Learn To Earn Dog Training? The 61 Top Answers

Is It Ever Too Late to Train an Older Dog? Although some adult dogs are slower learners, it’s never too late to teach an older dog to listen and obey. Some adult dogs may even learn better because they are less likely to be distracted than when they were puppies. Plus, the new training exercises are a great opportunity to bond with your furry best friend. Whether you’re retraining a dog who needs to unlearn some unwanted habits or you’re training an older dog for the first time, it’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks.

You may need to “detrain” bad habits first.

Adult dogs can develop some bad habits that take time to break.1 Your first step in breaking an older dog might actually be to “break.”

The good news is that older dogs still go out of their way to please; they want to learn what makes you happy. To build on this, use positive reinforcement to let your dog see that the new habit makes you happy. Also, give him his favorite treats while he’s exercising to keep him feeling even more motivated. Ultimately, you want him to find the new action more appealing than the old habit.

Some habits you may need to “detrain” may include chewing magazines, chewing your shoes, or even barking at the front door. In older dogs, these bad habits could be a result of how they were raised in a previous home. If you’ve adopted a rescue pet who didn’t have a lot of boundaries in their previous home, you may need to help them learn that your home has boundaries.

The key is to redirect his behavior to a more positive action. Maybe teach him to get a magazine instead of chewing it. Teach him to lie on his bed when a guest comes to visit. If you can offer him an alternative activity that he enjoys, it will make it easier for you to break a bad habit.

Fix bad household habits

One area where older dogs may need a little retraining is in house training or potty training. If you need to housetrain your dog again, start over. Establish a meal and potty routine. Make sure you do them at the same time every day. This will help your dog know what to expect and when.

If she has an accident, clean it thoroughly. Don’t rub your face in the accident; it will only make them shy and afraid of the whole process.

Give her plenty of praise when she goes outside. Make sure you praise her right after she goes potty outside (before going back inside) so she associates the praise with the action.

Every time you go out with her, use the same phrase, like “go on the potty.” You may have to use this many times before she realizes it, as there’s a chance her previous home used a different potty expression that she needs to unlearn.

You may also need to use a crate when housebreaking an older dog, just like you would with a puppy.3 If she’s not used to crating, insert the crate slowly, leaving a soft crate pad inside to keep your puppy comfortable feels.

And remember, some older dogs may have incontinence issues that interfere with training. They may need more frequent outings or even dog diapers. A superior indoor/outdoor orthopedic bed with waterproof backing can help you sleep more comfortably.

It’s not too late to teach your dog socialization skills

Socialization can be a challenge when training an older dog. The best time to socialize a dog with people or other pets is when they are puppies (less than 16 weeks old).4 If you miss this window, don’t worry; it is not too late. Socialize him slowly and watch his cues closely to know if you’re pushing him too quickly. If he’s only comfortable in your yard, then focus on socializing him there first. Be patient, give extra treats, and remember that setbacks can happen. You may not have the most social dog in the world, but you can definitely help your pup be friendlier and less anxious.

“Place” is a great first trick to teach

You will have the most success with your older dog if you start with tricks that are easy to learn. Use these simple commands to build their confidence, then build on more complex commands.

One of the easiest commands to start with is teaching “Location” with the K&H Original Pet Cot. Once learned, it is a great help in “unlearning” bad habits, such as barking at the doorbell. Instead of barking, she can learn to go to her “place” and not get so upset. If your dog is too old to hop on a bed, you can use a bed that’s close to the floor, like the Ortho Bolster Sleeper.

Teaching “Location” is a simple, step-by-step process. Point to the bed first and praise your dog when he gets on it. Then say “free” and tell them to leave. As soon as she keeps getting back on the bed after your gesture, start saying “down” before you gesture. Every time she gets on the cradle, give her a treat, say “off,” and encourage her to walk.

Over time, just by hearing yourself say “place,” decrease the gesture until she climbs onto the crib. When repeated, she responds without gestures to “down” and “free”.

After that, you can teach her to “locate” you based on certain sounds, like the doorbell. First, ring the doorbell, say “location,” and give her a treat when she gets on the bed. With repetition, she will eventually learn to go to the cot out of habit when she hears the doorbell.

As an added bonus, it’s much easier to take your dog with you on trips once he’s learned basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Why not reward your dog’s perseverance by taking them for a car ride in their Bucket Booster Pet Seat and then taking them for a walk in a new area they’ve never been to?

A trick like “shake” is also a good place to start

Teaching an older dog a trick uses essentially the same steps you would use to teach a puppy. You may need to spend more time on each step before moving on to the next. Your older dog is just as eager to learn as a puppy, but he may need a little more patience.

For example, to teach “shake” your dog will need to sit, so make sure he knows that command first. Next, show your pup a treat and then place it in your closed fist.5 Hold your closed fist with your palm facing up. Your dog will likely paw at your fist. Open your hand when he paws it and give him the treat while you praise him.

After he does that, follow the same steps without putting a treat in your fist. (You still give him a treat, only you have it in your other hand or in your pocket.) After he’s mastered this, start saying “shake” while offering your hand. Then you can continue to shake his paw when you say “shake.”

This trick is ideal because it’s easy to learn and doesn’t require an older dog to exercise too much. It’s a great way to build trust with your pup.

Teach more complicated tricks after mastering the simple commands

You may want to do more complicated tricks with your older dog, such as scent tracking. It’s totally possible, but it’s important to make sure your dog has mastered the basics like “place,” “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Older dogs may be a little slower to pick things up; They really need that solid foundation of basic commands before they learn complicated tricks.

After your pup has mastered the basics, you can try a new set of slightly more difficult commands. Consider tricks like “high five,” “talk,” and “kiss.” If your dog doesn’t have hip problems, then a trick like “crawling” or “rolling over” might work as well. You might consider teaching your dog to fetch something like slippers or a leash. If she’s good at that, she may also be good at activities that involve scent-sniffing.

Think about age

Although older dogs can certainly learn new tricks, their age should not be ignored. Even if your older dog is intent on making you happy, sometimes doing what you ask of him can be too painful or tiring. Your dog is no longer a puppy. He may not always be able to catch a ball on command. Getting up and down to sit could hurt his hips, and crawling on the floor could hurt too. If you notice your dog obeying and then stopping, it may be that he is tired or in pain. Consider teaching some less physically demanding tricks like “talking,” “shaking,” or “high five.”6

Older dogs may have other physical limitations that affect obedience, such as vision problems or hearing problems. Talk to your vet if this seems like a possibility and adjust your training accordingly. A dog with vision problems may need to respond to verbal cues rather than gestures, and a dog with hearing problems may need to be trained using gestures rather than commands.

Try an obedience class

Training is not only fun, teaching obedience to an older dog is good for their health.7 Training stimulates them mentally and physically and helps them feel useful. But there’s no shame in needing a little help. If you don’t get very far, you may be using the wrong techniques. Try enrolling in a senior dog obedience class. This can be a fun adventure for you and your dog, and you can take away some great tips that will help you along the way.

Be patient and positive

The keys to training a senior dog are patience and positivity. Your dog may be a little slower at learning, but he really wants to learn. Give him the time he needs to settle in and keep the training positive. If you adopted him when he was older, you don’t know if he has had bad training experiences in the past. He may also have issues with “older dogs” distracting him. Focus on making your workout a positive, fun adventure that he looks forward to.

Remember to schedule snuggle time too

You may be in a training setting, but not everything you do with your dog should be a lesson. Take some time to cuddle together. It’s important to have a bonding time that doesn’t have a lot of expectations. Sitting together on the couch and watching TV. Get your dog a Cuddle Cube and lie on the floor next to them while you look out the window together. If she can’t get comfortable, try a self-warming lounge sleeper for extra comfort.

Just because your dog isn’t a puppy anymore doesn’t mean you can’t teach him new tricks and commands. Training can be a great opportunity to bond and have fun together while working towards a common goal. If he’s physically able, you can even enroll your dog in agility competitions and smell work classes once he’s mastered the basics.

At 3-6 months of age, puppies go through some major physical and behavioral changes such as: B. growing to their adult size, teething, and fear of new places and people. Be prepared to care for your pup at this crucial developmental stage.

Puppies are usually housed between 8 and 12 weeks of age. If you are adopting or buying a young puppy, there is a good chance that the puppy will be almost 12 weeks old (three months old). Between 12 and 16 weeks of age, your puppy may chew destructively on toys or household items and become frightened of his surroundings. Having a consistent training routine and reward system for correct, calm behavior is crucial.

Bodily development

Around 12 weeks of age, puppies begin to have better control of their bladder and bowels. You can start sleeping through the night without accidents or potty breaks. House training could go more smoothly in the coming weeks. Make sure you’re on a fairly regular schedule. Most dogs can be fully housebroken by four to five months of age.

At 12 weeks of age, your puppy will start teething. You may notice excessive biting and chewing, bruised or red gums, and missing teeth in the mouth. You might even find baby teeth occasionally! When teething, some puppies become frustrated or restless. They may “act out” more on certain days or be picky about food. Make sure you provide plenty of puppy-safe toys during this time. Teething should slow down by around 16 weeks or four months of age. All adult teeth are present by six months of age.

Warning Keep dangerous “chews” out of reach (like electrical cords, shoes, and houseplants). You should leave your pup in the crate when you are not home to protect him.

Between 12 and 16 weeks of age, your pup will start to look a little less like a baby puppy and a little more like a miniature version of the dog he’s becoming. She will likely be growing rapidly by the age of four to six months. By the age of six months, your puppy will be closer to its future adult size. Most small dog breeds are almost fully grown by the age of six months. Large and giant dog breeds can reach about half their adult size. Medium sized dogs still need to grow some, but by the time they are six months old they are usually about 75% larger.

The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

behavior changes

Your 12 week old pup is nearing the end of a critical socialization window. Make the most of this time by exposing your dog to new people, places, and things. Until your dog is fully vaccinated, he should not be around unfamiliar animals or on the floor in public places. Try to have lots of people and healthy animals visit your home and have positive experiences with your pup. You can take your dog to homes where you know the pets are vaccinated and healthy. Carry your dog in public spaces and expose them to loud noises, falling objects, and small crowds. Work on puppy handling exercises so they get used to being handled. As you socialize your pup, always stay positive and upbeat.

Puppies typically experience a period of anxiety around 16 weeks of age. This is a normal part of your pup’s social development as he learns to respond to his surroundings. Avoid overtaxing your pup if you notice anxious reactions. This is not the time for loud noises, falling objects, or crowds. It’s also important not to reward fearful behavior, otherwise you’ll be validating your pup’s fears. Instead, ignore the fearful behavior and gently remove your pup from the source of the fear. Instead, reward calm, happy behavior.

A dog’s puberty usually begins around the age of six months and lasts until the age of 18 months to 2½ years, depending on the breed. Expect a rebellious side to your pup as he begins to push his limits. You may notice your dog ignoring cues that it was previously trained to respond to. She may also have destructive chewing at this stage (caused by a combination of teething, general adolescent misbehavior, and possibly boredom). Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise and keep exercising regularly. Be consistent and firm.

Health and care

Your puppy will need regular vet visits for puppy vaccinations, deworming, and routine check-ups from 8 to 16 weeks of age. During this time, it’s important to keep your pup away from unfamiliar animals and public places where other animals may have been. Once the vaccinations are complete and your vet gives the all-clear, your pup can start walking, visiting the park, and playing with other dogs (with careful supervision, of course).

After four months of age, most puppies will no longer need routine vet visits into adulthood. At the last puppy visit (usually when the rabies vaccination is given at around 16 weeks of age), ask any remaining questions. Talk to your vet about the best way to care for your fast-growing pup.

When your dog is spayed or neutered, it is often done between five and six months of age. Ask your veterinarian for individual recommendations for your dog. The ideal age for spaying or neutering can vary by breed and size.

The Spruce / Anastasiia Tretiak

food and nutrition

Proper nutrition and nutrition is an essential part of your pup’s development. Make sure you’re feeding puppy food (dog food labeled for growth) and that you’re feeding the right amount. Your puppy will need more and more food as it grows. During this period of rapid growth, evaluate the amount you’re feeding your pup at least once a week to see if you need to adjust it. Commercial diets have a feeding chart based on the puppy’s age and weight. If you choose to feed homemade puppy food, you need to take extra care to feed them the right recipe and calorie content.

When feeding treats, make sure they are healthy, non-toxic, and not overfed. Dog treats should never make up more than 10% of your pup’s daily food intake.

Warning When giving chews, avoid bones, antlers, hooves, hard nylon dog toys, or other hard chews. Adult teeth still come through and can cause pain or injury in the mouth when chewing.

education

You should start training your pup as soon as he comes home with you. One of the first things you will focus on is house training. Most puppies begin this at around 12 to 16 weeks of age and will be fully housebroken by around four or five months of age.

It’s also important to focus on obedience training. Teach your pup basic commands like sit, stay, and down. Train the memory stimulus as quickly as possible. They also need to teach manners, such as For example, not jumping up, not barking excessively, and not biting (many puppies are particularly vocal between 12 and 16 weeks).

Leash training is important at this stage of your puppy’s life. From the age of 16 weeks, you can walk your dog in public. Start getting your puppy used to being on a leash no later than 12 weeks. Then, teach your puppy to walk on a leash. Start in your house and then move to your backyard. Work your way up into nature.

One of the best ways to start training your puppy is to enroll in a puppy training class. Classes are led by experienced trainers who can guide you through basic training and even address some of the puppy’s minor behavioral issues. Classes consist of small groups of healthy, vaccinated puppies. Puppy training classes can help socialize your dog and allow him to learn despite distractions.

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I encourage pet parents to consider hiring a dog trainer the same way you would hire a nutritionist. We all know how to eat healthy, right? However, sometimes we have special dietary restrictions or conditions that require the trained assistance of a nutritionist. There is no shame in seeking professional help. Ditto for issues you may have with your best friend, except – and this is a major exception – there is no regulation of the dog training industry.

It really is a buyer-beware situation when employing a dog trainer. You could get a certified, experienced, and really talented pro, or you could get a hacker who put up a sign yesterday posing as a coach. Therefore, the responsibility for discovery rests with you, the pet’s parent.

But what if there were a way around the often disastrous, contentious state of dog training? I’m happy to say there is, and the solution is: train your own dog.

So how do you go about it? Get started with these three steps.

Step 1: Don’t Google!

If you are dealing with a dog whose behavior you consider aggressive and you google “dog aggression” you will be struck in the eye with 17 million entries. How do you tell who has really good advice and who thinks they’re an expert just because they have a dog? Instead of wasting time Googling advice from strangers, invest time studying your dog’s behavior. To understand dogs, one must understand the dog’s body language. What is your dog telling you when, for example, it licks its nose or lifts a paw? A great place to start learning dog body language is dog trainer Jill Breitner’s app, The Dog Decoder.

Step 2: Start with the basics, then adjust accordingly as needed

Have you made it clear to your dog what will bring him lots of tasty reinforcements and make you happy? Start teaching in very small increments and in a low-stress environment, e.g. B. by simply sitting, not in an emotionally charged place like the front door. Work your way to the door, and if the new setting is too much, go back to the last place your dog heard your request and start over. Please don’t be afraid to use high-quality nutritional boosters in your training – hot dogs and cream cheese solve MANY problems.

If you have tried training on your own but are getting stuck or the dog is not progressing as quickly as you would like, consider hiring a specially trained trainer. First, determine if the problem is obedience (he pulls on the leash) or behavior (he jumps and barks at other dogs), and then find a trainer or behaviorist who specializes in the problem. Also, ask potential trainers how they will help your dog when he’s making the wrong decisions and what they’ll do with the dog when he’s making the right ones.

Most importantly, ask if they can train your dog without touching the dog or using any kind of force. If you can’t, go to a trainer who can. You can search for a qualified, non-violent trainer through the Pet Professional Guild.

Step 3: Look for ways to reinforce the behavior you want

If your dog has a problem jumping at people when you catch him sitting or lying down in a quiet situation, give him some really delicious meat or cheese boosters. After he’s started doing more of what he was rewarded for, work on asking for the “seat” or “down,” again with food. Why? Dogs need motivation, just like people. You don’t go to work for free, so don’t ask another species to do something you aren’t willing to do yourself.

Know that rewarded behavior increases. A dog can’t sit and jump on people at the same time, so work hard to reinforce the behavior you want. Also, take a step back and ask yourself if you’re accidentally reinforcing the unwanted behavior (perhaps by kneeling the jumping dog in the chest, which your dog might see as an invitation to play). If what you’re doing isn’t getting the results you want, change your behavior. We need to stop telling our dogs no no no and instead look for ways to say yes.

Dogs do what works for them. It just so happens that most of what works for them also works for us. Dogs don’t try to take control. The “dominance theory” has been totally and completely crushed by science. You can still come across trainers touting it, but you know they are subscribing to outdated and harmful dog training methods.

When training your dog, pay attention to what works and what doesn’t. Violence is not recommended as it reduces trust and connection. Dogs seek out humans and want to be with us, so using aggression to train a dog weakens that bond. Look for positive ways to encourage, motivate, and praise your dog when he does what you want him to do. The only punisher I use with any dog ​​breed is a timeout. Either I leave the situation or I take away what the dog wants at that moment. And then I’ll come right back personally – or I’ll return the item the dog wants – after asking again about the behavior I want.

There are a few basic skills that make life with your dog more comfortable and that make life with us more comfortable for the dog too. However, dogs do not come to our home without knowing the house rules. Just teaching how to sit reliably can solve many problems. Obedience begins with focus. The more your dog loves being around you and the more he is encouraged to offer you the behaviors you want him to behave in, the more harmonious life will become for both species.

You can do a lot of dog training yourself. Dog training is not rocket science. Even if you send your dog to a trainer, you still live with the dog. When he comes back, the training burden is on you. The good news is that you can train your dog with just a small increase in human knowledge, kindness, and motivation.

In connection with this, I have published a new book that offers practical training advice for even the most troubled dog. Search in stores or on Amazon for The Midnight Dog Walkers: Positive Training and Practical Advice for Living with Reactive and Aggressive Dogs (Lumina Media).

Teaching your dog hand signals is a great way to improve communication with your pet. Most pets respond better when a listening command is paired with a hand signal. Many pet owners introduce this at a young age and it’s a great training technique that becomes even more invaluable as your dog gets older. Pets can lose some of their hearing as they age, which is why these hand signals can really come in handy! We’ve narrowed it down to the 5 most important commands to teach your dog today.

How to train:

Your pet needs to learn the connection between the verbal command and the hand signals. The most effective way to teach your dog is to follow these 2 steps:

Keep your hand sign simple and reinforce the behavior with rewards (treats and praise).

Once your dog is responding accurately to your commands, slowly fade out the reward. If your dog is already familiar with the standard commands: sit, stay, etc., then transitioning to hand signals is fairly easy. Training is best when you work with your pet on a daily basis. If you make it a priority, your dog will pick up the hand signals quickly!

1. A FINGER POINT TO THE EYE – Watch me.

If you want to completely switch from auditory commands to non-verbal cues only, this is an extremely important first step. In order for your pet to learn, they must first “look” to see what command you are expecting from them. If they look at you intently, reward them with a treat. It helps if you have a small treat in hand when you first teach them – your dog’s eyes will be on the prize!

2. OPEN HAND, PALM UP – Sit down.

The most common command for any dog. This is often the first training your dog receives. The gesture is simple, keep your palm on your chest facing the sky and move your hand in an upward motion. As you begin training, make sure to pair the verbal command “sit” with the hand signal.

3. FINGER SIGN DOWN – Lie down.

Another great signal to help your dog calm down is to lie down. The action for this command is to hold your finger up on your chest and make a downward sweeping diagonal motion. Hold a treat in hand while training and your dog’s nose will surely follow!

4. OPEN HAND, PALM FORWARD – Remain.

Teaching your dog to stay or wait is one of the most important commands. This non-verbal command is great for security when you are in public places or busy streets. Train your dog with both your listening command and hand signals, test by walking backwards with your palm facing out at chest level. Make sure your pet stays until you ask them to come.

5. HAND ACROSS CHEST – Come on.

Another useful command is to call your dog. Start with an open hand at your side and bring it diagonally to your opposite shoulder. This is a must when traveling in areas where your dog is off leash.

It’s always important to positively reinforce your dog with verbal praise and treats during the training process. And our Primal Treats make a great training tool to reward your pet! Remember to be patient and have fun exercising. Use these five training tips to bond with your pet even deeper!

A few years ago I went through a huge Dalmatian phase. Not at Cruella de Vil level, but close. I’ve been staring at Instagram accounts dedicated to speckled puppies and imagining having a cool Dalmatian quietly snuggling up to me. Reality check: Dalmatians are notoriously stubborn and easily bored, which can lead to destructive behavior. Training is possible, but hard. And this is important because if you are looking to adopt a dog, breeding is of great importance, especially if you have young children around. The breeds on this list are definitely energetic (dogs with more get-up-and-go are easier to train), but these dogs are also smart and love to learn commands. Here are the 10 easiest dogs to train.

RELATED: The best dog breeds for runners

Can a 1-2 week board and workout transform your dog?

As a consumer trying to make the best decision about the right dog training program, sorting through all the details can be quite overwhelming. A common question I hear from inquiring customers is, “Why are your training programs at The Doghouse three weeks long? Other trainers offer one or two week packages.”

This observation is reasonable, especially in today’s culture where convenience and instant results are the expected norms. I am certainly guilty of this way of life. Why would I lug my two young toddlers in the car, fight traffic and struggle to find in-store parking when I can order on Amazon Prime and receive a package in two days? It’s natural to think they’re the better option because someone claims they can deliver results in less time. I’m here to tell you that this is far from the truth in the field of dog training. Just like with losing weight, when it comes to successful results, there simply is no such thing as instant gratification or trade-offs. Not if you want the result to last.

I have been running my full service training program for 18 years. During that time I have continually practiced and perfected my craft, including experimenting with different length training programs. Through my years of experience, I am confident to say that lasting obedience cannot be successfully achieved in just a week or two, and here is why:

1-Week Programs: Don’t expect a fully trained dog in just one week. Instead, you should expect to continue the teaching process with them, rather than just reinforcing what they’ve learned. A well-trained dog can understand and carry out the commands you give, regardless of the environment or distractions. It is unlikely that this will be the case after just one week. Many dogs will not reveal their personalities and individual quirks until they have adjusted to the changes around them. Put yourself in your dog’s shoes; you took her to a new place; They spent a week with a new person and barely had time to settle in. All of this is happening as they are being expedited to basic commands due to a timeline (often relying on training tools to achieve reliability rather than obedience). In these cases, your dog may be able to perform basic commands on video with the trainer, or even when you pick them up at the location. However, as soon as they change surroundings or encounter other distractions, it’s as if the information is out of context.

Instead of taking your dog home and reinforcing the obedience and methods taught, you need to completely retrain them to understand the commands in your home environment. There is not enough generalization of the obedience commands taught for the dog’s training to be reliably transmitted. Besides, you also need to understand how to use the exercise equipment properly, otherwise you and your dog are doomed. Many of these week-long programs only offer a 2-hour one-time transfer lesson, and you’ll be leaving with your dog right after. This is a crash course for you and will not prepare you or the dog for success. Pushing an electric collar button should not determine whether the dog will perform its obedience skills.

2-week programs: Even with a 2-week program, expect your dog to be a bit confused during the transition. Two weeks is just enough time for the dog to get used to the new routine and understand the commands. However, even at this point, they are only just ready to practice their learned skills in different settings (such as dog parks and around town). The dog is likely still dependent on training equipment or rewards used by the trainer. You should expect to continue a rigorous training program when your dog returns home so he doesn’t lose anything he’s learned. Even after two weeks, you’ll likely encounter some of the same issues when you return home as you did with the week-long program options. If you have the right home training instructions, a good handler can retain what is learned and continue to build on it.

Even as a dog sport competitor, I would never imagine that I could buy a thoroughly trained and competitive dog and expect to enter and win a trial. It didn’t matter if the dog had won titles with the previous trainer and I had video proof despite my senior handler experience. The dog may not obey my commands because its previous trainer may not have practiced taking commands from others. Maybe they just studied in the same field. It could even be as simple as that it rained the day I attended and the dog didn’t train with its previous owner in the rain.

Here are the top reasons why short-term training doesn’t work:

Dog training is dynamic and dogs are not robots! Just teaching them basic commands is not enough. Dogs are very situational. You learn in pictures. If even one condition in their environment changes compared to the image they learned, they may not respond. Short-term training programs don’t work because it takes repetition, time, and patience to introduce your dog to various environmental factors. This process helps ensure a smoother transition once they return to your home. Your “good” relationship with your dog may not be as good as you think. Yes, our dogs are part of our families. However, they don’t understand things the way we humans do. What you may interpret as proof of love, they may interpret as proof that they are in control instead of you. Love doesn’t always mean respect. At The Doghouse LLC, we thoroughly teach you how to earn your dog’s respect through healthy leadership and understanding their genetic needs. This step will have lifelong benefits in your relationship. Short-term programs cannot generalize the obedience taught. It’s not enough time! For example, my heel definition means walking on the left side and not pulling on the leash. When I stop walking, the dog should automatically sit next to me. The dog can pick up this concept quickly, especially when balancing training with rewards and corrections. That’s just the beginning. I then have to take the same dog and walk him in several other situations; at the park, by bikes, by other dogs, at a pet store, at the hardware store, over food on the ground, in a grassy field, on the sidewalk, up and down, and on a trail. If the dog can do all of these variations of my definition of the heel command (without the aid of the training equipment) then I would say the dog understands the task. Now do the above sequence for the other five obedience commands you want to teach this dog. (Oh yes, and that in 1-2 weeks!)

So what do I recommend?

It takes me about three solid weeks with an average dog to get your pet up to the level of mastery outlined above. Over these three weeks, we’ll teach your dog desired commands and behaviors in multiple scenarios and environments with a variety of distractors. Two trainers take care of them and make sure their new skills carry over when you give the same commands at home. We are also aware that it is not only your dog that needs training. When your family welcomes you back into your home, you need to be prepared to make sure the training is broadcast. My training clients spend an average of 3 hours with a trainer BEFORE their dogs go home with them. We work as a team and the most important member is you!

Again, your dog won’t go home until the training has completely passed to you and you’re comfortable handling him.

Yes, your dog could still test you when he comes home. However, it is no different than when a child comes back from grandma or when students have a substitute teacher in their class. By attending these final sessions with us, we prepare you for this period of reintegration. Then you will have the confidence to respond appropriately to your dog’s behavior. You will become familiar with the commands you have learned and any training tools to guide you through the transition. We are also developing an exit strategy for these tools. When you sign your dog up for doghouse training, we know you’re looking for lifelong results, not just quick fixes. After your dog has fully completed the program, you will be invited to 3 group lessons taught at the facility. These courses are for the trainers to access your handling and continue to challenge you and your dog.

When choosing a trainer and their programs, always do your research and don’t be afraid to ask for training videos. Access the dogs in the videos and see if they are happy and eager to learn. Ask for a tour of the facility. I believe there is a trainer out there for every dog. As you begin to decide who will work with your four-legged member of your family, take the time to research the different training beliefs and methods that exist. Don’t jump into any program or believe in “quick fix” ads.

We offer training programs for dogs from 6 months. Training a younger pup through a board and pull is like sending your toddler to preschool to learn calculus. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stimulate your pup and teach them how fun learning can be. It also doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t inhibit undesirable behaviors. There is a time to prepare for reliability in your training, and it’s not during the puppy stage of development. Have fun bonding and showing off your puppy manners at this stage.

Thank you for considering The Doghouse, LLC with something so important to you and your family. Thank you for giving us the privilege and opportunity to improve your life, your dog’s life and your relationship. It’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.

Call us at 727-201-9790 to schedule a meet/greet at The Doghouse

January is National Train Your Dog Month! Training is a very important part of being a dog owner; it teaches discipline, provides mental stimulation and connects you both. But we know that training isn’t always as easy as snuggling up with your pup…it takes time and energy from both you and your dog. Lucky you are lucky! This month your dog’s training will really pay off when you enter our Train Your Dog Contest… find all the details here!

Here are our top 5 tips for training your dog (and winning our competition)!

1. Be patient

Training takes energy, effort and TIME! When you train your dog (puppy or adult), you change their behavior; it will take more than one try. You should start with the basics (think, sit…stay…) and build on those accomplishments. You are communicating with an animal that doesn’t speak the same language as you! Your dog wants to understand, but give him time to understand your expectations and commands… be really patient!

2. Never blame your dog

We mentioned that patience is key; Then there is your attitude towards training. Always keep a positive attitude when training (and talking to) your pet. Refrain from yelling or scolding, and never blame your dog! If you offer positive reinforcement for even the smallest of accomplishments, dogs will be more likely to repeat those positive actions because they are designed to please you!

3. Train at the right time

Dogs (especially puppies) have a lot of energy; They’ll listen and train much better after sharing some of this. Take your pup for a long walk or visit the dog park before you start training to make sure he gets plenty of exercise and is ready to listen and you can get the most out of your training session.

4. Use the right treats

You’ll be amazed how much harder your dog will work for a quality treat they love! The treats you use affect the success of your workout. Rewards like freeze-dried tripe or rabbit bites are perfect for training because of their size (small enough to toss to any dog), ingredients (100% all meat), and packaging (convenient resealable bags).

5. Give praise

If the treat comes more than a few seconds after your pup has done what you asked, they have no idea what they did to deserve it…or you may have inadvertently rewarded the wrong behavior. While your dog will happily take it, you’ve failed to reward what you’ve taught him. Also, remember to always use a happy and upbeat tone when rewarding!

Follow these five steps to training your pup and you are well on your way to a well behaved and trained dog! And don’t forget to document the training process and post a photo on your Instagram story or feed with #TricksforVEtreaets: get all the details on our Train Your Dog Month contest!

If you think about it, relationships are the same in terms of what they need to grow and thrive, whether they’re human-to-human or dog-to-human. In fact, books on improving your relationship with a partner, child, or friend offer very similar advice as books on bonding with your dog. The following nine ideas will help you improve your relationship with your dog (no judgment given if you try them on your human friends too).

1. Spending time together.

A relationship is about being with each other and sharing experiences. So spending time together strengthens your bond—especially if you spend that time in a pleasant way. Try going to a Sniffari and having some good playtime with your pup.

2. Communicate clearly.

Misunderstanding and confusion are the enemies of good relationships, so be as clear as possible when communicating with your dog. Be consistent with your training signals. Because dogs tend to learn visual cues faster than vocal cues, use the former whenever possible. Dogs pay more attention to what you do than what you say, which means you should pay attention to what you’re doing when communicating with them. You will feel closer when there is greater understanding between the two of you.

3. Put a little love in her food.

The heart of many dogs is their stomach, and preparing healthy, tasty food for your dog shows that you care. You can cook for your dog or just focus on providing the best nutrition in the most delicious way.

4. Train your dog.

Well-trained puppies are given more freedom. If they come when called, they can spend more off-leash time. If they don’t get the food on the table, they can stay around during mealtimes. Training also reduces frustration because when you ask your dog to do something he’s been taught, he’ll know exactly what you want.

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5. Be playful.

There’s a reason I named one of my books Play Together, Stay Together. Scientists have observed that in a variety of species, parents who play with their children have the closest relationships with them, and this appears to be true of relationships between humans and dogs as well. Playing and having fun together strengthens the bond.

6. Keep calm.

Losing your temper, screaming, or freaking out in any way upsets anyone close to the emotional storm, even if it has nothing to do with them. No matter what, exude a sense of calm so your dog can count on you to keep your cool.

7. Learn about dog behavior.

Especially body language and facial expressions that indicate stress. If you can recognize the signs that your dog is anxious or frightened, you will have an easier time protecting or removing your dog from situations that make him uncomfortable. When your dog can rely on you to protect them, the trust between you will improve and so will your relationship. There are a number of excellent books and DVDs on the subject; Look for works by Patricia McConnell; Suzanne Hetts, Daniel Estep and David Grant, and Barbara Handelman.

8. Pay attention to your dog’s likes and dislikes.

By knowing your dog’s preferences (e.g. favorite games and food) you can give him what he really wants and be the source of all things wonderful. Also, keep an eye on what your dog can’t stand. A good place to start is knowing the things most dogs find uncomfortable: head petting, citrus or strong floral scents, loud noises, being stared at, being dressed in clothing that restricts their mobility, and being hugged.

9. Pet your dog.

There is strong evidence that physical contact such as grooming and petting reduces stress in shelter dogs, as measured by reductions in heart rate and the stress hormone cortisol, as well as increases in the anti-stress hormone oxytocin. This has led researchers to believe that physical contact plays a role in strengthening human-canine bonds.

Focusing on your relationship is arguably the most important aspect of living with a dog. After all, you love your dog as a friend and family member, and being with them enriches your life in many ways. It’s all about the relationship worth improving no matter how great it already is.

April 12, 2021

In this article we take a look at: HIDE SHOW

Assistance dogs are an important part of the lives of people with a disability as they perform various tasks for the benefit of these people to improve their lives. In our previous articles, we have discussed various aspects and topics related to the requirements that any service dog must meet. We would like to reaffirm the most important ones.

What are the most important requirements for an assistance dog?

– A person may have a service dog if they have a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability;

– A service dog must be trained for a specific task that is directly related to the person’s disability;

– A companion dog must behave appropriately and have good manners;

– A service dog handler can be asked two questions about the service animal:

Is the dog a service dog because of a disability;

For which tasks is the service dog trained?

There are no identification requirements for service dogs. However, they would be easier to spot in public if they were wearing a vest or other identification accessory.

Some of you may be wondering if there are also age requirements for a dog to become a service dog.

Is there a minimum age for training as a service dog?

Yes, a dog should be at least 6 months old and past the puppy stage to become a service dog. We must mention that some airlines like United Airlines accept service dogs in the cabin from 4 months old.

According to the information listed on United Airlines’ website:

“Service animals are accepted in a cabin for qualified persons with a disability. A service animal is a dog, regardless of breed or type

– from 4 months

– individually trained to perform work or duties for the benefit of a qualified person with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability”.

However, the developmental phase is considered to be as important or even more important than the chronological age. This is due to differences between breeds and individual dogs, as well as differences in development rates. With that in mind, you need to pay attention to your dog as an individual and evaluate their own progress.

What is the best age for a dog to become a service dog?

The optimal age for a service dog is 2 years old. This is the age group “adolescence” and corresponds to the age of a 12 to 14 year old person. Why is this age considered the most appropriate for a dog to be trained as a service dog?

Dogs have completed their physical growth development and they probably won’t reach the size they did at that age. It is recommended that you wait until your dog is 22 months old (sexually mature) to ensure the growth plates on the bones have closed. This usually happens towards the end of puberty. Heavier tasks, particularly mobile tasks such as towing a wheelchair, may be necessary after this age to prevent skeletal injuries.

After a pup acquires basic skills and performs specific tasks, public access training begins. The goal of this training is to assess your canine partner’s ability to successfully perform tasks in public. This can take 6-9 months, but many training program dogs are fully trained by 2-3 years of age.

In terms of mental development, dogs are considered best around the age of 2, as they can focus on specific tasks but don’t feel the pressure of imposed responsibilities.

This stage of puberty is a perfect time when your dog may have already acquired social and obedience skills. This is very helpful in the assistance dog training process as your fluffy friend has experienced different situations on a daily basis and knows how to learn from a human and complete tasks.

Is your canine partner’s early life important to service dog training?

It is very important for the dog’s life and his/her social skills to meet new people and dogs and to experience new situations regularly. This experience is one of the foundations for healthy development and a happy life. Your dog needs the freedom to explore new places and objects to grow into a confident adult with a stable emotional state. The dog’s experiences and early life are taken into account when training to become a service dog. The healthier the rearing environment, the better the results your puppy will show during the training process. It is likely that puppies raised in farms (rustic environment) will be able to cope better with everyday inner-city situations as adult dogs than dogs raised in an urban environment. It is due to the time the dogs in the first group could spend exploring new areas, objects and situations and gaining experience.

What is the average retirement age for a service dog?

In most cases, a prospective service dog spends its first two years in service dog training. The age range of 2 to 10 years can be considered as the average period that a service dog can work. The years after the 10th birthday are considered the retirement period, when a service dog is no longer active as a service dog and can spend the rest of its life as a pet.

There are some service dog training schools that require handlers to retire their service dogs around the age of 10 and 11 years. Dogs must be retired before or on these birthdays. Other schools do not have specific requirements and the retirement age is up to the handler.

Ideally, puppies are socialized during their first year of life by being exposed to as many new experiences as possible. Dogs are at their most sensitive and receptive between this time frame, so the sooner you socialize your dog with other puppies and people, the better.

Unfortunately, not all puppies are properly socialized within this time frame. Some say, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” but that’s not true! Whatever the reason your furry family member wasn’t socialized as a pup, that doesn’t mean they can’t learn how to interact with others and win BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever).

Here are some tips for socializing an adult dog:

Walk your dog often

Daily walks are great opportunities to expose your dog to new sights, sounds, smells, people and other animals. It gives you the opportunity to practice proper behavior with your dog as you are likely to encounter more social situations during your walk.

If your dog barks or reacts in a disruptive or unwanted way, refrain from shouting at them or pulling on their leash as this will increase their excitement and create a negative experience for them. Instead, just go in a different direction and remove them from the situation so they can calm down.

Invite people

Invite a friend or two over and host them in a place where your dog will be comfortable, such as the B. in your living room or garden. Make sure your friends don’t approach, push, or overpower your dog. You want your dog to make the first move and approach your guests when they are ready. If your pup doesn’t come by to check, your guests can toss a treat from time to time to show your dog they’re coming in peace. Keeping the environment very positive and relaxed will help your dog stay relaxed and help them associate new people with good experiences.

Work your way slowly to a dog park

A dog park is the epitome of socialization, but taking your anxious puppy or older dog there right away isn’t always a good idea. Start by walking your dog at the edge of the park and let him watch the other dogs from afar. Gradually work your way up to entry by approaching the fence and allowing your dog to sniff and interact with other dogs. Make it a positive experience by taking it slow and giving it a treat when it responds kindly. This creates positive associations. If your dog becomes aggressive or nervous, move away from the fence and start again when he calms down. Don’t be discouraged if your pup doesn’t have a good first visit; regular and controlled practice will make perfect.

Monitor your attitude

It’s important to remember that dogs sense your emotions, and if you seem stressed or nervous about an experience, your furry friend will too. Body language and tone should keep you calm and confident. Don’t play into your dog’s fearful or nervous reactions. If you comfort them when they are afraid, you will teach them that there is a reason to be afraid. Your dog feeds on your reactions and attitude, so be calm, collected, and pretend the situation isn’t a big deal.

Turn to professionals

If your dog doesn’t respond well to your methods, consult a professional trainer or consider taking him to a dog daycare like Dogtopia. Experienced with all breeds and temperaments, our certified dog trainers can expertly read a dog’s body language and help you determine if day care would be helpful in socializing your senior dog. Find a location near you.

When socializing an older dog, repetition and consistency are the keys to success. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if they don’t get it right away, as it can take much longer for older dogs to adjust to new situations and environments. With any new experience, make sure to create a calm, loving environment with plenty of positive reinforcement, and you’ll have a happy, confident, well-adjusted dog in no time.

March 26, 2021 by The Blue Valley Animal Hospital team

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Your puppy’s first birthday is an important milestone in their life as it begins the transition from puppyhood to adulthood. Although every dog ​​is unique, most dogs reach adulthood between the ages of 1 and 2 years. As your dog grows, you can expect some changes in both behavior and body. Ongoing wellness care becomes more important than ever as their bodies and needs change.

The Blue Valley Animal Hospital team is here to break down these changes so you know what to expect when your dog turns a year old.

What to Expect When Your Dog Turns One Year Old

Physical Development: Depending on your dog’s breed, your puppy may grow beyond a year. Smaller breeds reach physical maturity at around 9 months to a year, while larger breeds can take up to 2 years to stop growing. Your dog is considered to be physically mature when they have reached their full height and the recommended weight for their breed.

Reproductive Ability: Most dogs reach sexual maturity by 6 months of age, when they are ready to begin physical reproduction. While spaying and neutering is usually performed after your dog has reached sexual maturity, it’s always best to speak to your veterinarian about what’s recommended for your dog’s individual needs.

Puppy Behavior: By the time your pet reaches 1 year of age, they may still have the emotional characteristics of a puppy. Your dog will still have some puppy energy and may still be fighting the impulse to chew everything. However, you should settle into the routine of your home and learn some socialization skills. You can always contact us for behavioral advice and tips. Your pet can also benefit from regular socialization in our Doggy Daycare program.

No More Puppy Teeth: By this age, your dog should have all of their permanent adult teeth. This is a great age to introduce regular brushing and dental care for pets to stay healthy for life.

Preventative Grooming: Annual spa visits are essential to your dog’s happy and healthy life. Annual wellness visits allow us to track and monitor the progress of your pet’s development, physical health, diet and nutrition, and general well-being. Wellness assessments also allow us to track oral health, keep you up to date on important vaccinations, and prevent or detect any disease or condition. We can also recommend parasite prevention and heartworm testing.

Vaccines: Vaccinations are an important part of your pet’s continued health and well-being. We’ll help you determine which vaccines are essential to your dog’s health and recommend when to give them lifelong vaccinations.

We are there for you at any age and growth phase of your dog. From puppyhood through adulthood to golden years, the Blue Valley Animal Hospital team is ready to care for your dog. Call us at (913) 681-2818 to schedule an appointment.

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