Dog Training Techniques: Training Your Dog

Positive Reinforcement and Repetition are Keys to Training

I have always opted to use positive reinforcement in my dog training approach. My dogs respond well to praise and understand what my tone of voice means. If I don’t approve of their behavior, they become sad and try to please me. Typically, my dog learns something after just one demonstration and retains it. I know this is unusual for many dogs, but he truly wants to please me. Starting training early with positive reinforcement yields better results.

Begin with commands like “no” and “good boy” or “good girl” or simply “good (name of dog).” Be repetitive and vary your tone to be stern when necessary and happy when they succeed for clear understanding. Once the dog comprehends this, he will seek out that happy tone more often. You might initially enhance this with small treats alongside the praise until the dog recognizes my approval without needing a treat.

After this foundation, you can introduce more words in your commands, or even full sentences. My dog now understands many complete phrases – such as “wipe your feet,” “go get ‘em,” “keep going,” “no bunny no squirrel,” “go slow,” and “go to bed.” Repetition is essential in dog training so the puppy grasps what you want him to do.

I feel fortunate that my Rascal dog picks up commands quickly; for instance, one night when he was retching, I placed his face in a towel. Since then, he searches for a towel or blanket to use when he feels unwell, so I keep one on the floor for him. He’s a “polite puker.” He learns quickly, and I always praise him to let him know he has done well, which he appreciates. He dislikes disapproval, and I never resort to smacking him; instead, I use my tone of voice. I also instruct him to wipe his feet before entering the house, and he eagerly runs in circles around the cars first.

All my dogs have thrived under positive reinforcement training and consistent repetition. Some dogs may be tougher and require more assertive training methods, like my likely puppy mill dog, but he had a good life and became a wonderful companion due to the effort I invested in his pet care.

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Dog Training Techniques: Training Your Dog

Positive Reinforcement and Repetition are Keys to Training

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