Information About Training Pitbulls

Socialization

• Socialization is one of the most essential parts of training a pit bull. They can be dog aggressive, and a pit bull is less likely to give warning than another dog before becoming aggressive. Pit bulls may not inhibit their bites, which can lead to more severe injury than other breeds. The ideal socialization period is from birth to six months, so start socializing your pit bull early. Enroll it in puppy classes to give it exposure to other dogs its own age. Introduce it to adult dogs as well as to strangers, children, other animals and different environments. Always reward your pit bull with treats and affection -- which it craves -- when it behaves in a calm and friendly manner in new situations. This will teach your pit bull to have confidence and help it avoid fear-based aggression in the future.

Positive Reinforcement

• Pit bulls are extremely affectionate with humans. They crave attention and affection. They are sensitive and don't respond well to harsh punishment, which can actually spark aggressive behavior. These intelligent dogs are eager to please. Use treats and praise to reward your pit bull for correctly obeying a command. You can show your pit bull how to obey basic obedience commands using treats to lure it into position. Start from a young age and teach your pit bull the basic obedience commands of "sit," "stay," "down" and "come." Hold three or four training sessions a day. Each session should be no more than five to 10 minutes or your pit bull will get bored. Keep a positive attitude. Make training a game. If you get frustrated, stop. The more fun your pit bull has during training, the more effective and lasting the training will be.

Boundaries

• Don't be surprised if your pit bull has a stubborn streak. They can be domineering and should have rules to follow around your house. The rules you choose are up to you, but some examples to consider include not allowing your pit bull on the furniture, making the kitchen off limits while you are eating, requiring your pit bull to sit and wait politely before going outside or greeting guests and having the dog earn its meals by performing simple obedience commands or tricks before getting its food. Enforce your pit bull's rules every day to keep it from taking over your house. Never let a pit bull break a rule, or it will feel free to do so again. Enforcing boundaries consistently can help your pit bull avoid bad habits and reinforce basic obedience.

Corrections

• When your pit bull does break a rule, you will have to correct it. Don't punish your pit bull, especially while it is still trying to learn the rules or you can cause resentment, fear or aggression. Instead, interrupt the undesired behavior with a noise or a sharp "no!" When your pit bull responds to the interruption, reward it with praise and a treat instantly. Gradually require your pit bull to leave the mischief alone for longer and longer periods before rewarding it. This method allows you to teach your pit bull what type of behavior you will accept, rather than simply telling it that it cannot do something. Giving your pit bull an alternative will help it avoid confusion and fear.

Exercise

• Pit bulls are energetic and can be destructive when they are bored. To avoid habits such as digging, chewing, whining or attention-barking, take your pit bull on at least two thirty-minute walks each day. Play games such as fetch or tug-of-war in the yard. Go hiking, jogging or swimming. It doesn't matter how you exercise your pit bull. Just do it every day to help it burn extra energy that can get it into trouble. Provide plenty of toys, chews and bones for your pit bull to exercise its mind and keep itself occupied during down times as well.