by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
Several short focused training sessions throughout the day are more beneficial than one long session. You and your dog will stay more motivated and your dog will probably grasp the training concept faster. Teaching too many tricks at one time can be confusing for your...
by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
Each command you teach should only mean one thing. For example… A common mistake people make is to use the word “Down” to lie down and also to get off the furniture, counter, or a person. “Down” should only mean to lie down; “Off” should be used to have your dog put...
by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
REWARD THE BEHAVIORS YOU WANT TO TEACH, instead of punishing the behaviors you want to stop. For example, if your dog jumps up on you to greet you and you would prefer he keep ‘four on the floor’, find a way to reward your dog while he is “grounded” and BEFORE he...
by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
Give your dog time to figure out what you want him to do. If you keep repeating the cue, it will take longer for the dog to figure out what gets him rewarded. Or, he may think that the cue is “Sit, Sit, Sit, Sit”.
by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
Use a clicker, or a word (such as “Yes”) to mark the exact moment your dog gives you the correct response. Begin by pairing the marker (“YES”) with the food reward. Just say, “Yes” and give the dog a treat. Once your dog understands that “YES” means he is getting a...
by Carolyn Ross | May 30, 2012 | Training Tips
While using verbal praise, toys, and life rewards can be effective training tools, most dogs learn quickest using food rewards. Find a few treats that your dog REALLY loves. Soft treats are usually best as they can be broken down into many small treats that can be...
