Dog Training Advice: Why Not "No"?

You've probably discovered that dog training advice has many variables. It depends on the person giving the advice, their dog training experience, and what they have determined from their own results and perspectives.

This is why you might wonder who you can trust.

For instance, some trainers say it is fine to use the term "No" while others advise against it. How can such a simple word create so much controversy?

A lot of people tend to blurt out, "No!" when they see that their dog might be in danger or is doing something highly objectionable, like chewing on your new leather jacket. It's only natural.

Consider, though, how it sounds. You are most likely a little agitated when you see the threat. In some cases, you might be outright angry. How you feel at the time will be reflected in the tone of your voice. This can cause you to sound angry when you tell your dog "no".

Besides, an angry tone is alarming to a dog, which is probably what you had in mind during that moment. If a dog senses anger, especially during training, he will respond with fear or learn to ignore it. Your dog expects you to be in control, otherwise you cannot be a very good leader. He has to trust you and respect you.

An angry outburst destroys that trust and respect. Before long, your dog will learn to pay less attention to you, especially when you want his cooperation. Scolding him with phrases like, "Bad dog!" will only instill fear.

What are better options?

Sounds, rather than words, can be more effective because you are not likely to attach such emotion to those. One trainer suggests using the sound, "Anh" which can be difficult to do angrily.

Another sound is "tssst" or a sharp "Ah!" Both are proven to work for some people. Find a sound that suits you best and use it whenever your dog is misbehaving. The best use is when you cannot discipline your dog physically, such as when he is off-leash or far away. Although, you can use them at these times if you wish.

These sounds simply mean, "Stop what you are doing." They do not give any specific instructions beyond that. He will soon learn that you are not rejecting him, but what he was doing. In time, he will make the connection between actions you appreciate and of those which you disapprove.

Emphasize positive behavior by praising your dog when he obeys.

After making the sound, be sure to reward him with a "good dog" or walk up and pat him on the head if he's in reasonable distance and say, "Good boy".

If he is close enough, use the sound and then physically correct him. This does not mean hitting him. It simply means to show him the right behavior. This action will depend on whatever he did wrong.

With this kind of treatment, it won't take him long to learn right from wrong, and perhaps more importantly, to understand the correct behavior in response to your commands.

Focus on making all of your verbalizing positive, either to instruct him to do a particular thing or to praise him for doing it correctly.

Perhaps the best dog training advice is that which brings you and your dog into a closer bond of mutual respect.

Good dog training advice should be helpful and positive. There is no room in dog training for negativity, and "no" is a negative word in many respects. Here are some trustworthy and excellent dog trainers who can show you exactly how to get positive results fast.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sylvia_Dickens