Basic Training Skills for Larger Dogs

If you have a large, active dog that has powerful drives, you may need to consider further training for him. These larger dogs often have excessive energy that needs to be channeled into constructive behaviors. Both you and your dog will be happier if training is put into place. Here are some areas that should be considered as training behaviors for larger dogs.

Train your dog to only chew on dog toys. It is important to remember that if your dog has a concept of property, it is not the same as a human concept. You need to realize that your dog can not understand that something of yours would be difficult to replace or costs money. Keep in mind that even without understanding why, a dog can learn (with your help over time, as the dog gains maturity) to focus chewing on specific items.

Train your dog to greet people with all four of their feet on the ground. If you are a devoted pet lover then jumping up on people sometimes seems like a minor problem. While the whole idea from the dog's point of view is to get closer to the face and hands for greeting, it is important to understand that people do not want to be knocked over, or get their clothing torn or dirty, no matter how much they may love your dog.
Train your dog to refrain from chasing vehicles and children. Pet owners need to understand that dogs are bred to have high drives for following moving objects. Your dog may fall into dangerous habits without your guidance. Your best bet to avoid this is to get good training help with this sort of dog early, before the chasing habit has a chance to start.

Train your dog to retrieve. Dog training experts advise that the best game to play with a dog is also the foundation for much of the advanced dog training, as a great solution to quite a few dog problems: retrieving. Keep in mind that you will want to start shaping it in your dog, soon after the dog comes to live with you, no matter what age the dog is at that time. You should work on it a little every day.

While you are training your dog (of any size) it is important to remember the following principles of good dog training. These are-

Training will not really count unless it is reliable-Many dog owners will tell you their dogs are "trained" to certain behaviors, and yet the dog will not perform the behavior in the face of excitement or distraction. Keep in mind that training needs to be reliable, where it is needed most often, around distractions and stress, and in emergencies. Keep in mind that much of this depends on your learning how to handle the dog, so that you will react correctly in an emergency. That takes training for you both and lots of practice.

Training happens when you practice properly-Dog owners must understand that training is an ongoing process. You must repeat the practice, until the proper behaviors become deeply established habits. The most important behaviors, such as coming when called, need to be so strongly conditioned that the dog's first impulse will be to just do it, not stop and think first.

Training is discipline. When people hear the word discipline, they sometimes mistake it for punishment. Real discipline is activity that builds self esteem. Your dog can take pride in his actions, and in doing a good job. The bottom line is that training builds your bond with your dog, and best of all gives your dog a better chance at a long and happy life.

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