Common Dog Training Mistakes

Dog Training Mistakes

Has your dog been fully trained yet? If not, we strongly encourage that you address this as soon as possible. Proper training involves more than just teaching Fido good manners. It is actually critical to his protection, as well as the safety of any humans or pets he interacts with. While you don’t have to be an expert to teach your pup basic commands like Sit and Stay, it’s crucial to take training seriously and utilize suitable approaches. Continue reading for a list of some of the most common dog training mistakes from a local Coles County, IL veterinarian.

Being inconsistent

Fido’s training consists of more than just teaching him commands. You will also need to educate him on some basic petiquette. This could range from staying off the couch to not jumping on your brother when he comes around. Be consistent. Don’t let your dog sleep on your bed one night and then punish him for it the following day. That will simply teach your puppy that it makes no difference whether he obeys you or not. That is not the mindset you are looking for!

Not Using Positive Reinforcement

There are numerous strategies for training dogs. We always counsel people to avoid negative reinforcement. That includes things like shock collars and even using a tone that might inspire fear. Using fear or pain as motivation will fail in the long run and may even make your canine companion fearful of you. While there may be a place for these devices in some professional training circumstances, it’s best to stay optimistic. Instead of focusing on your cute pet’s blunders, reward him for doing well.

This is also relevant to your canine companion’s impression of training. You want Fido to think of’school’ as enjoyable!

Boring Your Dog

Dogs often have short attention spans … except when they are watching their masters prepare tasty food. Fido will probably lose interest in training after ten or fifteen minutes. Some pups may not even last that long! That is perfectly OK. You can divide your pet’s training curriculum into several short sessions.

Improper Class Curriculum

Man’s Best Friend is capable of learning a wide range of tricks and commands, including some complex ones. not all dogs need to know how to fetch mail or turn lights on and off. However, your canine companion should be familiar with a few fundamental commands. 

The core doggy obedience instructions are Sit, Stay Down, Heel, and Lay Down. Drop It and Leave It are also extremely handy. Focus on these first before moving on to more sophisticated commands or cute tricks.

Confusing Your Dog

Did you know dogs can learn more than 165 words? That is quite a lot. However, this does not mean that they understand our actual language. To Fido, ‘Sit’ does not signify the same thing as ‘Fido, go sit down right now!’ since he is unable to contextualize it with other words.

When communicating with your pet, always use the same words or phrases.

Not testing Fido

It is critical for you to ensure that your dog is genuinely obeying directions and not simply doing whatever he thinks would get him a treat. Put your pet through his paces in various circumstances to see how he responds. For example, invite a friend with a dog over and see if Fido would still comply with his pal present.

Overfeeding

We already discussed the importance of employing positive reinforcement. Praise and pets are, of course, important components of that. However, sweets will truly clinch the deal. You want your dog to associate following the task or instruction you give him with a favorable outcome.

You will need to use caution here. You don’t want to utilize large treats because you can wind up overfeeding your charming student. Training snacks are ideal. After all, they’re designed for this. You can also use thin pieces of hot dog or shredded deli meat. Just stay with the safe options. Contact your veterinarian for further information.

Not having fun

Our canine companions are incredibly observant, and can easily pick up on our moods. You should only work with your pet when you are in a good mood. If you’re stressed, depressed, or furious, your dog will sense it.

Of course, spending time with your pooch can help you feel better on a terrible day. If they sense anything is wrong, many dogs will try to console their owners. That is fine! Fido’s unconditional love is one of the reasons why he is such a valuable gift.

Time it right.

work with your pet at roughly the same time every day, even if it is only for a few minutes. Ideally, you’ll want to choose a time when your furry friend is still energetic but not overly excited. If Fido is eager to go for a stroll, he will probably not pay much attention. You’ll also have a hard time communicating with your adorable student if he falls asleep in class.

Distractions

Choose a location where your pet won’t have much to focus on other than you. If there is a cat, squirrel, or cheeseburger around, your dog may struggle to concentrate on his homework.

Giving Up.

Our canine buddies are all different, and some learn faster than others. If you’re stumped, don’t give up. That won’t help you or your dog. In the long term, you may wind up with a pooch with behavioral disorders. If you believe you’ve struck a wall, consult with a professional behaviorist.

Not refreshing.

Even after your dog has learned his fundamental obedience commands, have him practice them on occasion. This boosts your dog’s self-confidence. It’s also a fantastic approach to ensure that the training was effective.

Not having fun when training. Fido is critical to both his own and the safety of all people and animals around him. That suggests it is a serious business. However, the classic adage, “all work and no play,” also applies to our canine pals! Training should be enjoyable for both of you. Be cheerful and give lots of compliments and cuddles.

Stopping Training

Who says you have to stop once your dog has learnt the basics? Show Fido some charming tricks or practice advanced instructions.

Book an appointment at our Coles County, IL veterinary clinic 

Do you need to bring your canine companion? Is Fido due for a checkup, vaccines, or parasite control? Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any service. As your local Coles County, IL pet clinic, we are here to assist!