Advanced Obedience Dog Training

Definition

• Some advanced obedience commands you may wish to teach your dog are how to lie down, retrieve items, drop or leave objects alone, and even run alongside you on a leash while you ride your bike or Rollerblade. The number of things you can teach a dog is limited only by your imagination and patience to actually help a dog learn how to accomplish the desired task.

Function

• Advanced obedience training is good for dogs. Obedience training will help your dog feel closer to you, and that will make for a happier dog. Additionally, advanced obedience training teaches your dog what types of behaviors are acceptable and what behaviors are not, so that you can more easily bring your dog into social situations, which he'll enjoy. Dogs who know advanced commands are safer dogs, because they can be relied upon to do as told in potentially dangerous situations, such as when he accidentally dashes out of your house and runs into the street.

Motivation

• Dogs, like humans, need motivation to do things that they may not otherwise have wanted to do on their own. Find what motivates your pooch. For instance, a dog that loves dog treats may be coaxed into learning and performing advanced commands if he learns that doing so will earn him treats. A dog that loves to please his master may respond well to training if rewarded with lots of praise. Remember to always use positive reinforcement. Using punishment when a dog fails to obey will only result in a fearful dog.

Tools

• Some dog owners and trainers choose to use certain tools to aid in the training process. For instance, small, hand-held clickers that make a loud, popping noise when pushed can be used to correct unwanted behavior, and pinch collars can be used to correct leash pulling. There are many tools available for addressing many types of behaviors and training needs. When choosing a training tool, always make sure that the tool does not result in harm to your dog. If a dog does not respond well to a certain tool, discontinue its use.

Mind-set

• Treat advanced obedience training as a positive, fun activity rather than a dreaded chore so that your dog will see it that way as well. A dog may learn a new command overnight, but getting him to consistently obey that command will require lots of practice. Work on one command at a time, being consistent in rewarding the dog for obeying. Once a command has been mastered at home, try practicing it out in the real world, where there are many distractions. Don't get discouraged if a dog doesn't seem to understand what you want him to do. Simply keep at it. If you're getting exasperated, take a break and come back when you're ready to try patiently again.

Training

• Some specific commands you may want to teach your dog once he knows the basic sit and stay are heel, prolonged stay, bring and drop. Advanced commands are taught the same way basic commands are taught. Ask your dog to perform the desired activity and pair the command with a hand gesture. What gesture you use is completely up to you. Once he knows what to do, he'll begin doing it on his own in exchange for a treat or praise. For instance, if teaching your dog to bring, have someone across the room give him a toy or other item. From across the room, say "bring," and use an accompanying hand gesture. You might start with, "Fido, bring." He may respond to either his name or the bring by coming toward you with the item. As he's approaching you, praise him by saying, "Bring," so that he understands that the action he's performing is the "bring." When he gets to you, gently take the item while saying, "Bring." When he releases the item, reward him. Next time, try just saying "Bring," instead of "Fido, bring." He'll catch on soon enough.