Dog training courses can be important if you are serious about training dogs as well as if you’re working towards training other people’s dogs. There is no substitute for experience but it does provide credentials that you have had education into the canine from a professional standpoint.

Not all dog training courses are created equal however. There are several forms of dog training courses available.
•    Video dog training courses
•    In person dog training courses
•    Specialty dog training courses
•    Online dog training courses
All of these can provide a certificate of completion but in order to really benefit it pays to select dog training courses that really are more than just a piece of paper. Knowing on paper or reading books is different from knowing having trained 452 dogs over a three year period!

Some dog training courses are designed to be owner-dog courses. An example of this is Labrador University at Wetland Retrievers which has dog training courses designed to build a working relationship between owner and hunting dog. This is a get in the water kind of course that includes not only obedience but starting on retrieves.

Another example is the professional dog training courses through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, which has a certification of 300 hours of training. Of course if this training was with unkind handlers it is up to the individual to find someone else to work with to complete the “work experience.”

Still other dog training classes are for those with professional views of another kind, for example security dogs, detection dogs, search and rescue and K-9 dogs. These can teach a dog to find substances from explosives to accelerants to termites and cadavers. Generally speaking this is not the type of dog training courses that neither are open to the public nor are such dogs needed outside of experienced law enforcement and professional handler situations.

The type of dog training courses may vary but should be more than just paperwork and book reading. They should offer hands on training as this is the only way to make a working bond with your dog.

For many active dogs training courses are the answer for “hyper” dogs that need more to do than hanging around the house.

When shopping for dog training courses consider several factors:
•    Is this a means to build a bond with one dog or are you interested in going further?
•    Are you looking for a particular activity?
•    Is your dog already trained for anything?
•    Is your dog suitable for the type of training you’re considering?
•    Does the dog training courses offer a range of information needed?

There are many versions of dog training courses that come up with a basic internet search. There are accredited courses and there are questionable courses so it is important to research and find the ones that benefit you and your dog the most. Dog training courses are an excellent idea but make sure you’re improving your dog, not creating more problems with dog training courses that don’t work for *that dog!*

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Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Dog Training Courses Are Not All Created Equally

Technorati Tags: Aggressive Dog, Dog Biting, Dog Chewing, dog obedience, Dog Obedience Training, Dog Potty, dog trainer, Dog Training, Dog Training Books, dog training classes, Dog Training Collar, dog training equipment, dog training schools, dog training tips, Dog Training Videos, Housebreaking, obedience classes, obedience training, train my dog

Congratulations!  You just brought home your new puppy.

 

I can’t tell you how much pleasure it is to add a puppy to the family.  If you have had dogs in the family before you know what I’m talking about.  If you haven’t, get ready for one of the greatest experiences of your life. 

 

You will sit there watching some of the silly and awkward things that he will do.  You will see him learning to go up and down steps and then falling with a quizzical look on his face wondering what just happened.  You will have a warm cuddly bundle of fur laying in your lap feeling as safe and content as anything you can imagine.  Am I prejudiced?  Absolutely!

 

But, let’s get down to reality. 

 

A new puppy is a lot of work, however, if you start out doing it correctly, you will be rewarded a thousandfold and tremendously reduce the frustrating part of raising your new addition to the family.  He is going to do just about everything that you don’t want him to do, so be prepared and you can’t get angry at him.  He just doesn’t know the rules of the house, and that’s where you come in.

 

Make your preparations.

 

Before you actually bring your puppy home, do your homework and puppy proof the house.  Set aside an area that will act as a mini home and play pen for him.  As you can see in this picture, we have a gated area that contains a crate large enough for him to grow into (get a

                                            

crate that he will be able to stand up in when he is grown).  Put an old bath towel, or something similar, in the crate so that he is not laying on a cold hard surface.  The reason for the “old towel” is because he will probably have accidents and you won’t have to panic that he has ruined your new bath towel.

 

In an opposite corner of the pen lay enough newspapers on the floor so that they will absorb urine when he does have an accident.  Give him a bowl, with a little water and next to his crate place an inexpensive and easily washable doggy bed.  The reason I say inexpensive and washable, is because he will have accidents here too, and may possibly chew it up.

 

Get enough different types of toys to keep him occupied.  You will be experimenting here until you find out what the most durable type of toys are for him.  He may destroy some plushy toys, so you may need to use something stronger. 

 

Definitely get some chew toys.  Preferably, something like Nylabones as opposed to rawhides (rawhides should be used under supervision in case a piece gets caught in his throat).  Kong type toys, that can be stuffed with treats, are also a must.  These will help keep him occupied so that he doesn’t get too bored and start chewing up his bed, or wanting to jump out of his pen.

 

Leave the “Crate Door” open.

 

The crate in the pen or confined area is going to act as your puppy’s den.  That will be his home within the home and is where he will sleep and go in and out of at will.  But, he doesn’t know that yet.  You don’t want to create the illusion that the crate is like a jail and that’s where he goes for punishment.  Leave the crate door open whether he is in or out of it.  You could also put a towel or cover over the top creating the illusion of privacy.  He must consider that as his own private property. 

 

For him to learn that, anytime you are going to give him a toy, a treat, or a stuffed toy put it in the crate and let him go in to get it.  Initially, it’s not a bad idea to put a treat, or kibble in the crate and close the door, with him outside, of course.  He will try to get into the crate to get at the food.  What you are creating is a desire for him to “want” to go in so that you are not, in essence, forcing him to go in.  

 

Take him out every hour.

 

Your little puppy, is an experienced “Pee & Poop Factory.”  He will pee & poop all over the place.  Don’t get angry, it’s only natural, he can’t help it and so far, nobody taught him the rules of the house.

 

The best thing that you can do, if you work, is to take at least days off and devote those days to your puppy.  Take him out every hour to hour and a half.  If you do this now,  believe me, you will, shorten the time for housebreaking, save yourself a lot of anguish about his peeing and pooping all over the house, as well as saving your carpets and furniture from pee stains.

 

Using the above schedule, put his leash on and walk him outside.  Go to a specific area and stand there while he sniffs around and does his business.  Give him about three to five minutes and don’t take him for a walk beyond that particular area unless he eliminates.  When he does, make a big deal out of it, “Gooood Boooy” or Gooood Giiirl”, pet him, play with him, etc., then take him for a walk.  If he doesn’t do anything, you don’t do anything.  Take him right back in.

 

By following this schedule for a few days, you will teach him that outside is where you go to pee and poop.   You will find that gradually, he won’t do anything every hour and at that point you can extend the length of time between potty trips.  This doesn’t mean that he won’t have accidents.  Just like a human child, he has to learn how to control his bladder and that takes time.

 

Hopefully, by the time you go back to work, he will be better able to control himself, but more than likely, he will have accidents.  It is a good idea to have someone come in to take him out, in order to maintain some sort of schedule.

 

Continued in Part 2.

Alex Armen
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-do-i-do-with-this-puppy-700206.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

What Do I Do With This Puppy?

Dog leash training can be a challenge, especially if you have a dog that is dominant and determined. Dogs with these characteristics seem to disregard any form of restraint and will pull incessantly. This can be dangerous for the owner who can get pulled to the ground, especially with larger dogs, or suffer shoulder injury from the constant strain.

Dogs tend to focus only on where they are going and what they’ll find when they get there. They disregard anything else. They don’t care what’s behind them, namely, their owners trying to hold them back.

People have tried choke chains and other devices that are supposed to deter the dog from pulling, but they can harm your dog’s throat and neck and in some cases, cause permanent injury.

Dog leash training does not have to be painful. Here are two methods you can try that have worked successfully for other dog owners.

Long Leash - Short Leash

In this method, you will have two leashes: a regular length and a 20-30 foot one. You can purchase nylon cord for the longer leash as this is extremely strong and durable. Carry some small treats that you can use to reward your dog every time he performs correctly.

First, put your dog on the regular leash to keep him close to you while you make your area desirable by dropping the occasional treat on the ground or hand-feed your dog a few pieces. When your dog has learned to associate being near you with those tasty morsels, it’s time to switch to the long cord.

Be sure you are in a safe area for this in case your dog gets away from you. You will not be holding the cord. Drop it on the ground as you and your dog walk. As soon as your dog begins to get ahead of you, command him to “wait” and if he keeps going, step on the leash.

Call your dog to you and reward him with a treat when he obeys. If it appears that your dog will not come to you, add some incentive by walking away from your dog while calling his name. Repeat this exercise every time your dog pulls ahead of you, always changing direction. This forces your dog to pay attention since dogs usually do not like to be separated from their pack.

It will take awhile for your dog to learn to walk beside you and not pull on the leash. Just be persistent and consistent in your methods and eventually he will break the habit of pulling ahead.

When the lesson has been learned, switch back to the regular leash which you should be able to hold loosely, since your dog no longer sees it as a way to force you to follow him. He will learn that you are the pack leader, not him.

The Unpredictable

The key is to get your dog to focus on you, not on what’s ahead. The best way to do that is to be unpredictable during dog leash training.

Keep a few treats in your pocket and the leash quite loose as you begin your walk. As soon as your dog pulls ahead, turn in a different direction. When your dog catches up, reward him with one of the treats. Each time he pulls, repeat the direction change only do not just turn back the way you came. Smart dogs will soon catch on to this trick and it will become ineffective.

Repeat as often and as long as necessary until your dog passes his dog leash training.

Francis N. Tressler
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-leash-training-the-easy-and-gentle-way-of-dog-leash-training-695361.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Dog Leash Training the Easy and Gentle Way of Dog Leash Training

Are you frustrated because your dog keeps exhibiting bad behavior that is embarrassing to you? Do you wonder why he always runs away when you go for a walk or jumps on people who come over to visit? An out of control dog is neither fun nor a good companion and the only way to tame the wild beast is with dog obedience training.

In fact with the proper training your four legged out of control friend may well turn into the best companion you’ve ever had, but you have to train him first. Training your dog should be a fun and rewarding if you go into it with the right attitude and show some patience. It may take some work to reverse the bad habits he has learned.

The most basic training will teach your dog to sit, stay, and come. These three commands make up the base of any obedience training class and are beneficial in furthering your dog’s ability to be obedient. Once the training starts to sink in you will be much more willing to take your dog out in public because you know that you will be able to control him much more easily.

You have two choices when it comes to training your dog; you can do it yourself or you can join a dog obedience class. A class is a good idea if you are having difficulty training at home or if you just don’t know where to start. Classes are taught by professional dog trainers who know all the tricks to get your dog to listen to what you want him to do. A class also gives your dog a chance to socialize with other dogs which is an important part of training. If he can follow commands with a bunch of other dogs around he will be much easier to control in public settings.

One of the most important parts of training, whether at home or in a class, is the interaction between owner and dog. All dogs live to please their owner and you can use that to reinforce the lessons. By using treats, praise, and physical attention you can have greater gains then if you are constantly reprimanding and shouting at your dog when he doesn’t follow your commands.

If you choose to train your dog at home you should try to keep any distractions to a minimum when first starting. Your back yard or an open field is a good choice. This will keep his attention focused on you as you work on the basics. As he progresses you can start taking him to areas that have a little more activity and other dogs around because most of the time you will need him to follow commands while there are distractions around.

Most bad behavior dog obedience training works by getting your dog to obey your commands in spite of the distractions going on around him. Most bad behavior is simply your dog looking for attention. When you train him you give him an outlet to please you which gives him the attention he desires.

Andrew Bicknell
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/bad-behavior-dog-obedience-training-714306.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Bad Behavior Dog Obedience Training

The first thing you must have when attempting to house train your dog is “patience.” Keep in mind that when we were young, we too had to learn where and when we could go. Bad news is, we don’t have doggie diapers, but the good news is we don’t have to get our dogs on a toilet seat! Also, dogs are instinctively clean animals, they would prefer to not to mess themselves or their usual eating and sleeping areas. Depending on the age of your dog, they naturally develop tendencies to go on certain surfaces like grass or dirt, use this as a stepping stone to a quicker and more successful training cycle.

Establish the Living Area with Your Dog

Help your dog establish their living area in a small confined space, maybe a bathroom, part of the kitchen or garage. Please make sure that if you plan to have your dog in a crate, make it an open environment. Some people think that putting the dog in a crate and shutting the door helps them get used to their surroundings, but it doesn’t. Using a crate is OK if you let your dog live comfortably by letting them have some freedom to go in and out as they please, unless you have to leave the house for a short period of time. Keeping them locked up for long periods of time is when you should ask yourself if you are really ready to own a dog.

Take the time to work with your dog to establish their living area. Spend time playing with them in their “room” as well as let them eat and sleep here. Do your best to make their room comfortable, maybe give them a comfortable dog bed, blanket and give them a bowl of water in, or close to their space. It’s possible they might still wet their space in the beginning but once they realize that their room is designated for their comfort they will do their best to avoid going in their space as long as they have regular opportunities to go to the toilet on the paper or outside.

When your dog has had the time to get comfortable with their room, you’ll be able to move it around and they will follow it to wherever you decide to place it. It’s important to find a place that makes them part of the family surroundings but is equally convenient for you so you don’t feel they’re “in the way” a dog will become part of the family in no time, trust me!

Once your dog gets to the point of sleeping in their bed feel free to confine them there by leashing them or shutting the crate door to keep them in their room, just be aware of them and ensure you can keep an eye on them. Keeping your dog on a leash unattended is not recommended anytime. Also, if you feel that you want to keep an eye on them when there awake, just keep their leash attached to your belt during your daily routine to help you identify any tendencies and help monitor their behavior.

Establish the Toilet Area with Your Dog

Help your dog establish their toilet area, at first it will probably be inside the house on some news paper, just make sure they that they have access to this area when they need it. If they do not have access to this area they will go in other places and establish their own areas, the problem being this might not be ideal for you and your family. Until they are comfortable going in the designated area, it is important that you accompany your dog every time.

The best way to gauge when your dog has to go to the toilet is to keep them on a regular eating schedule. You will start to see that when they eat at a certain time they will need to go to they toilet after an approximate amount of time, this will give you a better understanding of when they have to go. A regular eating schedule means a regular toilet schedule this will help you to plan out your day without having messy accidents everywhere. If your dog is confined too long and has to go, they will potentially go in there space and it will get increasingly more difficult to house train them.

If you have a new puppy they have a harder time controlling their bladder so you might have to take them a little more frequently, but healthy adult dogs should be able to control their bladder and bowels for about eight hours. Also, keep in mind that when new puppies get excited they might make little mistakes, make sure you don’t scold them in this instance, just let them know they did it and show them the regular toilet area. Every time they go in the right place make sure you let them know they did good, this will reinforce what you’re training.

As you are training your dog in the house you should be working with them outside as this is where your dog will end up going. You have to read little signs to know when they’re ready to go and if convenient take them outside right away. Don’t expect a puppy to bark when they need to go, they’re not there yet! You will know something’s up when your dog starts to get restless or starts sniffing around, they’re actually looking for a spot to go. Just pick them up and take them outside, they’ll do the rest, you can urge them a bit with the command that you want them to go. Again, once they go it’s important to acknowledge them in a positive way so they know that this is where they must go. When they get comfortable with this they will start to ask to go out.

Some Tips

* If you follow the instructions as outlined above, your dog will be house trained in a short period of time. One way to speed up the process is to praise and reward your dog each and every time they go successfully in their toilet area. It is just as important not to scold your dog for accidents and mistakes. Reprimanding your dog usually confuses the dog and slows down the house training process.

* If you find that your dog continues to go in their allotted space, make note of how long they were there. You might find they were in there too long or they’re space is a bit too big for them, giving them the room to go in the corner of they’re space. You can remedy this by not leaving them there too long, establish a smaller sleep area and take them to the toilet more often.

* If you find that your dog continues to go in their bed, this might be due to being confined there too long and they couldn’t help themselves, or they are still trying to understand that this is their sleep and comfort space. Again, try not to leave your dog in their space too long and try to take them to the toilet more often.

* If you find the bed wetting continuing longer than you feel is right, you might want to look at their water intake. A lot of dogs will drink water out of boredom or habit, ensure you’re limiting their intake and take them out more often if possible. Also, try and keep your dog active to ensure good health and limited boredom, get them into good habits. Also, be aware that continued messing can be due to unknown medical issues like urinary tract problems for instance, try the tips above first, it’s usually something simple that you might be missing.

* If your dog doesn’t feel comfortable in their space and/or surroundings you might notice signs of them barking, chewing, some anxiety or whining a lot. If you feel this is happening go back over your method and ensure you’re making them as comfortable and welcomed as a family member.

Remember, love, due diligence and patience on your part will make it a smooth and “clean” transition.

Thomas Cash
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/tips-for-house-training-your-dog-98559.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Tips For House Training Your Dog

Dog owners must put attention to dogs behavior problem and understand why dogs behave differently. Dogs behavior problem includes growling, non stop or unnecessary barking, snarling and other threatening behavior like physical attack to people or other dogs. Does your dog display these behavior problems? You have to recognize your dog’s behavior problem before it became a serious behavior and aggression problem.

Do you feel you want to give up on your dog and you feel it’s hopeless to solve your dog’s behavior problem? Understanding dogs behavior and how to handle the situation correctly will solve dogs behavior problem. Dogs behavior problem and aggression maybe a result of fear. Aggression is an automatic defense of dogs when they are afraid either from human or another animal’s presence. Age and maturity has something to do with dogs behavior problem too, there are dogs that are friendly as puppies but start to display aggressive behaviors on the 2nd or 3rd year. Pain and injury may also lead to dogs behavior problem. These things and a lot of factors leading to dogs behavior problem must be recognized by dog owners.

Dogs behavior problem is a serious problem that requires immediate action before it could get worst. Seeking professional help is important to evaluate your dog’s medical and behavior condition. You can also keep records of the occurrences of your dog’s behavior problem. Record how it happened and the possible triggers of the bad behavior.

Building an effective communication with your dog is the first step to solve the behavior problem of your dog. There are many ways to communicate with your dog when your dog is misbehaving. Obedience training is one way to communicate with your dog. It will give you techniques on how to make your dog listen to you and behave properly.

A well behaved dog is a pleasure to be with. Transform your dog’s behavior problem immediately. Dog obedience training will reveal proven strategies how to make your dog understand what you are communicating to him. Transform you dog’s behavior problem and get immediate results visit Dogs’ Corner

To know more about dogs and obedience training visit All About Pets

Gerry Restrivera
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/the-best-way-to-stop-dogs-behavior-problem-745423.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

The Best Way to Stop Dogs Behavior Problem

Congratulations!  You just brought home your new puppy.

 

I can’t tell you how much pleasure it is to add a puppy to the family.  If you have had dogs in the family before you know what I’m talking about.  If you haven’t, get ready for one of the greatest experiences of your life. 

 

You will sit there watching some of the silly and awkward things that he will do.  You will see him learning to go up and down steps and then falling with a quizzical look on his face wondering what just happened.  You will have a warm cuddly bundle of fur laying in your lap feeling as safe and content as anything you can imagine.  Am I prejudiced?  Absolutely!

 

But, let’s get down to reality. 

 

A new puppy is a lot of work, however, if you start out doing it correctly, you will be rewarded a thousandfold and tremendously reduce the frustrating part of raising your new addition to the family.  He is going to do just about everything that you don’t want him to do, so be prepared and you can’t get angry at him.  He just doesn’t know the rules of the house, and that’s where you come in.

 

Make your preparations.

 

Before you actually bring your puppy home, do your homework and puppy proof the house.  Set aside an area that will act as a mini home and play pen for him.  As you can see in this picture, we have a gated area that contains a crate large enough for him to grow into (get a

                                            

crate that he will be able to stand up in when he is grown).  Put an old bath towel, or something similar, in the crate so that he is not laying on a cold hard surface.  The reason for the “old towel” is because he will probably have accidents and you won’t have to panic that he has ruined your new bath towel.

 

In an opposite corner of the pen lay enough newspapers on the floor so that they will absorb urine when he does have an accident.  Give him a bowl, with a little water and next to his crate place an inexpensive and easily washable doggy bed.  The reason I say inexpensive and washable, is because he will have accidents here too, and may possibly chew it up.

 

Get enough different types of toys to keep him occupied.  You will be experimenting here until you find out what the most durable type of toys are for him.  He may destroy some plushy toys, so you may need to use something stronger. 

 

Definitely get some chew toys.  Preferably, something like Nylabones as opposed to rawhides (rawhides should be used under supervision in case a piece gets caught in his throat).  Kong type toys, that can be stuffed with treats, are also a must.  These will help keep him occupied so that he doesn’t get too bored and start chewing up his bed, or wanting to jump out of his pen.

 

Leave the “Crate Door” open.

 

The crate in the pen or confined area is going to act as your puppy’s den.  That will be his home within the home and is where he will sleep and go in and out of at will.  But, he doesn’t know that yet.  You don’t want to create the illusion that the crate is like a jail and that’s where he goes for punishment.  Leave the crate door open whether he is in or out of it.  You could also put a towel or cover over the top creating the illusion of privacy.  He must consider that as his own private property. 

 

For him to learn that, anytime you are going to give him a toy, a treat, or a stuffed toy put it in the crate and let him go in to get it.  Initially, it’s not a bad idea to put a treat, or kibble in the crate and close the door, with him outside, of course.  He will try to get into the crate to get at the food.  What you are creating is a desire for him to “want” to go in so that you are not, in essence, forcing him to go in.  

 

Take him out every hour.

 

Your little puppy, is an experienced “Pee & Poop Factory.”  He will pee & poop all over the place.  Don’t get angry, it’s only natural, he can’t help it and so far, nobody taught him the rules of the house.

 

The best thing that you can do, if you work, is to take at least days off and devote those days to your puppy.  Take him out every hour to hour and a half.  If you do this now,  believe me, you will, shorten the time for housebreaking, save yourself a lot of anguish about his peeing and pooping all over the house, as well as saving your carpets and furniture from pee stains.

 

Using the above schedule, put his leash on and walk him outside.  Go to a specific area and stand there while he sniffs around and does his business.  Give him about three to five minutes and don’t take him for a walk beyond that particular area unless he eliminates.  When he does, make a big deal out of it, “Gooood Boooy” or Gooood Giiirl”, pet him, play with him, etc., then take him for a walk.  If he doesn’t do anything, you don’t do anything.  Take him right back in.

 

By following this schedule for a few days, you will teach him that outside is where you go to pee and poop.   You will find that gradually, he won’t do anything every hour and at that point you can extend the length of time between potty trips.  This doesn’t mean that he won’t have accidents.  Just like a human child, he has to learn how to control his bladder and that takes time.

 

Hopefully, by the time you go back to work, he will be better able to control himself, but more than likely, he will have accidents.  It is a good idea to have someone come in to take him out, in order to maintain some sort of schedule.

 

Continued in Part 2.

Alex Armen
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-do-i-do-with-this-puppy-700206.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

What Do I Do With This Puppy?

Having the right dog training tools will make a huge difference in your success as a dog owner. Choose the wrong tools, and you can end up with more dog problems. The wrong equipment or tools used the wrong way can make your dog uncomfortable and distressed, which is not conducive to training.

There are some things to consider first.

1. The breed of dog (size, strength, physical peculiarities)

2. Your dog’s level of training

3. The purpose (walking, playing, unsupervised restraint)

Most likely, you will need more than one leash and collar. If in doubt, ask your dog supply provider which is best for your needs. For specialized collars as those needed for agility training, seek the advice of a dog training professional to be sure you get the right information.

Flat Collar

These come in varying styles and are made from leather, nylon or other fabric. A proper fit allows you to slide two fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar. This particular style does not give you much control and can be slipped off easily by dogs that are determined to be free. It is the best choice for young puppies because they are not yet at the stage when strong correction or restraint is necessary.

Choke Chain

The choke chain is usually made from links of chain with a large ring on each end. The chain is slipped through one of the rings to form a loop that is then slid on over the dog’s neck. When the chain is pulled, it tightens on the dog’s throat encouraging it to stop pulling. It’s effectiveness lies in how the handler applies any correction. However, as a training tool, it is one of the worst choices.

Some dogs learn to ignore the choking and pull anyway. If the chain is allowed to hang loosely, it can fall over the dog’s head when he sniffs the ground.

It is essential that the choke chain be put on and used correctly, otherwise injuries to the dog’s throat and neck can occur. If it is put on backwards, the chain will not tighten and release properly as it is tightened.

The Halter

The halter is one of the better dog training tools because there is little if any chance of harming your dog. This style fits over the dog’s muzzle like a horse halter, giving you control over your dog’s head. It is great for redirecting your dog’s attention, especially if your dog tends to become focused on what he wants to do rather than on what you want him to do.

There are other collars available that are designed for agility training and other types of activities. You want to make sure you have the right one so there is no risk of your dog’s collar getting caught and causing injury.

As with any dog training tools, a collar alone will not provide training. You must put your dog through the proper lessons and use the collar as a tool, otherwise you will have a dog that walks fine with the collar, but has little to no obedience without it.

Francis N. Tressler
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-training-tools-how-to-choose-the-right-dog-training-tools-697285.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Dog Training Tools How to Choose the Right Dog Training Tools

There is nothing worse then a dog that jumps on anyone who walks in the front door, barks all day long, doesn’t listen to your commands, or relieves himself in your house. These are just a few examples of the sorts of bad dog behavior that drives owners crazy. If you are having these types of behavioral problems with you dog then it might be time to try some basic obedience training.

Dogs are very social creatures and they love attention, even if it’s for doing the wrong thing. Dog obedience training is the best way to re-program the way your dog goes about seeking attention because it them a positive outlet to please you. It also teaches them the difference between good and bad behavior because once they understand what you want from them they will always work to earn your praise.

There are two ways to approach training your dog to correct bad behavior; you can do it your self or you can sign up for a dog training class. If you are having a particularly hard time with your dog’s behavior then a class run by a professional trainer may be your best bet. Not only do you get their years of experience working with just about every kind of behavioral problem you also get a chance to find out exactly how to best deal with your dog’s problems. Dog obedience classes also give you the opportunity to socialize your dog with other dogs, which is a big part of solving many of his behavior issues.

If you don’t wish to train your dog in a class setting then you can still use the services of a professional trainer. Many trainers will provide private lessons, either at their place of business or at your home. Again you will get their experience working with all sorts of dogs but it will be more cost prohibitive.

If you would rather train your misbehaving dog yourself there are plenty of resources available to help you. Your local pet or book store will have plenty of books on the subject, some even specific to your particular breed. This can be important because not all breeds respond as well to the same training methods. Getting a better understanding of the intelligence level, mood, and temperament of your dog can give you insight into why he might be misbehaving.

There are also good training methods available on the internet. Most of these are downloadable ebooks written by professional dog trainers. They cover a wide variety of bad behavior problems and give you the insight of a pro without having to pay to see one in person. One of the nice things about going this route is the ability to email the trainers with questions and problems you may be having. This personal touch makes the low cost of these products a good way to go.

Bad dog behavior in the majority of cases is simply a case of a lack of proper obedience training. No matter which training option you choose your chances of turning your misbehaving dog into a model doggy citizen are greatly increased if you take the time to train him properly.

Andrew Bicknell
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/obedience-training-resolves-bad-dog-behavior-in-most-cases-711188.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

Obedience Training Resolves Bad Dog Behavior in Most Cases

It can be one of the most frustrating things for dog owners: A dog that will just not stop barking. You just want peace and quiet, but the dog on the other hand couldn’t care less, right? Well - it’s not like the dog is barking on purpose just to upset you. You’ve got to start becoming more aware of the “dog’s barking trends”.

Try to be more attentive. What’s the cause of it? Is it something that’s really obvious which is setting him off or is it something more subtle? A lot of times a dog will bark when he sees someone they are not familiar with. Dogs, being a natural territorial animal, will bark at that person, as to say “get off my property”.

The real key to get your dog to stop barking is to simply be prepared. Know what’s the cause of it and act upon it before he starts barking. For instance, if the dog barks at the mailman, be prepared for it. You should have some idea of when your mailman delivers the mail everyday. Around that time, put a leash on your dog. When you start to see the mail car give a little tug on the leash, before he even gets a chance to bark. It’s a nice jolt to the system.

Even better, if you are outside, is to have a little water pistol handy. If you know what triggers your dogs bark, squirt him with water before he gets a chance to bark. He’ll soon figure out there are consequences for the barking. Also this doesn’t mean anything if you don’t reward him for when he doesn’t bark. They need both positive and negative reinforcement.

Tom Womack
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-on-earth-do-you-get-a-dog-to-stop-barking-726405.html

Post from: Dog Training Savvy

How on Earth Do You Get a Dog to Stop Barking?