If you’re getting a dog, whether it’s your first or a new addition to the family, there are some details you need to do before their arrival. You will have a happy, lasting relationship by being prepared and taking the time to train your dog correctly.
This post will discuss the top five things you must prepare for before training your dog. Keep reading to learn more!
Pick an Appropriate Dog Training Space
One of the most significant things you can do before beginning to train your dog is choosing a proper training space. This space should be large enough for your dog to move around comfortably but not so large that they feel lost or unfocused. The area should also be free from distractions, such as other animals or people.
Additionally, you will need to ensure that there are no items in the space that could be potentially harmful to your dog. Once you have turned up the perfect venue for training, you will be one step closer to having a well-behaved pup.
Obtain the Correct Equipment
Before you start training your dog, it is vital to get the proper equipment. An essential piece of equipment is a collar and leash. A collar should fit snugly around your dog’s neck, and the leash should be long enough to give you plenty of control without discomfort.
You will also need some treats to use as rewards for good behavior during training. It is essential to choose a type of treat that your dog finds irresistible so that he will be motivated to obey your commands.
Prepare Water
One thing you’ll need to remember when training your dog is to have water available. Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, so it’s essential to keep them hydrated during training sessions.
You should also keep some water handy if your dog gets overheated or starts to pant excessively. You can serve your dog to stay comfortable and focused during training by being prepared with water.
Strategize Your Commands
When you’re training your dog, it’s essential to be prepared. Plan out what commands you want to teach, and practice saying them.
It might seem silly, but you want your commands to be clear and consistent. Think about what words you want to use, and ensure everyone helping with the training is on the same page. You also want to consider your tone of voice for each command.
Dogs are very attuned to vocal cues, so using a happy or excited voice for ‘ sit ‘ or ‘ stay ‘ will help your dog understand these are good things. On the other hand, using a stern voice for ‘ no ‘ will help your dog know that this is not something you want them to do.
Taking the time to plan out your commands will make training go more smoothly and help your dog learn more quickly.
Find a Good Trainer
Training your dog can be a worthwhile experience for you and your pet. However, it is essential to remember that dogs are not born behaved. Some pups will be more difficult to handle than others. For this reason, finding a reputable trainer who can teach your pet the basics of good behavior is vital.
When choosing a trainer, a few things to consider are their experience, methods, and success rate. By taking the time to find a good trainer or letting them attend dog training classes, you can set your dog up for achievement and ensure that both of you enjoy the training process.
Conclusion
Before you go into training your dog, there are a few things you’ll need to have ready. Review the top five items on our list that you won’t want to be without as you start working with your pup.
To be a thriving dog owner and have a well-behaved pup, it’s vital to equip yourself with the best education programs like private dog training. Luckily for you, Gnaw On Their Skull provide just that. Our team of dog behaviorists in San Diego is here to help you become your dog’s best San Diego dog trainers – and pack leader. Contact us today to get started!