Rover, Sit!

Having a well-trained dog is certainly rewarding, but accomplishing this can be very frustrating if not done properly. Successful training is not done with force, but rather with patience and understanding. Training with love is much more enjoyable for everyone involved.

It is important to remember a few simple rules when training a dog. First, you need to get the dog to perform the desired behaviour. This may sound easy, but remember that it must be done without using any force. When the dog has performed successfully, he must be rewarded immediately so that he knows he did something right. Once the dog consistently performs the desired behaviour, slowly introduce the command associated with that behaviour. Gradually eliminated the trets and you will have al dog who listens to your commands because he knows that it makes you happy!

Once the command is introduced, remember to give it only once. You do not want to teach your dog to ignore you. Use treats that are very small so that a lot can be used, and time will not be wasted while you are waiting for your dog to chew. Finally, remember to be cheerful and fun. Do not make the training sessions too long, or everyone will loose interest. Also, it is important to finish all training sessions with a successful response. Keep smiling and be positive... you will be amazed at what your dog can do!

Take a small treat and hold it slightly above your dog’s head. When your dog looks up, he will go into a sitting position. If your dog is jumpy, you may stand on his leash to keep him in place. As soon as your dog sits, give him the treat and praise him! This exercise should be repeated many times until your dog starts to understand what you want. Only after he is offering the sit consistently should you use the word “sit”. If the word is used too early,. Your dog will not associate the behaviour with the command. Also, remember to say the command only once, and then wait for the behaviour. Repeating the command teaches the dog that tit is all right to ignore you. When doing this exercise, resist the temptation to push your dog’s behind down as this may actually hinder your dog’s response to the command.

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