How to Train a Dog

All dogs young or old can be taught. This article will walk you through training your dog commands successfully using verbal and non-verbal signals.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A dog
• A large box of small dog biscuits
• Patience

1. Play any game with your dog that he likes for at least 5-10 minutes before trying to teach him anything. This reestablishes your bond and asserts dominance—it also tires him out a bit. It’s all about hierarchy with dogs. Then pet him and talk softly to calm him down. You are now ready to begin teaching your dog a trick.

2. Before you give a command give a treat. This will ensure that you have your dog’s attention. Then show him that you have more. Use your hands. Dogs, by nature, are very visual creatures. Your dog knows that your hands deliver the treats, so they intently watch your hands when you are trying to teach them. Use specific hand motions along with verbal commands to help your dog understand what you want. For example, the hand motion for the lay down command can be as simple as pointing to the floor while verbalizing the command.

3. The blank stare. After you issue a command your pet will either look at you and not move or try to jump wildly after the treat. That’s okay. Do not hit the dog ever during the training process, firmly say “No!” and offer the command again with the coordinating hand signal. Now you will have to physically show the dog what you want from him. For example, firmly push on his back near the tail for the sit command until he sits down. When he sits praise him excessively and give him a treat. Repeat for no more that five repetitions in succession. Praise him again and wait at least one hour before attempting to teach him again. Your dog's attention span is limited so follow your pet's cues to know when he's had enough.

4. He’s got it. After enough time and patience and treats your dog will learn the trick. But don’t think you are done yet. Wait at least one week between tricks and use the trick at least twice per day during that week but only give him one treat per day, the other time just praise him and pet him.

5. A new trick. Always start the learning process the same. Play with him then calm him, but this time start off with a trick you’ve already taught him and give a treat. When you try a new trick the dog will most likely go through his arsenal of tricks you’ve already taught him. That’s okay. Gently tell him ‘no.’ and show him what you want along with a new hand signal to back up the verbal command. Be sure you only use positive reinforcement, and don’t force it. Sometimes your dog will just not be in the mood to learn. Just give him praise and try again when he seems more receptive.

Tips & Warnings

• If you never spend time with your pet do not expect him to retain much of what he’s been taught or even learn at all. A relationship is an essential part of being able to teach your pet anything. A stranger will not be able to command a dog with any amount of success, so make sure that you spend time daily bonding with your dog. And you can teach an old dog new tricks, but you may need extra treats.