Dogs are like children. When they are well-behaved and disciplined they are a pleasure to have around. But when they are boisterous and disobedient, they can drive you mad! If you have just got a new puppy, it’s time to learn about dog training.

Firstly, there’s absolutely no truth to the myth that certain dogs cannot be trained. While it may be more difficult to train some dogs, it can be done. And of course some dogs are easier to train. It all comes down to the ability of the trainer and his or her communication skills.

A dog that is trained will be happy, relaxed and secure. All dogs instinctively like to follow commands, and they will always turn to one person as their leader. This is how they behaved when they used to live and hunt in packs. One dog was always the leader, or the ‘alpha’. You will need to take on this role with your dog.

The first step is to teach your new puppy or dog their name. When a dog knows his or her name, they will react each and every time you call. This will form the foundation of subsequent training.

The first important command is ‘come’. Hold a small treat near the nose and firmly call its name, for example ‘Fluffy, come!’ The puppy will immediately come forward to get the treat. Continue the process by stepping a bit further back each time. When the dog responds and comes to you, lavish it with lots of praise and affection.

Use the same method when you teach ‘sit’ and ‘stay’. Always talk in a firm tone whilst giving a dog commands so he or she can identify the varying tones of your voice. Your dog will soon learn when you are playful or when you mean business! Praising is essential because every dog want to please his or her ‘master’.

Don’t get too carried away with treats. They are necessary tools in the early phases of training, but too many treats may cause the dog to obey your commands just because there’s a treat to follow. The dog will learn that if you are obeyed, his or her reward is praise and love. Never give your dog treats outside of training sessions. This can cause confusion.

If you want to compete at dog shows and other competitions, it’s advisable for you and your dog to attend a professional dog training course. You will both learn the relevant behavior requirements and other etiquette rules. There’s plenty of helpful websites about such courses.

Getting rid of the bad habits your pet has developed can be difficult if you don’t have the training and tools you need. When you have a New Jersey dog trainer to help you get rid of bad habits and develop new habits, you will find that dog training in NJ is affordable, fast and easy!