Dog training is never easy, which is why some have chosen to make it a successful business. I have experience with dog training, both in attending professional sessions with my own dogs, and choosing to train other dogs at home without the aid of classes. This post highlights my experience and provides some tips on how you can help support your dog in becoming the best dog they can be.
Tip #1 - Don't rely only on treats.
Training is not really about treats. They help, but the biggest tip is to keep the dog's attention on you at all times. If your dog can only pay attention for five minutes, your training should be five minutes. Increase it by five minutes each time, and if they don't do what you are asking them to do, do not treat them. Clicker training or voice training has been effective for me. I 'click' my tongue when I want Moka to listen, and if she doesn't, I turn my back to her or stop on the walk. Once she returns her attention to me, I click my tongue, and give her a pet. The treats are the reward for the actual command.
Tip #2 - Most dogs get bored, especially the independent breeds
Jindo's are known as stubborn. This is not entirely accurate, as they have evolved over many years as free-roaming dogs that protect their families homes. A better word would be confident. Considering that, they need a strong leader that they feel is directing them to do something more important than looking for predators or invaders. That instinct will never go away, but a Jindo needs variety. Change up your training location once they are comfortable, but never forget that they are hunters and have the visual acuity of a crow. Caww.
Tip #3 - Remove distractions
Moka and I have been training in the backyard with a long leash between us. She is a bit too nervous to train inside, as the noises from within the house can still sometimes take her attention away from training. We have been removing any toys and keeping the yard free of anything that could distract her, and she is responding well. We schedule twenty minutes sessions, and that keeps it focused for both of us. Even dogs can get frustrated sometimes.
Tip #4 - Keep it routine
Dogs thrive on schedules. Think about it though - we also like to know when we need to be somewhere, what we're doing, etc. If our own schedules are all over the place, our lives sometimes can be too. It can really help your dog if you try to stay as consistent as possible. Of course, things happen and we all have to adjust, but just as long as your pup knows it's just an off day, they'll be fine.
Tip #5 - Finish strong
Keep the same amount of energy throughout the training. Stay focused, and reward your pup the same way each time they respond as intended. When the session is over, provide some pets, and return to your normal behaviour. Keep the extra pets and special treats just for the training sessions until your pet is exhibiting a high-level of responsiveness to your commands.
Training is not a 'one and done' thing
We all have bad days. But, if you notice your dog is regressing into old and/or negative behaviour, it's time to assess why that may be happening, and get back to basic training. Training your dog is not about them 'performing'. When dogs respond to basic commands, it keeps them, you and others safe.
Comments