How to Train a Dog
Dogs can be man's best friend, but a poorly behaved dog can be a nuisance, and even a danger. Learn the proper techniques to train a dog.
Up next in Dog Training 101 (40 videos)
Turns out you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. You just need these Howcast videos, which include advice on how to train a puppy.
You Will Need
- Leash
- Observation skills
- Rewards
- Routine
- Humor
- Understanding
Steps
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Step 1
Be the leader
Establish yourself as the leader of the pack. This can be as simple as walking your dog on a leash. Dogs have a pack mentality and once your leadership is clear, you will have an easier time getting the responses you want.
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Step 2
Don't be too strict
Avoid being too strict too early in your training, which can have a negative effect on your dog. Observe your dog and learn about its behavior to better communicate with it.
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Step 3
Reward good behavior
Reward your dog's good behavior. When it obeys a command, such as "come," "sit, " "fetch," "stay," or "stop barking," praise your dog verbally, pet it, or give it a treat.
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Step 4
Ignore bad behavior
Ignore bad behavior. Don't make the mistake of petting your dog if it jumps on you when you walk in the door. Instead, simply ignore it. This will break an association with barking or jumping and getting attention.
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Yelling may be interpreted as good attention by a dog. Many dogs interpret any attention as good attention.
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Step 5
Develop a routine
Maintain a training routine. It could be five or 10 minutes at a time, several times a week. Keeping a routine will help your dog develop good habits.
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Step 6
Never ignore aggression
Never ignore signs of aggression in your dog. If it is prone to bite, growl, or curl its lip, the aggressive behavior must be addressed right away. Give a firm "NO" when the behavior is exhibited in a puppy. It's never too early to start training your dog.
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The world's first dog show was held in 1859 in Great Britain.
