MAY '23 - Pawsitively Pets issue to publish online | Page 16

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Wise Words from WAGZ

Ten Quick Training Tips :
1 ) Make training fun ! Many of the exercises I ask you to do for training feel like play . Enjoy the time you spend with your dog . It will build a relationship that will last a lifetime .
2 ) Get everyone involved . It makes training easier and faster if the household is all on the same page .
3 ) Identify behaviors you want your dog to know , including SIT , DOWN , STAY , HEEL , COME , OFF . Teach and reinforce those behaviors .
4 ) Reward behaviors you like . Make those rewards awesome ! Find out what motivates your dog : perhaps food , toys , exercise , positive words , and touch . Then use it a lot ! The more difficult the task you ' re teaching , the more valuable the reward .
5 ) Do NOT reward behaviors you don ' t like . Giving too much attention to behaviors like jumping or nipping while playing will inadvertently reinforce that behavior . What is cute as a puppy may not be so cute when your dog weighs in at 50 + pounds !
6 ) Practice often . 10 to 15 minute sessions 2 or 3 times a day for formal training is about right . But don ' t forget , any time you spend with your dog , they are learning . They are watching you and seeing what gets them what they want and need .
7 ) Keep it simple in the beginning . Let your dog experience success . Reward the baby steps and slowly chain them together . Build on what your dog knows . If he is good at lying down , the next task may be an army crawl . If they like to paw at you , maybe shake or high five would be great .
8 ) Don ' t talk so much ! Your dog doesn ' t speak human and all that chatter is confusing . Say a simple command one time and wait . Your dog will read body language , facial expression , and tone of voice .
9 ) Make learning a regular part of your dog ' s life . Just as it benefits humans to become lifelong learners , training and learning benefits your dog as they age . It can slow the aging process of the brain , prevent senility , and may reduce destructive behavior resulting from boredom .
10 ) Take a training class to learn more ! A trainer can offer you help with Obedience , Socialization , Trick Training , or maybe your pet would be a great Therapy Dog . Come join the fun !

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- Laura Orndorf , Certified Dog Trainer & AKC Evaluator