How Much Training Does Your Dog Need?

Caring and conscientious pet owners need to realize that adopting a dog carries the responsibility of keeping that dog, from getting hurt unnecessarily, or from injuring people, or other animals. Many pet owners are unsure of exactly how much training their dog really needs. The answer is this: some dogs do not require a lot of training to keep them out of trouble, while others need homes where training is a way of life. Much of the training will depend on what kind of dog you choose, your living situation (condo, home, etc) and how many people (kids, older people etc.)will be interacting with your dog. Taking all of these factors into account here is some information that will help you answer the question-how much training does your dog need?

While many people worry that the term "obedience training" will be to military like for their dog it is important to realize, that dog training has advanced due to the generations of trainers, who are refining their techniques. While pet owners still train their dogs for obedience trials, they also train for other purposes such as hunting, search and rescue, police work, assistance to people with disabilities, therapy work and much more.

The good news is that along with the refinement of other dog training, have come specific classes for family dogs. These classes can provide you and your dog, with the skills you need to live successfully in your community. The bottom line is that when you and your dog train together, you deepen your ability to communicate. This way instead of trying to control your dog physically, you will be able to tell the dog what you need. This becomes much less stressful and much safer for you both. Here are some of the skills a trained dog generally needs, in order to live successfully with a typical family-

• Come when called-This is one of the most basic skills your dog should have. Having a dog that will come when called does not mean you will let your dog run loose, but it's life insurance when your dog accidentally gets out. This is important in day-to-day as well as emergency handling.


• Sit and/or down-You dog should be trained to be able to sit when commanded. Keep in mind that some dogs find this painful, so your dog may need to be trained to go down.


• Stay-Experts advise that practicing stays with your dog, helps your dog learn composure, and the ability to remain calm. Too many dogs lack this ability, and it makes their lives harder for them, as well as for their families. The stay exercise is also a way to become your dog's leader, without making a fight of it.


• Walk on a loose lead-While many pet owners and trainers worry about the humaneness of a leash, it has been show that if the leash is loose, the collar (or head halter or harness) is putting less pressure on the dog and most of the time no pressure at all. A dog that is conditioned to work with the leash loose, is easier to handle, and easier to train. This is because instead of being dragged around by the leash, the dog learns to pay attention to the handler. Keeping the leash loose also spares the dog, potential injuries from training devices that can rub off hair and abrade skin.


• Not to bite-For family dogs this becomes a crucial skill. Pet owners must train puppies never to put their teeth to skin. This becomes a critical safety issue, especially if there are children in the home.


• Housetraining-Studies show that a lack of reliable house-training, is a major cause of small dogs losing their homes. Caring pet owners will take the time to train their dogs, about going outside.

More Learn About Dogs

« Homemade Dog Treats | Only Dog Beds | Why Is My Dog Sneezing? »