Imagine being transported to an alien world where nothing makes sense. Likewise, entering your home can be such a confusing and scary place for your dog at first. He doesn’t know our language or our rules until we explain them to him.
This is where basic training or puppy training comes in. Some people still call it dog obedience training. However, dog obedience training is no longer a term used by positive reinforcement trainers as it is not focused on forcing a dog to “obey” but rather on helping us to communicate effectively with our dogs. Today we call it puppy training, manners training, basic training, or dog socialization. This type of training communicates to your canine companion the behaviors you desire and what is expected of him. Exercising his mind makes him more confident and relaxed. As a bonus, basic training strengthens your bond.
Before training your dog on your own, check out the many helpful dog training resources available both in books and online. Or hire a private dog trainer to help you in your quest to communicate with your pup.
How much does basic puppy or dog training cost?
Private dog training is generally more expensive than classes, ranging from $50 to $150 per session and up, depending on where you live.
Alternatively, attend a class with your canine companion. Instructors generally teach pet owners how to train their puppies as much as they train the dogs themselves. Classes typically cost $30 to $60 per session or more, for four to eight sessions.
Puppy training at home
Even if you use a trainer or attend a class, you should do short dog training sessions yourself at home. Train for no more than five to 10 minutes at a time and three sessions a day. Start without distractions, adding them only after your dog understands what is expected of him. And don’t bore him by repeating an exercise too many times. After he executes the signal several times successfully, end on a high note.
Always prepare your dog for success during dog training sessions. If you have a very energetic pup, train him with a walk or play session before the training session. You teach your dog certain behaviors and a language. Anyone working with him must be consistent in the language and methods used. Always be patient. It can take weeks or months for a dog to perform a signal reliably.
Education classes for puppies
Most puppy training classes teach some basic dog behaviors, such as paying attention, sitting, lying down, walking on a loose leash, and leaving dangerous objects on cue. This is why we now refer to commands (which fall under the old type of obey training) as signals.
If your puppy is between 8 weeks and 6 months old, a puppy kindergarten course may do the trick. A puppy training course covers a lot of additional information on how to raise a puppy such as crate training, house training, handling, socialization, bite inhibition and impulse control .
Adult dogs over 6 months old can take a basic etiquette or basic beginner skills course.
Positive Reinforcement Puppy Training
Current dog training, based on science, uses positive reinforcement. This means that you use a reward marker like saying “yes” immediately after your dog correctly performs the signal (like “sit”) you gave. After praising your dog, give him a primary reinforcer like a small treat. Always have your reward treat ready before giving your cue.
Positive reinforcers can be so much more than treats. Anything your dog finds valuable can be used, depending on the behavior.
Positive reinforcers from basic puppy or dog training include:
- verbal praise
- play
- life rewards like a walk, toys, chew toys and cuddles.
As a bonus, positive dog training methods strengthen the bond with your best canine friend and make him look forward to working with you.
What to avoid during puppy training
Do not use aversive methods of dog obedience that employ punishment, pain, or fear to coerce a dog into performing a signal. These include leash jumping, yelling, throwing, and rough physical handling. They are not scientifically valid, can ruin your bond, and can lead to unwanted behavior, such as reactivity or aggression.
Puppy training communicates to your canine companion what is expected of him, which helps him to be a confident and happy pup. Working as a team strengthens your bond and enriches your life. Think of all the adventures you will have together when he understands his world!
