Dogs can learn at any age. I always recommend starting with the basics. The basics are building blocks. That is the way I have always looked at them. When building a home, it needs a good foundation.
Teaching a dog to "sit" or "lay down." We can clean the paws if needed. You may be walking your dog and need the dog to "sit" as you wait for traffic. Basic skills are a great start for any dog. Even those tiny dogs.
Recently a German Shepherd came into my training program for basic obedience, and she was catching on quickly. She started at eight months old. Each week I have added in more training for her. I often teach the dogs impulse control. The ability for them to stay in position. Then I add in more distractions, distance and duration. When teaching a dog, a new skill, it's important to not push them too fast. Set the dog up for success! Praise and reward the dog for a job well done.
The tools needed for training are simple. Small treats, leash, harness and a bait pouch.
Always use a marker too. A verbal reward marker such as "yes" or "good" you will be marking the behavior once it is given. I always get the behavior first then I name it. For example, if I would tell the dog "Sit" and it has no clue what that word means, it will mean nothing to the dog. The dog is just learning. Once the behavior is learned first and the dog is learning when it hears "Yes" and a piece of food is delivered, then we can name it.
Things not to do is repeat a cue "sit" "sit" "sit". The dog is just learning cue "sit" and just wait for few seconds. Then try again. Dogs are very intelligent, just don't go too fast.
Below you will see the German Shepherd as I train her for impulse control. You will notice she did great, and I delivered several treats to her for a job well done. Every dog deserves to be paid.
Mecca Curtice is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Dog Trainer located in Sheboygan, WI. She currently offers one-on-one private training sessions. At your place or hers. She is a reward-based trainer and uses positive techniques and methods.
She understands not all dogs do well in a class setting, but they do deserve the chance at training.
Mecca Curtice, CDBC, CCDT
Sheboygan, WI.
© 2023 Mecca Curtice, Mecca's All Breed Dog Training, LLC.
Comments