BAYSIDE PET RESORT S DOG TRAINING GUIDE Tips For Training Your Dog The Right Way
DOG TRAINING TIPS FROM OUR STAFF Being dog care professionals for over five years now has taught us a thing or two about what does and does not work for training dogs! We all want our dogs to be role models for other pups, but the question of HOW is a common hurdle for dog owners. This brief guide contains answers to the most frequently asked questions. You ll find that they not only help you have the best-behaving dog in the neighborhood but also contribute to a happier pup! When should I start training with my dog? The answer to this question will vary based on your pup s age, health, and aptitude for learning. In general though, the answer is almost always IMMEDIATELY! For Puppies: Begin training as soon as your new puppy gets home, typically around 8 weeks of age. At this age, this may just include potty, leash, and crate training. When your puppy has had their last round of shots, begin taking them out in the world to familiarize them with new places and people. A well socialized puppy can eliminate many of the most common behavioral problems Attending a formal puppy class should happen as soon as your veterinarian feels your puppy s immune system is fully vaccinated against diseases. Begin with a puppy playgroup and then basic obedience For Adult Dogs: Training should begin as soon as possible, especially with newly adopted dogs Build a bond with your dog by training at home first. This includes establishing boundaries in the house, and teaching proper manners such as not jumping up on furniture or guests. Exercise patience and positivity with adult or senior dogs. They may not learn as quickly as a puppy, or may have medical or physical needs that require they learn in a different way How do I find a good dog trainer? Finding a good dog trainer should mean finding someone who is experienced (and certified) in the type of training you want to do with your dog. Are you looking for someone who has a lot of obedience experience? Or Page 1
maybe you want to try agility for the first time! Chat with other dog owners about who they would recommend, or do an internet search to find dog training clubs near you. What qualities should I look for in a dog trainer? First and foremost, a professional dog trainer should possess certain character qualities such a being upbeat, calm, fair, and mild-mannered. Dogs do not truly understand human speech, but instead respond to a person s energy and intentions. You should be sure that the trainer you ll be working with has a positive effect on your dog. Seek trainers who possess these qualities and who are certified through independent professional organizations. Certifications indicate that they are current on the best training methods, as many of these organizations require members to complete hours and hours of continuing education courses. Where can I verify a trainer s credentials and certifications? Anyone can say I m a dog trainer, but not everyone is a professional with the certifications to back up their claim. While some dog trainers are self-taught, it is generally best to seek someone who has been properly learned dog training skills through a verifiable program. Certifications vary by each trainer s specialty, so be sure that the trainer you intend to work with has experience and education in the particular discipline you d like to try out. For basic obedience and group training classes, verify credentials via: Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers Association of Professional Dog Trainers National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors American Kennel Club For specific behavior modification, such as aggression: International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants Association of Animal Behavior Professionals International Association of Canine Professionals What is the best method of training? The best method of training will vary from dog to dog and trainer to trainer. However, training methods which use positive reinforcement are generally considered the best. Scientific studies on canine cognition have given Page 2
us extensive insight into not only what dogs can learn but how to teach them new things most effectively. While aversive or negative methods were commonplace in the past, they are now generally considered outdated, unnecessary, and inefficient. Consider The 4 Pillars of Positive Training when evaluating trainers and classes for your dog. What class should we take first? This will depend on your dog s current knowledge level. In general, dog owners should start with a basic obedience class to build a good learning foundation. Training for young puppies should first focus on socialization and enrichment activities that introduce them to the new world around them. After that, they should progress onto basic obedience to learn appropriate manners and skills, such as recall. After nailing the basics, move on to more advanced training such as competitive obedience or therapy training. Once your dog has mastered obedience, give them a new challenge with trick training, or dog sports like Flyball and Rally Obedience! Page 3
What type of leash should I bring? Use force-free leads and collars that do not pinch, poke, or otherwise cause discomfort for your dog. If you require one of these tools to properly walk your dog, consult with a professional trainer on how you can improve their leash manners. A slip lead or flat buckle collar with traditional clasp leash are generally best for training. Unless otherwise told by your trainer, a standard nylon leash 4 to 6 feet in length should be used. Never use a flexi leash or metal chain leash, as these can result in injury to yourself, your dog, or another dog/owner team in the class. What should else should I bring? If your dog is food motivated, use a treat or food reward that they do not receive at home - this special food item should be for training ONLY! Cut up pieces of favorite vegetables, cheese, or hot dog work great for this. If your dog is more motivated by toys, bring an appropriately-sized toy that is free of squeakers, crunchy material, or other noise makers. Noisey toys may heighten your dog s arousal level, causing them to lose focus on the task at hand. Should we practice at home? Absolutely! Training should be a part of your everyday ritual with your dog. Even if you are just doing the basics, practicing at home builds the bond between you and your dog. Take it a step further by practicing away from home too. Your dog might be a pro at the house, but acts like they ve never attended one minute of training when at the park or beach! Practice in these places to reinforce your leadership skills in distracting environments. Bayside Pet Resort is a Sarasota and Osprey Florida luxury pet resort and spa, offering 5-Star amenities to our canine and feline guests with state-of-the-art accommodations, daily health checks, supervised doggie daycare and a wide array of grooming services. Featured in local media such as Suncoast News Network, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Venice Gondolier Sun, Suncoast Pet Magazine, and Sarasota Magazine, Bayside also provides obedience training and agility classes to help you and your dog live harmoniously. For grooming, boarding, and training information, call 941-244-4930 (Osprey, FL), or 941-351-0730 (Sarasota, FL) to schedule an appointment. Bayside groomers use natural, non-toxic products for grooming. Call for information on these products. Page 4