Dog Training Resources

Saturday, September 04, 2010

The Basics of Effective Pitbull Training

If you’re reading this, you already know that pitbulls are among the best things ever created. They are fun, active and one of the healthier breeds of dog there are. You did not make a mistake in adopting one of these fantastic hounds. Now, you want to take it to the next level—training. What are the best training techniques and how can we apply this effectively to our blue pitbulls today?

I don’t care what some people have said—every dog CAN be trained, pitbulls included. They might seem overly vigorous and even combative with other canines, but definitely they can be trained and you can do this by using their mindset to your best advantage. Pitbull training is most effective when you use positive reinforcement to get them to do what you want.

What does positive training mean? This simply means that you reward the completed tasks with a treat, or better yet, effusive praise. Remember, pitbulls are very affectionate and sociable pets to humans. They love to please you and is eager to be obedient if they see that any particular behavior makes you happy with them. The problem many trainers fail to see is not the stubbornness of your dog— it is the breakdown in communication when your pet doesn’t understand what exactly you want with him.

It is therefore critical that you be as consistent and repetitive as possible in training. Animals are obviously not gifted with cognitive skills like we humans are, so use simple and consistent commands in obedience training. Repetition builds understanding so be patient when your dog doesn’t comprehend what you want right away. He will eventually get it as long as you use the same words all the time and use the right techniques in executing it.

If you want to correct a certain behavior, see where your dog is coming from first. Is he being destructive or barking excessively? This might be because they are bored with a lot of pent-up energy inside. Blue pitbulls are one of the most active and energetic dogs there are so you need to let them have their exercise every day. They say a tired pitbull is a good pitbull. You don’t want them to get too tired as to be completely exhausted; but you want them to release nervous energy so that they don’t become destructive and ruin things around your house.

Pitbulls not only need physical stimulation, they need mental stimulus to help them learn better as well. Make your training sessions fun and proactive. They will lose attention after 15 minutes so it’s best if you limit training to 10 to 15 minutes. Use creative and innovative techniques in a stress free environment to spur them on to learn more.

Remember, pitbull training is only as effective as the master who implements it. Be kind but firm and strong when you deal with him to let him know that you’re the boss. When he understand and accepts that you as his leader, it will be much easier to train him. Build a good and solid relationship with your pet and enjoy many more years of happy memories ahead!

What do you know about blue pitbulls? Get the best pitbull training tips all experts use, and health tips on how to care for your pitbull when you visit HealthyHappyDogs.com today.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Your Dog's Advanced Obedience Training Made Easy

Can you just imagine how much easier life would be if your dog's well trained? Many don't even attempt to try it because it looks impossible. Actually, with some patience and determination, advanced obedience dog training is not only possible- it will be one of the most fulfilling experiences you will ever have with your dog. A trained dog is a happier dog. They are well-adjusted, confident and mentally disciplined even outside your home. You can leave your pet with other people and know that no harm will be done.

First and foremost in canine training is the establishment of hierarchy between you and your dog. You need to set your position as the leader early on. As soon as the dog understands this, the simpler it will be to train him. Neglecting to do so can spell trouble. There will be a struggle for dominance and aggressive behavior will ensue. Be strong and firm in teaching. When you see the beginnings of the alpha dog coming out, correct it immediately but do not be overly severe and mean to him.

A firm and confident voice will help deliver our commands effectively. While you speak, gently guide him to what exactly you want him to do. In the beginning it will take several attempts before he will understand what you mean; but advanced obedience training will be easier as soon as the dog gets the repetitive commands and their corresponding actions you've been using in your training classes.

The best, indeed the only way to train animals is through the reward and punishment system. Reward your pet with enthusiastic praise upon completion on a correctly executed command. Be consistent in remembering what he did to deserve praise and make an effort to praise him every time thereafter. Dogs can get confused with what is expected of him if you don't praise him for the same thing repeatedly.

On the other hand, do not neglect to reprimand the dog for wrong behavior. Do this at the time he is committing the mistake not after so he will know that action is wrong. Chastising the animal will also emphasize right from wrong. For example, if he eats dirt in the street scold him immediately. Right after put dog food in front of him and enthusiastically praise him wen he eats the latter.

Keep dog obedience training sessions short and sweet throughout the day. Keep doing the commands you want him to learn. This will drive the lessons home. Teach him at different times in the day so his obedience is not relegated to only a certain time and place.

The stunts movie dogs do are complex and impressive. They also all started with Sit. Begin with the simpler commands and progress from there. Patience and consistency are your best tools for dog training. Use the same principles as you did in the earlier stages, and it will bring you success in the more challenging tasks in the future.

There you go, the basic and fundamental tools you will need in advanced obedience training for dogs. There's nothing left to do now but start training!

Geraldine Dimarco knows that dog obedience training is a invaluable tool for all pet owners. Find free access on Advanced Obedience today.

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