Obedience Training for Small Dogs

Dogs are not born knowing the correct way to behave. Like children, they have to be taught boundaries, as well as consequences for crossing those boundaries. Obedience training is a great way for small dogs to learn. It's also provides an opportunity for dog owners to watch the proper way to train a dog.

  1. Classroom Atmosphere

    • Obedience classes usually take place once a week for six weeks. Dog owners attend the classes along with their small dogs and learn techniques from the class instructor. Classes can be done one-on-one with just you and the trainer, or they can take place in a group setting with other dogs and their owners. Class instructors will demonstrate how to train a dog to listen to a particular command, and dog owners will practice the technique.

    Obedience Training Instructors

    • Some people choose to train their small dog on their own at home. However, an upside of taking your dog to obedience classes is working with an expert in dog training. In most cases, dog obedience instructors have to complete training courses of their own in order to be certified to train dogs. They tend to have a great deal of experience and knowledge about what techniques work and don't work with small dogs.

    Techniques Used

    • Most obedience classes use positive reinforcement techniques instead of negative reinforcement. Positive reinforcement rewards good behavior with treats, affection or verbal praise. Some classes also teach dog owners how to use a clicking device--another form of positive reinforcement. Over time, dogs learn that the clicking sound means they have done a good job.

    Behaviors Learned in Class

    • In obedience classes, puppies learn how to sit on command, walk on a leash without pulling and come when the owner calls them. Group obedience classes also teach dogs how to socialize with other dogs. Bad habits like chewing on furniture, peeing inside the house and begging for food can also be helped during formal dog training.

    Other Info

    • Obedience training can make the relationship between an owner and a dog less stressful. It can also keep an owner from getting frustrated and lashing out in anger. Aggressive dogs will not necessarily benefit from obedience training. Aggressive or violent dogs need an environment without other dogs present.