Who would not like to have a well-behaved, well-hearing dog and that as immediately as possible and without much effort? In reality, however, dog training is a lifelong task that also varies depending on the dog’s age, breed and environment.
Not everyone has the opportunity to train their dog from puppyhood. And not every dog experiences all that is necessary to become a well-balanced dog during the all-important socialization phase. In the same way, every dog owner does not have the opportunity to attend a dog school on a regular basis. That’s why you’ll find an overview of all our articles and guides on the subject of dog training here.
Why actually dog training?
Having a well-trained dog makes living together much easier. Whether it’s staying alone, walking loosely on a leash, coming back safely, or leaving food lying around, these are all just a few behaviors your dog should learn. In addition, there are the many signals such as sit, down, heel or stay. The better your dog knows how to behave, the fewer problems there will be.
You can’t take a dog that barks all the time because it wants attention into a restaurant. You can’t let a dog that hunts run free. And if your dog jumps on strangers, they are guaranteed not to find it funny either. So you have to teach your four-legged friend which behaviors are desirable and which are not.
Fortunately, dog training is not a closed book. It is important to understand that you speak a different language than your dog. Therefore, it is your task to find a common communication with him so that you can communicate.
So dog training means nothing more than helping your four-legged friend to find his way in the human world in order to avoid conflicts with people or animals.
Prevent problems from arising in the first place
What is a problem with dogs anyway? If you live out of the way in the country, no one may mind if your dog barks in the yard. If, on the other hand, you live in a densely built-up settlement, the whole thing looks quite different.
So whether your dog’s behavior is a problem depends on the context and whether it is stressing you or those around you. What was not a problem today may become one as life circumstances change. By then, at the latest, you’ll probably be looking for training opportunities and solutions.
Of course, it is best to prevent behavior problems from occurring in the first place. You can achieve this by practicing how to behave properly with your dog from day one of living together.
However, some behavior also arises from external influences. For example, a biting episode can cause your dog to develop a fear of conspecifics.
So there are problems that you can influence or avoid through education and there are those that arise through external circumstances.
What are the options for dog training?
In dog training there are many different methods, some of which are based on outdated knowledge or false assumptions. It therefore makes sense to take a closer look at this topic.
Training methods that inflict pain, scare or intimidate your dog will lead to exactly what you want to avoid: problems! Any form of violence, and that includes intimidation, can deeply damage your dog’s trust in you.
Dog training based on positive reinforcement does without such means.
Here, the focus is on encouraging desirable behavior and preventing undesirable behavior. All without scaring your dog or causing him pain. In order to reward your dog in a varied way – not only with food – it is necessary that you intensively deal with his needs. And of course, this form of training also involves encouraging and challenging your four-legged friend.
The result is a relationship with your dog based on trust and security.
All articles around the dog education with the domestic animal magazine
In writing and revising our articles about dog training we are supported by Nima Ashoff, who has years of experience as a dog trainer.
Puppy training
Puppy training – the way to the dream dog
Puppy training – with fun even alone at home
How do I get my puppy housebroken?
Basic education for puppies – ideal occupation for home
Dog training
This is how dragline training works
Why you need an attention signal
Difference pause and resolution signal
Why sit and stay are useful signals in dog training
Why recall is such a big issue
Muzzle training – How to get your dog used to a muzzle
How to get your dog used to a box
Online dog training
Dog training with online dog training
Help with problems with the dog
Help! My dog pulls on the leash
My dog does not listen – why only?
My dog bites shoes! Destructiveness or boredom?
Defeat separation anxiety of dogs
Why does my dog nibble at everything?
How do I keep my dog from eating everything he finds?
Help in everyday life
How to teach your dog to put on a harness without problems
When can my dog stay alone in the car?
How to get your dog used to grooming
The right dog care – tips and tricks for dog owners
Dog matching – first 1, then 2, then 3, then 4, …
Multi-dog husbandry – what matters in everyday life
Can a dog be happy on a leash?
Dog activity
Dog toys – employment in the apartment
How to practice riding a bike with your dog
Understanding dogs
Dog language – this is how your dog communicates with you
Your dog talks to you even without sounds – the body language of the dog
Recognize and understand avoidance behavior
The escalation ladder with the dog
In many of our posts about dog training, you’ll also find references to the various options that online dog training courses offer.
Are you still missing a topic or do you need on-site support? In the network“Train instead of dominate” you will find trainers all over Germany who practice non-violent dog training according to the principle of positive reinforcement.
Do you have questions or a problem?
Or do you want to make a suggestion or comment?
Then we are happy about a comment!