Advanced obedience is to a canine what returning down the toilet seat is to a man – it takes patient training but it can be done. Dog obedience training is among the most satisfying experiences between a dog and his pet owner. You are not just doing yourself a favor; you are also giving your animal a more complete and happy life. Well trained canines are well-adjusted, confident and more intelligent. You can be secure in his behavior even if you leave him alone with strangers.
The most important thing to keep in mind in trying to teach your dog is to establish your position as the superior in your relationship. When he ‘gets’ that you are the top dog, so to speak, it is easier to train him the commands he is expected to obey. Confusing the dog in this aspect can be dangerous; he will be assertive and try to dominate you. Don’t overcompensate and be excessively harsh to show you’re the master; be firm, stand your ground and correct this critical 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 push him down 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 recognizes the patterns you’ve set in your teaching sessions.
Reward training, or positive reinforcement training is rewarding your animal with treats or accolades for correctly accomplishing the command. It is themost useful way to train your pet; it’s what he comprehends. Praise your dog every time he does what you say correctly. Sometimes, this is easy to overlook but make the extra effort not to. Dogs will get confused easily and distinguishing good behavior every time will ensure that he remembers what is right.
Inversely, reprimand the animal whenever he commits a mistake. Do it during the mistake and not when it is past 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 example, if he starts finding the suspicious looking 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 profuse in your praise.