Dog-owners, whether old or new, make some common training mistakes that have long-term consequences. What are the reasons that tried and tested training techniques become ineffective and unsuccessful for many dog owners? They are skipping on some common training requirements that are necessary conditions to shape a dog’s personality perfectly:
#1 Consistency
Dog-owners use positive or negative reinforcement to train their puppies and dogs. In spite of the strict directions, they forget to be consistent in praising or punishing the dog. As a result, the dog is unable to understand the cue of why he is getting praised or punished. Moreover, praise or punishment should be done when the dog is involved in the act. Most dog owners are not consistent with the timings, which has long-term consequences. Dogs may stop doing a desired behavior.
#2 Provide Alternatives
Dogs should not be stopped or punished when engaged in an action that has become a habit such as excessive chewing, barking, jumping up, etc. To break old habits, love works more effectively than anger. It may take time and patience to change them, but you have to be consistent. What you have to do is to distract the pooch from a less-desired action to a desired one. When the pooch successfully follows your directions, give him a treat, praise or a rub on the back. Another way to tackle the behavioral problem is to find the reason behind the habit. If it’s due to boredom, anxiety, or stress, you may tackle it accordingly. Appreciate
#3 Shock Collars
Shock collars are used for training dogs in specific situations to prevent the pooch from harming himself. It is used for leash training and boundary training. Unfortunately, many dog trainers treat it like just another training tool. The consequences are behavioral problems in dogs for life. They will develop wither of the fight or flight response whenever you will prepare him for training. Shock collars are effective dog training tools, but only experts can handle them best. Here’s an informative guide on shock collars.
The use of shock collars is not supported or suggested by BarkAndSqueak.com for pet owners. The use of such devices can be cruel and unusual if used incorrectly. As the guest post mentions, they should only be used to keep the dog from harming himself and by professional trainers.
#4 Calm Behavior
Another common mistake done by dog-owners is to promote the excited reactions of the dog. Whenever they return home, they enjoy their dog jumping up in excitement. It is harmless in case of small dogs or puppies, but big adult dogs can cause you harm in their excitement. It’s best to train the dog from the start to stay calm. You can praise him every now and then for a calm and composed behavior. Some dogs get into the habit of excitedly barking around the owner for attention. It becomes irritating when the guests are around. Teach the pooch to stay calm to get your attention and love.
#5 Socialize Gradually
Dog owners have to help the dogs to socialize gradually rather than leave out the dog in the middle of the crowd. Allow the dog to socialize with a single dog at first and, then, appreciate often. Gradually, take the dog for walks and, then, to dog parks for socialization. Keep appreciating the dog throughout the socialization process.