Legal Advice and Resources

A Brief Course in Advanced Obedience Canine Training

Advanced obedience is to a dog what returning down the toilet seat is to a man - it takes patient training but it can be done. Dog obedience training is one of the most satisfying experiences between a dog and his pet owner. You are not just doing yourself a favor; you are giving your animal a more complete and happy life. Obedient canines are well-adjusted, self-assured and mentally quicker. You can be confident in his behavior even if you leave him alone with strangers.

The most important thing to keep in mind in trying to train your animal is to set your role as the head in your relationship. When he understands that you are the top dog, so to speak, it is easier to teach him the commands you expect him to obey. Confusing the animal in this aspect can be dangerous; he will be aggressive and strive to dominate you. Don’t overcompensate and be excessively harsh to show you’re the master; be firm, stand your ground and fix this unfavorable trait as soon as you see it rearing its ugly head.

Make your leadership known by using a strong and sure tone in your speaking. When you give the command to “Sit!” gently guide him in the said position firmly. You may have to go through several tries with each command, especially in the beginning. Development from basic to more advanced obedience training is relatively simpler once your dog understands the patterns you’ve established in your training classes.

Reward training, or positive reinforcement training is rewarding your dog with doggie treats or accolades for correctly doing the command. It is themost useful way to train your pet; it’s what he understands. Praise your pet every time he does something right. At times, this is easy to overlook but make the extra effort not to. Dogs get confused easily and distinguishing good behavior every time will make certain that he remembers what is right.

Inversely, chastise your dog whenever he makes a mistake. Do it during the mistake and not after so the dog will understand the error of his ways. Scolding him will also emphasize the difference between what is good from what is wrong. For instance, if he starts finding the unidentified dirt on his path fascinating enough to eat, scold him as soon as he does it. Then put dog food before him to eat. When he starts eating his own food, be lavish in your praise.