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Article #461: Dog Training Just How Good Is It?

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Dogs aren't really stubborn. But they For the very slow learners or the, well
often do not clearly know what is wanted. let's not say stubborn but just
Make it clear by quickly establishing reluctant, leash and collar training can
alpha (dominant leader) status. be a useful supplement.
Be willing to exercise the patience and Put the dog in a sit/stay and back off a
modest, firm forceto get the desired few feet reeling out the slack leash. If
behavior. This can be particularly the dog refuses to come, give a gentle
challenging when training a 'dog'. but unmistakable tug while executing the
Dogs naturally want to explore the voice command and hand gesture.
environment. They sniff everything, turn For the dog who comes a little to
things over, dig and snatch small readily, get a long leash or rope and
objects. wrap around a tree or post. As the dog
As with any dog training session, lifts off too early, give the leash a tug
minimize the distractions by arranging to and execute a 'stay' command.
be as alone and far from other voices as If you do not have a tree handy, try to
possible. find a partner to help with the training.
A backyard with a clear area or a large The downside to using a partner is the
room with few small objects on the floor dog will more readily become confused
is best. about whom to obey. Focus on a single
Take advantage of spontaneous behavior by person is always more efficient.
observing when the dog is heading toward As with any training, patience and
you and execute a voice-command/hand consistency are essential. Dogs don't
gesture pair that's unique for this spontaneously understand the usefulness
behavior. of 'come' or any other human-induced
Try to select a hand-gesture and word behavior. Speaking harshly when the dog
that you wouldn't normally use except commits errors or is willful is usually
during training. counter-productive.
Start by facing the dog, putting it in a Establish alpha status by firmness of
sit. Execute the 'stay!' command, then voice, body posture and willingness to
back away a step or two. Issue the wait for compliance. Physical restraint
hand-gesture and voice command. Praise or leading is a less helpful technique.
lavishly for the correct behavior, but Most dogs quickly prove themselves eager
never reward 'partial' or incorrect ones. to please and responsive to praise
Repeat, stepping further away. If the the following the correct behavior. Just make
dog comes too soon, put it in a sit/stay sure they're the ones 'coming', not you.
and try again. If the dog won't come at If necessary, prove that you're the
all, encourage with a treat or favorite stubborn one.
toy.






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