How to Train a Pet Bird

Many novice pet owners expect great things from their pet bird as soon as they get back from the pet shop. Images in television and movies of a pet birds singing, reciting words and performing tricks are unrealistic. You need to exhibit patience and learn how to train your pet bird properly to see these kinds of results.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Cage
• Bird snacks
• Perch
• Bird toys

1. Arrange for your bird to have his wings clipped ahead of training. The process of clipping wings is relatively painless, and birds who are incapable of flying away are easier to train.
2. Use measured language and voice tone when you teach your pet bird a new trick. Most birds react strongly to harsh tones and yelling. Pretend that a baby is asleep in the next room in order to keep your volume down.
3. Approach your bird with cupped hands as a way to comfort your pet before and after training. Pet owners who grab a bird instead of allowing the bird to climb into their hands create a negative training environment.
4. Carry a bag of bird treats at your side as you train your pet bird. Young birds who need to be potty trained and guided toward proper behavior respond positively to treats after performing good deeds.
5. Place multiple perches and steps in a bird cage to train your bird in stepping up. A treat can be placed on each level to help your pet bird get used to gradual upward movement.
6. Teach your pet bird new tricks without substituting teachers or changing your training style. You should plan out your lessons and expectations ahead of training your bird to avoid confusing the bird.
7. Invest in private lessons with a local pet trainer if your bird is difficult and stubborn. These lessons are necessary for owners with exotics birds and pets who are not responding to your training techniques.
8. Repeat lessons on feeding, proper behavior and stepping several times before moving to a more difficult lesson. The only way to train most birds is through repetition of the same lessons. You will generally need to go through each lesson several times, until the bird can mimic your behavior.

Tips & Warnings

• Move your bird cage and training accessories to a neutral location as you begin to train your pet. Birds are keenly aware of sounds, sights and other distractions that may decrease the impact of your lessons. The routine of moving the cage into a guest bedroom will reinforce lessons.