Training you dog : Part 2

Teaching commands at home
Use a cheerful voice and address your puppy regularly by name. When your pet has learned its name it can be taught to come when called. Stand a little way off from your puppy and tell it to “come” using a confident tone of voice. You can also use visual signals such as patting your knee. To teach your puppy to sit, say “sit” clearly, then gently and firmly push push its bottom and back legs down into the sitting position.

Teaching commands outside the home
It is essential to keep your puppy or dog on a leash when you are teaching it new commands away from your home. This will prevent your puppy from getting lost before it has fully learned to come back at your command!

A collar and leash
All dogs and puppies should get used to wearing a collar and leash. Most dog trainers recommend a choke chain and short, strong strap leash for walking and training your pet.

Starting to walk on a leash
When your puppy is 12-15 weeks old you can begin teaching it how to walk to heel on a leash. While walking, keep your puppy close to your side. If your pet pulls, tell it to “heel” in a firm, clear voice and then return your dog to your side.

Learning with games
Some of the most rewarding training can be gained from “throw and fetch” games. They are enjoyable for your dog and can also be great fun for you. With some effort and patience you can train your dot to run and fetch a ball or toy bone and then sit and wait for a reward. Some dogs respond better to these games than others and you may be able to encourage your pet to “give” you the toy that it has brought back. This game will encourage obedience.

Avoiding trouble
You should not allow a game of “throw and fetch” to turn into a tug-of-war. By training your dog you are telling it that you are in control. If your dog grows stronger than you and refuses to give up its toy, your position of authority and your control over your dog will be weakened.