Page 330 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CARE AND TRAINING | BASIC TRAINING

TRAINING CLASSES uncomfortable. Nervous dogs and those that organization such as the American Kennel
No matter how much experience you have are aggressive toward people or other dogs Club. Before you choose a class, take the
training dogs, classes are advisable for any are not suitable for group classes. These time to visit and watch a training session
new dog—whether it be a puppy or an older, types of behavioral problems are often take place. Even if you have no experience
rescued dog. The benefits dogs receive from aggravated in a class situation and of training classes, you will quickly get
taking part in a group class are significant can become more pronounced. Quite a feel for a good class. Aim for classes
and it is also a useful way to hone your often these dogs are better starting off with relaxed dogs and happy owners.
skills. In training classes you will meet other in a one-to-one training session, with Avoid hectic and noisy environments and
like-minded people and learn about the someone who is qualified in dealing with classes. A knowledgeable and experienced
facilities your local area has to offer dog behavioral problems, before progressing into trainer will take charge in a friendly and
owners. All dogs are different and will a group class. If you have any concerns, ask effective manner.
benefit from slightly varied approaches in before enrolling your dog. All training
their training. Furthermore, having an classes teach the basic skill of getting your
experienced trainer on hand will prevent dog to walk to heel. If you can keep your WHAT TO LOOK FOR
you from making mistakes. It is also much dog by your side in a controlled environment IN A CLASS
easier to keep motivated when training as you will soon be able to walk him in public
part of a group. spaces with confidence. ■ Small classes with only a few dogs.
Training classes should be well organized ■ High trainer-to-dog ratio.
and enjoyable for all the owners and dogs WHERE TO TRAIN ■ Positive training methods utilizing
present. A happy, confident dog will move There are likely to be several classes running praise, food, and toys.
■ No choke chains.
in a relaxed manner during these classes. in your area. Try to get recommendations
■ No aggressive training.
Any sign of tension, evident in a stiffening from other dog owners or your vet. Choose
■ A relaxed environment.
of the body, is a warning that he feels a trainer who is recognized by an official

COME WHEN CALLED Training your dog to come when called should not be started on walks
because there are simply too many temptations that may cause your dog to ignore you. However,
by practicing the following simple steps at home or in your yard, your dog will learn that
coming back to you is always the better choice.

Show the treat to tempt him Get your Call him Keep your dog’s attention on you and Encourage him with a treat As soon as
1 dog focused on you by tempting him 2 take a few paces away from him. Then crouch 3 your dog is within two feet of you, hold out
with his favorite treat. Let him sniff the treat down to your dog’s level, throw your arms wide open, the treat as a lure and tempt him to come right up
but have a friend gently hold his collar so and call him with an enthusiastic “come.” As you do to you. Play with him a bit with the treat—you don’t
that he can’t eat it. this, your friend can let go of your dog’s collar. want him to grab the treat and run off.

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