Dog training is an essential part of owning a pup. Not only does it create a strong bond between you and your furry friend, but it also ensures their safety and well-being. Whether you’re a new dog owner or have had pets for years, there are always new skills to teach your four-legged companion. Here, we’ve compiled a list of must-know skills that will truly make your pup the ultimate well-behaved dog.
1. Sit, Stay, and Come: These commands are the foundation of obedience training. Teaching your dog to sit, stay, and come when called not only prevents them from running off or getting into dangerous situations but also builds their impulse control. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, these skills can become second nature to your pup.
2. Leave It: Dogs are naturally curious and may attempt to investigate things that they shouldn’t. Teaching your dog to “leave it” can prevent them from picking up harmful objects or eating something that could make them sick. Start by using treats to encourage your pup to ignore an object, gradually increasing the difficulty by using more enticing items.
3. Walking Nicely on a Leash: Walking your dog should be an enjoyable experience for both of you. However, if your pup pulls or lunges on the leash, it can quickly become frustrating. Teach your dog to walk nicely on a leash by using positive reinforcement and rewarding them for walking by your side. Consistency and patience are key in achieving loose-leash walking.
4. Go to Your Bed: Having a designated spot for your dog to go to can be incredibly useful in various situations. Whether you have guests over or need some alone time, teaching your pup to go to their bed on command gives them a safe space and prevents them from getting underfoot. Start by teaching your dog to go to their bed and gradually increase the distance between you and the bed.
5. Wait: If your dog tends to rush out of doors or jump out of the car before you give the okay, teaching them to wait is crucial. This command helps to keep your dog safe and prevents them from darting into traffic or getting into potentially dangerous situations. Begin by using treats and asking your dog to wait before crossing thresholds, gradually extending the duration of their wait.
6. Speak and Quiet: Teaching your dog to bark on command may seem counterintuitive, but it can be a useful skill. By teaching them to speak and then the command “quiet,” you can control their barking and cease it when necessary. This skill is particularly valuable if you live in an apartment or have neighbors close by.
7. Fetch: Playing fetch is not only a great form of exercise for your pup, but it also helps stimulate their mind. Teaching your dog to fetch can be a fun and interactive way to bond, as well as tire them out mentally and physically. Start by using their favorite toy or a ball and reward them for bringing it back to you.
Building on the Basics
Now that you’ve mastered the must-know skills, it’s time to expand your dog’s repertoire even further. Here are four additional skills that will truly set your pup apart:
1. Advanced Tricks:
Teaching your dog advanced tricks such as “roll over,” “play dead,” or “shake hands” not only impresses your friends and family but also provides mental stimulation for your pup. Break down the trick into small steps, use treats and positive reinforcement, and be patient with your pup as they learn each new skill.
2. Off-Leash Recall:
Imagine being able to call your dog back to you even when they’re off-leash at the park. A reliable off-leash recall is a valuable skill that ensures your dog’s safety and gives them the freedom to explore within appropriate boundaries. Start by practicing in a secure, enclosed area and gradually increase the distractions.
3.
Agility Training:
Agility training not only provides physical exercise but also challenges your dog mentally. Set up a small agility course in your backyard using items like cones, jumps, and tunnels. Guide your dog through the course using treats and praise, gradually increasing the difficulty as their confidence grows.
4. Therapy Dog Certification:
If your dog has a calm and friendly temperament, they may be a great candidate for becoming a certified therapy dog. By obtaining therapy dog certification, your pup can bring joy and comfort to those in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Contact a local therapy dog organization for more information on how to get started.
Continuing the Journey
Even if you’ve covered all the skills mentioned above, there’s always room for growth and improvement. Here are four areas where you can continue to enhance your dog’s training:
1. Canine Good Citizen Certification:
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program recognizes dogs with good manners and behavior in both public and home settings. This certification demonstrates that your dog is a reliable and well-behaved companion. Consult your local dog training clubs or organizations to find out how you and your pup can earn this prestigious title.
2. Scent Detection Training:
Scent detection training taps into your dog’s incredible sense of smell. By teaching them to identify specific scents, you can harness their natural abilities for tasks such as finding lost items or locating hidden substances. Enroll in a scent detection class or work with a professional trainer to develop this skill.
3. Service Dog Training:
If your dog has the right temperament and skills, they may be suitable for service dog training. Service dogs provide invaluable assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them with tasks such as opening doors, retrieving objects, or alerting them to medical concerns. Research local service dog organizations to explore the possibilities.
4. Specialized Sports or Activities:
Depending on your dog’s interests and abilities, there are various specialized sports and activities you can explore, such as dock diving, flyball, or even canine freestyle dancing. Engaging in these activities not only provides physical and mental stimulation for your dog but also allows you to bond and have fun together.
Pushing Boundaries
Now that you’ve delved into the world of advanced training, it’s time to push the boundaries even further. Here are four innovative areas you can explore to truly showcase your dog’s intelligence and skills:
1. Clicker Training:
Clicker training is a method that utilizes a clicker as a marker to indicate when your dog has performed the desired behavior. This precise form of training allows for clear communication and enables you to shape complex behaviors step by step. Invest in a clicker and learn the basics to take your training to the next level.
2. Problem-Solving Toys:
Introduce your dog to problem-solving toys or puzzles that require them to use their cognitive abilities to obtain a reward. These toys challenge your dog’s problem-solving skills and provide mental stimulation. Leave your dog alone with the toy and observe as they figure out how to access the treat or toy hidden within.
3. Canine Nose Work:
Canine nose work taps into a dog’s natural scenting abilities. Enroll in a nose work class or set up your own scenting games at home. Hide treats or scented objects and encourage your dog to find them using their nose. This activity engages their mind and provides an outlet for their instincts.
4. Behavioral Consultations:
If you’ve encountered specific behavioral challenges with your dog, consider seeking the guidance of a professional behavioral consultant. These experts can assess your dog’s behavior, provide tailored training plans, and help address any underlying issues. Behavioral consultations can be particularly beneficial for dogs with fear, anxiety, or aggression issues.