Pet University
Training a Dog
Leash Training
There are many different kinds of leashes and collars on the market today, so you’ll need to decide which one is most appropriate for your dog. Leashes come in a variety of materials, including leather, cotton, and nylon.
Six feet is the appropriate length for a leash. There are retractable leashes, which allow your dog 15 to 25 feet of roaming room. These leashes are ideal because it gives your dog much freedom during a walk in the park; however, respect other peoples’ feelings around dogs.
Some leashes on the market come with built-in collars, but if yours does not, a flat nylon or leather buckle collar should do the trick. Some owners prefer to use a harness opposed to a collar; this is a good idea if you plan on using some sort of seat belt system in your car instead of confirming your dog to a crate. However, harnesses provide less control over your dog during a walk compared to a collar. So, if you decide on a harness, make sure it is a good fit for your dog; as if it is loose it can harm your dog.
So, now that you have the tools, its time to hit the road! Start with your puppy standing to your left leg. If he is hesitant to stand to your left leg, encourage him to do so with a treat, and reward him when he corrects his position.
Now that you have him by your side, show him another treat, and hold it just above his nose, at a height where his head is up and he can nibble the food without jumping. Say his name, and give the command you’ve chosen for walking, and then begin to walk forward. While walking, watch the leash, if it begins to tighten, stop walking. Your puppy should come to an abrupt stop as well. Stand still, lure him back to the previous position with the treat, and then continue walking. Over time, he will begin to obey the rules of the leash and by rewarding him with a tasty treat won’t be at all necessary.
Obedience Training
Trying to control a dog without obedience training is exhausting and often near impossible. Teaching four simple commands to your puppy or dog will make a world of difference and provide a great opportunity for bonding.
Keep in mind that puppies have short attention spans, and it is unreasonable to expect to have your puppy's full attention for a long period of time. Keep your training sessions short each time and slowly progress to longer periods.
Here are four simple commands:
1. Sit
Sit is a very important command for a dog to learn. It will provide a quick means for you to gain control of your dog in any situation, using the following method:
Have your puppy on a leash, standing facing you. With the leash in one hand and a treat in the other, show him the treat slightly above nose height. As he raises his head to take his food, move the treat upward and back towards his tail. Automatically your puppy will sit as he tries to follow the treat with his nose and eyes. As soon as he sits, say “Sit”, and praise him with a treat.
2. Down
Kneel on the floor so you and your puppy are at eye level, and hold a treat in one hand. Let your puppy sniff the treat. Slowly move the treat down toward the floor between his feet. The puppy should plant his front feet and move his body into the Down position. One his elbows and belly make contact with the floor, respond with the “Down” command, and then praise him with the treat.
3. Stay
Begin with your puppy on a leash, sitting beside you. Command him to Sit and Stay, putting your open palm in front of his nose. Once he has remained still for any length of time over five seconds, praise him with a treat. Keep in mind most dogs will have no patience at the beginning and will most likely stay for maybe two seconds. Be patient, yet firm on only rewarding with a treat after five seconds.
4. Come
Show you dog a treat or toy, and then throw it for him to fetch. As he runs for it, head in the opposite direction and out of his line of sight. Then, enthusiastically say your puppy’s name. When he finds you reward him with much love and kisses. Repeat this game several times everyday to get your dog familiar with the concept. Eventually, your dog will come to you every time you call out his name.
Teaching your dog obedience commands provides a way for you to easily communicate with him, and once he is able obey; it will make for a much enjoyable relationship.
Socializing your Puppy
Generally, socialization skills are learned when a puppy is between 8 and 16 weeks of age. If you are not thorough in exposing your puppy to new people and places during this time, he is likely to suffer in the long run.
To begin, take your puppy for a walk in the neighborhood to the less crowded areas. It is important that his first socialization lessons are fun, safe, and stress-free, so your puppy feels comfortable smelling things, exploring, and interacting.
When other people are interested in your puppy, let them pet him so he can get used to different touches and smells. It is also ideal to carry other treats with you so when meeting new people; they can feed your puppy a snack, which should help him rid him of any fear of strangers. When your dog is face-to-face with another dog for the first time, keep both leashed, and make the introduction slowly.
During your puppy’s early socialization period he will be exposed to many different sounds and scents. He should also be exposed to different sights such as people wearing sunglasses, hats, and other things such as moving cars. All of this exposure is good for your dog and will help alleviate his fears and guarantee his comfort in just about any situation.
Socializing with your new little family member may be time consuming; however, it should be well worth it in the end. With some dedication and patience early on, you pup should grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved older dog.
