Training your dog is a pleasant feat, due to the good behavior it inculcates. Even though dogs are fast learners, teaching them commands aren’t easy. From basic commands like “sit” and “lie down” to more difficult ones like “drop it” and emergency recalls, dog training is a pattern that takes time.
The essential items to training your dog include treats, possibly a clicker, and some patience. Professional dog trainers also recommend the use of shock collars. You can find detailed information on https://canineweekly.com/shock-collars-for-training/ about the best models that enhance the effect of training. These do not cause any discomfort and are effective in gaining your dog’s attention during the training sessions. So, if you’re serious about training your dog, here are the five essential commands that every dog should know.
IMAGE: PEXELS
1. Sit
One of the first commands owners teach their dogs is “sit.” Even though it seems simple, it can shape your dog’s behavior to a great extent.
- Kneel in front of your dog and hold its favorite treat above its nose.
- Move your hand in an upward direction, so that its head moves toward the treat. This will force its backside to lower down.
- When you see that the dog is in a sitting position, say “sit,” offer the treat, press your clicker if you’re using one, and pet your dog to show appreciation. Repeat during every training session.
2. Leave It
This command is useful when your dog starts approaching an object that can be harmful or is off-limits. Unless you don’t teach it this command, both your dog and the object can be in grave danger. Using the command “leave it” or “don’t touch” should be effective in action, mostly for safety reasons.
- Place treats in both of your hands and close your fists. As your dog approaches you, show it one fist that has the treat.
- Your dog will most likely try to snatch it from your hand by licking or mouthing. When that happens, you need to repeat the words “leave it.”
- When your pup finally understands the command and stops trying, give it the treat from the other fist.
- Repeat several times and try to get your dog to move away while it’s listening to the command. It’s important to maintain eye contact while giving the command.
- Another way is to use two different treats; one that is your dog’s favorite and the other that’s of poorer quality.
- Place the latter on the floor and cover it with your hands. Repeat the command: “leave it.”
- When the dog obeys, offer it its favorite treat and praise. When this session is repeatedly fruitful, practice with your dog when it’s standing.
3. Come
When you see that your dog is on the loose or entering any unknown premises, this command is helpful to bring it back to you.
- You’ll need to put on a collar around your dog’s neck, and attach a leash to the collar.
- Kneel down and gently tugs at the leash while commanding “come” in a cheerful voice.
- Once it understands and obeys, offer it a treat, use the clicker, and praise your dog.
4. Stay
Once your pooch has mastered the “sit” command, it’s time for the “stay” command that imposes self-control and obedience.
- You need to begin by commanding your dog to sit.
- Stretch your hand out in front of you with your palm facing upwards, say “stay,” and take a step back.
- Slowly keep on stepping backward.
- Offer your dog a treat if it stays.
This command can take some time for your dog to learn as it requires patience and self-control. Keep on practicing, increasing the distance a little more every time your dog succeeds.
5. Heel
This command is helpful when you take your dog on walks and want it to maintain a steady pace beside you. It also prevents the dog from pulling on the leash.
- Place a collar and leash around your dog’s neck and command it to sit.
- With the leash in one hand and a squeaky toy in the other, start walking while pressing the toy and saying “heel.”
- Stop if the dog pulls or gets distracted, but offer it a treat and praise if it obeys and walks with you.
- Repeat this action every 30 seconds.
Before you start training your furry friend, ensure that it’s happy and healthy. Remember that trained dogs are easier to handle and live better lives. For effective and faster training, you need to start training at an early stage. More importantly, you need to have a lot of patience as your dog gets used to the routine training sessions. Don’t give up!
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