10 Easy Steps to Training Your Dog

Whether you're trying to teach an old dog new tricks or you're looking for ways to give a new puppy some guidance, there are simple ways you can lead your dog in the right direction to being your polished pal. With a little patience and positive reinforcement, you'll be relieved to know that a few quick training tips will lead to positive results.

  1. Repetition

    • 1. One key thing to remember throughout the entire training process is that you must repeat your actions often. Once your dog "gets" it, you may never have to remind him of some things ever again. But patience on your part to continue to enforce your point over and over again is going to help him retain and commit.
      2. When you're expecting your pup to remember an action, try to be as consistent as you can in your tone, actions and process until he gets the hang of it.

    Voice Commands

    • 3. Don't yell at your dog. You don't want him to confuse the sound of your voice with negativity or else he will be less likely to listen. Instead, use sharp noises or short, firm commands when communicating with him.
      4. When he has done something favorable, call him by his name in an excited, inviting manner.

    Rewards

    • 5. As your dog is learning to obey your commands, be sure to give him rewards or treats for his good behavior. For example, if you are walking him and you ask him to heel or stop, give him a treat when he follows directions.
      6. Show him lots of love and affection when you greet him. This teaches him to be obedient and trusting to you because he will begin to recognize that your attention is a reward.

    Potty Training

    • 7. Keep your dog on a regular food and water schedule to mold his potty sessions. Immediately after he's eaten, take him out for a walk so that he can associate being outside with relieving himself.
      8. At night, to curb his desire to overdrink and therefore need to urinate frequently, give him cubes of ice in his dish instead of water so that he can slowly get the hydration he needs.

    Positive Reinforcement

    • 9. As your dog is learning to obey your rules and get into a routine that is good for the both of you, remember to give him positive reinforcements in the way of car rides and issuing new toys or treats.
      10. Remember to use the term "good dog" to praise him when he's doing something you want, and it is likely that a good dog is exactly what you will end up with.