Dog Training Help: Ten Top Tips for Success

1. Be Consistent with Your Commands

Using consistent, clear commands is essential for effective dog training. Designate a single word for each command, such as ‘sit’ or ‘stay,’ and avoid using different words for the same action, which can confuse your dog. Each command should sound distinctly different from others to help your dog understand what you want. Remember, your dog does not understand English like a human does, so clarity matters.

2. Reward Good Behaviour Consistently

It is crucial to reward only good behaviour and do so consistently. While it might seem obvious not to reward bad behaviour, sometimes it’s tricky to distinguish whether your dog is ignoring commands or simply does not understand. Use treats sparingly so they remain a special positive reinforcement. Praise and affection are also effective rewards that encourage your dog.

3. Never Withhold Proper Meals as Punishment

Your dog’s meals should never be used as a training tool. Withholding or delaying meals due to non-compliance is unfair and unrelated to training rewards like treats or praise. Providing adequate and appropriate feeding supports your dog’s health and wellbeing, fostering a better learning environment.

4. Ensure Everyone Uses the Same Commands

All family members or people interacting regularly with your dog should use the same commands and follow your training protocols. If friends or relatives are not updated on your training progress, they should avoid issuing commands or offering rewards. Restrict their interaction to play and companionship to prevent confusing your dog during training.

5. Use Gentle Reprimands

If you need to correct your dog’s behaviour, a sharp word is sufficient. Avoid yelling, hitting or intimidating your dog as negative reinforcement is not only ineffective but can harm your dog’s confidence and happiness. Positive training methods help dogs learn without fear, strengthening your relationship.

6. Understand Training Takes Longer with Older Dogs

Training a young dog with no prior habits is often easier than re-training an adult dog. Older dogs may take more time as they might have ingrained behaviours. Patience and persistence are key. Recognise that training progress varies, and avoid comparing older dog training to that of puppies.

7. Teach Commands Both Individually and in Sequence

It’s useful to teach your dog a sequence of commands, but also important that your dog understands each command individually. Dogs sometimes learn to respond to a sequence rather than each separate command, which can cause problems in real-world situations. Ensuring your dog responds to individual commands improves reliability.

8. Teach Your Dog Their Name First

Before moving on to commands like ‘sit’ or ‘stay,’ your dog should reliably respond to their name. This skill helps get their attention and indicates that a command will follow, improving communication. Sometimes non-compliance is simply because the dog doesn't realise you are addressing them.

9. Provide Clear Feedback for Every Command

Always respond to your dog with either praise for correct behaviour or a firm ‘no’ followed by a repeat of the command. Reward compliance afterward to reinforce learning. Clear feedback helps your dog associate commands with expected behaviour and rewards, reducing confusion and avoiding the need to revisit basics.

10. Know When to Pause Training Sessions

Training sessions should end on a positive note. Watch for signs that your dog is tired or frustrated, such as loss of focus or grumpiness. If your dog struggles with the last command, step back to a simpler task they can succeed at and reward them. This approach keeps your dog motivated and receptive to future training.

Training your dog is a rewarding journey that benefits from patience, consistency and kindness. By following these top tips, you can build a strong bond and encourage your dog to learn skills that will last a lifetime.

For those looking to find a new puppy, it’s best to seek a reputable breeder who prioritises health and temperament. Responsible ownership and ethical breeding ensure your training experience begins on the right paw.