How to Train a Dog: Essential Tips for New Bedford Pet Owners
Training a dog is something that doesn’t just happen overnight. Many professional dog trainers will tell you that training habits for pets need to be established throughout the dog’s lifetime. Learning how to train a dog is as much for the human as it is for the dog. Sometimes our bad habits and lack of consistency are to blame for the pet’s negative behavior. However, there are other times when behavioral issues require the support and treatment of your local, trusted veterinarian. New Bedford pet owners who suspect that their pet may need medical help in addition to training should schedule an appointment with our Dartmouth animal hospital.
Whether you have just adopted a brand new puppy or rescued a senior dog from the shelter, it is important to address training issues right away. While things like housebreaking and not chewing on the furniture are some of the first things that you will want to take care of, there are other training habits for pets that you will want to engage as well. Some skills are very basic and should be used as a foundation for more complex training in the future. As a dog trainer, the best thing you can do for your dog is to learn how to be patient, stay positive throughout the training experience, stay aware of your tone and body language, and keep sessions short, between 10 and 15 minutes tops.
How to House Train Your Dog
House training or house breaking is done with the ultimate goal of getting your dog to only do his “business” outdoors instead of inside your home. This can be challenging for new puppies, but also for older shelter dogs that may be scared or unsure of a new situation. Visit your local Dartmouth animal hospital for a check-up before you start learning how to train a dog. If your new friend has any medical issues that might make house training more difficult, it is good to know ahead of time before you get frustrated. This will make it a much more positive experience for both you and your dog.
- limit access to the majority of the home, keeping your dog in a non-carpeted area; crate-training may also be done at the same time if there is no space indoors to keep your dog during this process
- create a routine that includes feeding, walks, and potty breaks to encourage good training habits for pets
- do not punish your dog if an accident happens; simply clean up the mess and stay consistent with all other training methods, keeping the end goal in mind
- reward your dog for good behavior, providing a treat as soon as he goes in the spot that you want him to go in outdoors
Train Your Dog to Come and Stay
Two of the most important commands for your dog’s safety include “come” and “stay.” Learning how to come and stay when called can keep your pet safe in potentially dangerous situations. Start by training on a leash and in an area that is quiet and without distractions. Back away from your dog and start telling him to come to you in a very enthusiastic manner. If your dog still won’t come to you, show him a treat, but stay excited and happy to see him. The moment your dog starts moving toward you say “YES” in a very positive and hyped way, rewarding him with a treat once he arrives. Gradually increase the distance and test the training in busy situations over time.
Stay is similar, but not just in reverse. Stay isn’t just about “stay where you are,” it’s about staying still. You can choose to have your pet in a sitting and down position, but tell them to stay. After he stays for a little bit, go ahead and provide a reward. Repeat this until you are certain your dog understands that treats will be provided if he stays in the seated or down position. Like the “come” training, increase the distance between you and your pet, the duration that they need to wait before being rewarded, and the distractions in the surrounding area. This can take time but remain patient and consistent throughout the training process, and you and your dog will both be successful.
Problems Building Training Habits for Pets?
Seek the professional advice of your veterinarian at our Dartmouth animal hospital. New Bedford pet owners and pet owners from all over the South Coast area, trust Anchor Animal Hospital with everything from veterinary check-ups to vaccinations, training and behavior issues to nutrition, and just about anything in between. Located in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, we have earned a solid reputation for providing quality pet care and emergency pet care services since 1975. If you would like to learn more about our services or want to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 508-996-3731.