- For the past month, I have been writing about the four essential commands for dog training. They are name recognition, sit, come and leave it. I some how forgot there is a fifth essential. That is taking the time to train!
So often people tell me they were too busy to work with their dog. Trust me, I understand. Life is busy. But, when you make the choice to have a pet, you also make a commitment. This includes finding the time to teach them acceptable behavior. And, the truth of the matter is, every interaction you have with your dog is teaching them something. Doesn't it make sense to take advantage of those moments and use them to the benefit of you and your dog?
I feel sure you find time to feed your dog or take it for a walk or play. If you have time for those daily activities, you can find the time to train.
Have your dog sit for his dinner. Have him sit for the leash. Have him sit before the door opens. These small requests go a long way to teaching your dog to look to you for guidance. When I as a trainer talk about being a leader for your pet, I do not mean physical domination. I mean your should be a kind and benevolent leader. You are clear with your commands and cues so your dog can understand and be compliant.
A simple game of fetch can be a great learning experience. Instead of mindlessly throwing the ball, have Spot sit first. Toss the ball and tell him go get it. As he returns, call him to come. Sure, he is coming anyway, but this is a perfect time to condition the response to the verbal command. When Spot comes, he sits politely again for another round of play...or is it training? Spot does not care as long as the interaction continues. Now you have taught him to sit when he is excited. You have reinforced his recall. That exact same amount of time has become a valuable training tool.
If you are watching television to relax after work, try some commercial training. As the advertising begins, train your dog. Practice some leave its. You do not even have to get up from your chair. Play some tug. This can teach Spot to wait for an invitation to play. You tug, have him drop the toy, sit and start again. This gets the dog excited and teaches him to calm down. It allows you to initiate the game rather than have the dog demand attention. Again, you do not have to move, the dog does the work.
Be creative about finding the time to train your dog. It is worth the effort. Your dog will become the accommodating companion you are looking for.
Cissy Sumner of Best Behavior Dog Training is Vero's first Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge and Skills Assessed and Certified Behavior Counselor Canine-Knowledge Assessed as well as a Consulting Trainer and Behavior Counselor for the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County. If you have a training or behavior question, email Cissy at bbdogtraining@bellsouth.net or visit www.bestbehaviordogtraining.org for additional information.
This story is contributed by a member of the Treasure Coast community and is neither endorsed nor affiliated with TCPalm.com
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