When training your dog, you need to know a little bit about dog psychology and get into the way his mind works.
You see dogs have always been social animals who used to live in packs many centuries ago and they respect the social hierarchy in their environment.
Even after dogs became domesticated, this trait of being a pack member has already left its genetic imprint on most dogs.
When puppies are born, up to about the time they are separated from their litter (6-8 weeks), he gets most of his training from his mother or other siblings.
When he gets separated from his family, he needs to know whom to follow - who is now the leader of the pack that will take care of him and at the same time he will be expected to serve.
You, as the puppy's new owner must establish that it is you, not the puppy who is the leader of the pack from the day you bring the pup home.
By doing so, you will be more assured that your dog obedience training will be easier, more effective and more fun.
Here are some tips on dog training that you could use to establish that you are the leader of the pack in your home: 1.
Introduce the crate to your pup on his very first day, and let him feel that the crate is not a prison, but rather a place where he can find comfort.
You will notice later on that using a crate can help you housetrain your dog faster, as by nature, no dog would want to pee or poop in a place he considers his home.
2.
Your dog has to know his limits and one way to do this is to not let him eat off your plate.
You should also get him used to the fact that as his master and leader of the pack, you eat first and he should wait until you finish before you give him his food in his bowl.
3.
You must discourage bad behavior such as digging, chewing or excessive barking as early as possible.
When he does something that you like, you can reward him with treats, some words of praise or a hug.
4.
Never try to correct a bad behavior with physical punishment.
You could just change the tone of your voice when trying to discipline your dog or when you want to show your dog that you are not happy with his behavior.
Do this immediately when he shows the undesirable behavior so that he will understand the circumstance of his actions right away.
5.
Do not let your dog jump on you or on other people.
He may seem cute while he is still a puppy, but you wouldn't really want to let this behavior go uncorrected until he's fully grown and may cause harm on you or other people.
By teaching your dog the "sit" command, you can make him stop from excitedly jumping over you or your guest.
What's important to remember is that you have to train your dog with the right amount of firmness and sweetness.
Your dog must learn that if he repeats good behavior, you will reward him with treats such as food, playtime and a lot of loving.