Instructions
Use positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is key in dog training, according to the Humane Society of America; dogs respond best to praise and food. A reward encourages your dog to repeat a good behavior.
Practice timing. Positive reinforcement must occur within seconds of the dog accomplishing the desired behavior. For example, the Humane Society says, if you ask your dog to sit and it does, but you delay delivering a treat until after it stands back up, the dog will think you are rewarding it for standing, not sitting.
Keep your commands short and to the point. Dogs don't understand long, complicated sentences. Keep your commands to one or two words. The most common training commands, the Humane Society states, are "sit," "down," "stay," "heel," "come," "off," "leave it" and "watch me."
Stay consistent. Everyone who regularly interacts with the dog should use the same commands for training to avoid confusing the animal. The Humane Society suggests posting a list of commands where all family members can easily refer to them when in the process of training a puppy or dog new to the household so everyone is on the same page.
Avoid rewarding bad behavior or unwanted actions. If you let the dog out when it barks at neighborhood sounds, you are inadvertently rewarding it for barking. If you pet a nervous dog when company comes to the door, you are showing it that you recognized the perceived threat.
Keep a variety of treats readily available. Food is the best positive reinforcement for most dogs. The treat should be bite-sized and easily gulped down so the dog will look for more. Don't use treats that are large, need to be chewed or can break apart and fall on the floor. Accompany food rewards with verbal praise. Always say "good dog" or give an enthusiast "yes," then give your dog a treat.
Reduce treats as the dog becomes reliable at performing a certain behavior. Once you are confident the dog will obey a certain command, gradually reduce food rewards while continuing verbal praise. Lessen your enthusiasm as the dog becomes more confident in performing the behavior until eventually it will be rewarded with only a quiet "good dog." The dog will soon respond solely to your verbal praise.
How to Use Best Practices in Dog Obedience Training
Training your dog is critical to making it an obedient, confident, happy and welcome member of your family. There are many styles of dog training, but there are recognized best practices that will ensure your pup responds to you as pack leader and becomes a well-mannered member of society.