01/10/2023
From Mischief to Mastery: The Importance of Training Your Dog
You may have recently become the proud new owner of a fur baby, aka a dog. Congratulations! Once the honeymoon period ends, it will be time to start the hard work. Training your dog is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Not only does it help to establish a strong bond between you and your pet, but it also keeps them happy, healthy and most importantly safe.
While training your dog is important on many levels, it is of utmost importance that you train your dog to ensure their safety. A well-trained dog is far less likely to run away, get lost, or become involved in dangerous situations.
Begin by training your dog basic commands such as "sit," "stay," and "come". This can help to keep them under control in situations where they might otherwise be prone to acting impulsively. In the beginning use lots of treats! Dividing up meals into baggies, to then be used for training, can help keep the calories in check so you don't end up with a pudgy pooch.
Another important skill, training your dog to walk on a leash and not to pull is not only safer for them, but also for you. Small breed dogs can even be injured if they are pulling against a neck collar. For this reason a harness may be a safer choice for smaller breeds. For larger, stronger breeds, a leash connected to the front of a harness or a Haltie head harness can help redirect pulling behavior.
A major benefit to training your dog is that it can help to reduce problem behaviors. Many common problems such as barking excessively, jumping on people, and digging in the yard can be reduced or eliminated through proper training. Techniques such as redirecting, desensitization, the use of puzzles and games can all be rather effective over time.
Consistent training will make your dog a better companion, safer for others to be around and help reduce the likelihood of them being given up to a shelter. According to the aspca, approximately 3.1 million dogs end up in U.S. shelters every year. Worse yet, 1.5 million are euthanized yearly. Many end up there because their owner/s couldn't handle them.
Training will provide mental and physical stimulation for your dog. Training allows your dog to learn new things and keep their brain active and healthy. An active dog will be less prone to being destructive. As an added bonus, the physical exercise involved in training your dog can help keep you and them fit and healthy.
Training your dog can be a great way for you to bond with them and strengthen the human-animal relationship. Training provides a sense of structure and purpose for both you and your dog, as well as an opportunity for you to communicate with them and understand their needs and behaviors. Structure and routine are very important for dogs to do well.
Finally, with a well-trained dog, you can confidently bring them to public places and enjoy activities with them. The AKC has developed a standard of behavior called the Canine Good Citizen test. Designed to be the benchmark for determining if you have a âwell-behavedâ dog who unlikely to put themselves or others at risk through disruptive behavior in common, everyday situations. I highly recommend every dog owner aspire to this standard.
All in all, training your dog is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. It helps to keep them safe, healthy, happy and it also helps to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. With a little time and patience, you to can teach your dog new skills, improve their behavior and build a stronger, more enjoyable relationship with them. After all, aren't they worth it?
If you are struggling with training and need assistance please reach out and we will be happy to help. Peace of Mind House Sitters POMHousesitters.com
