Dog training is one of the most important things you can do for your dog. It helps them to understand what you want from them, and how to behave in different situations.
However, many dog owners make mistakes when they are training their dogs. For example, one of the most common dog training mistakes is not starting early enough. The younger they are, the easier it will be to train them.
Similarly, some pet owners are not cut out to be trainers, they simply don’t have the time or the stamina to train their dogs. However, instead of searching for dog professionals, they leave their dogs untrained which leads to behavioral issues and the dogs ultimately land in dog pounds and rescue centers.
Therefore, we suggest that you find a professional trainer if you can’t train your dog. Simply search dog training near me to view the professionals in your area.
Now, let’s discuss five of the most common dog training mistakes. They are:
1. Inconsistency in Training
One of the most common mistakes that dog owners make is not being consistent with their commands. Dogs are very intelligent creatures, and they quickly learn what words mean and which behaviors are expected of them.
However, if you are not consistent in your use of commands and in the expectations you set for your dog, he will become confused and frustrated. Dogs need clarity and consistency in order to be well-behaved.
How to ensure consistency in dog training?
The best way to ensure that you are being consistent in your commands is to use the same words for the same behaviors every single time. For example, if you want your dog to sit, always say “sit” – don’t use the word “sitting” or “sit down” interchangeably.
In addition, it is important to be consistent in the tone of voice that you use when giving a command. Dogs can interpret the tone of our voice, so if you use a happy, excited tone when asking your dog to sit, but a stern, authoritative tone when asking him to stay, he will become confused.
It is also important that everyone in the household uses the same commands and tone of voice when dealing with the dog. Otherwise, the dog will become confused about what is expected of him.
2. Lack of positive Reinforcements
Another common mistake is not using positive reinforcement. Dogs respond much better to praise and treats than they do to scolding or punishment. When you catch your dog doing something right, make sure to praise him enthusiastically so that he knows that he is on the right track.
However, it’s essential to not confuse conditioning with permissiveness. Positive reinforcement is when you give your dog a treat after he does something you’ve asked him to do, in order to encourage him to do it again.
Positive conditioning simply means that you are reinforcing desired behaviors so that your dog is more likely to repeat them in the future. It is an important part of dog training.
On the other hand, permissiveness would be if you allowed your dog to jump on the couch, even though you’ve previously told him not to because he’s been good all day and you don’t want to scold him.
The drawbacks of permissiveness in dog training are that it can lead to confusion about what behaviors are and are not allowed, and it can cause your dog to become spoiled.
3. Overexertion
Dogs also need a lot of exercise. If they are cooped up in the house all day with no outlet for their energy, they will become bored and destructive. Make sure to give your dog plenty of opportunities to run and play so that he can stay healthy and happy.
However, don’t overexert your puppies. Just like human babies, puppies need plenty of rest in order to grow and develop properly.
Puppies should not be expected to run and play for long periods of time. They will become tired and cranky, and their health could be at risk. It is important to slowly introduce puppies to exercise so that they can build up their stamina and stay healthy.
4. Not Socializing Your Dog
Not socializing your dog is a big mistake. Dogs need to interact with other dogs and people in order to be well-adjusted.
If you do not provide your dog with opportunities to socialize, he may become fearful or aggressive. Make sure to take your dog for walks in different neighborhoods, to the dog park, and to doggy day care or puppy class so that he can meet new friends.
5. Reacting Negatively
Reacting negatively when your dog makes a mistake is another common error. Dogs can sense your emotion, and if you get angry or frustrated when they make a mistake, they will only become more anxious and less likely to listen to you.
It is important to remain calm and positive when training your dog. If you make a mistake, simply correct it and move on. Yelling or hitting your dog will only make the problem worse.
Other Considerations
Timing is important when giving commands to your dog. He needs to be able to understand what you want him to do, and this can be difficult if you are not clear in your commands.
Consider your dog’s breed when training. Some breeds are more difficult to train than others, and this should be taken into account. For example, Australian Shepherd dog owners should be aware that their dogs were bred to herd sheep, so they may have a strong instinct to chase anything that moves, which can make training more difficult.
Dogs may also become too dependent on treats. If you find that your dog is only responding to commands when he knows he will get a treat, try phasing out the treats and rewarding him with praise instead.
Conclusion for the 5 Most Common Dog Training Mistakes
Training your dog can be a frustrating process, but it is important to remember that dogs are not humans and they do not think as we do. They need our help to learn what is expected of them.
By using these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and set your dog up for success.
