks as a trainer, but make sure you develop a routine. We know there are
many philosophies and frameworks and techniques used by many trainers, professional or
amateur. Perhaps the most important thing is the routine.

Tip 4: Set a consistent schedule

You want a pup to know what to do in “this” or “that” situation, right? Part of that includes being
consistent. Help your pup understand when you are working on behavior. Set aside specific
times to work together.

Tip 5: Keep the sessions short

Puppies are a lot like children in many ways. Attention spans are one way they are similar.
Imagine sitting a three-year-old human down in a desk and expecting hours of attentive and
productive learning time. No way, right? Think that way about puppies, too. Short sessions will
prevent boredom and promote interest.

Tip 6: Establish a Reward System

A simple explanation of teaching behavior: dogs will respond the way you want if you show
them what that means, consistently. If you ask for a certain behavior, and the dog obliges, use
positive reinforcement and reward with a treat. Do it again and again and again…

Tip 7: Keep commands simple

Teach basic commands. Start with things like “sit” and “stay,” using consistent hand signals for
each command. Once you get going, introduce new commands often and repeat them to ensure
success.

Tip 8: Be patient and problem solve

Troubleshooting difficult behaviors is a place one might struggle. When you run into trouble,
think about triggers for difficult behaviors. Address the root cause of the behavior. Do your best
to prevent unwanted behaviors and utilize alternative behaviors. Redirecting energy into positive
activities is one way to accomplish that, as is consistently practicing positive reinforcement.

Tip 9: Monitor Progress

You set goals in the beginning, right? How will you know whether you are meeting them? You
must monitor progress by assessing yourself and your pup along the way. You could journal,
make notes of successes and failures, and adjust the training plan as needed as one process.

Conclusion

That sounds like a lot to be aware of, right? That’s because it is! There will be challenges and
lessons learned, for sure. Personalities will become apparent for each member of the training
relationship. Our most important tip might just be our last.

Tip 10: Celebrate successes and Remain patient and consistent

You and this pup will be together for many years, so it’s important to take time to do things right,
develop the relationship, and stick to it. The reward at the end is definitely worth it.

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