Obedience Dog Training - How to Housebreak Your New Pup

By Dennis Fisher

Training should begin the moment you bring the pup into your home. Not serious training of course, but basic training in what you consider to be acceptable good manners. With gentle but firm handling your pup will soon learn what is expected of him.
It is important to remember, when you reprimand your pup, the correction must be associated with the unacceptable act. In housebreaking him, for example, it is essential to correct him immediately you find him misbehaving. It is pointless taking him to a spot you find later, pointing to it and reprimanding him in a loud disapproving voice. Or even worse, rubbing his nose in it. Of course he is going to look "guilty". You may gain the impression that he understands what he has done but this is certainly not so.

If you intend your dog to be a house dog, when you bring the pup into your home for the first time it is essential for him to have a place that he can consider "his home". Find a suitable place in the house. Provide suitable bedding of some sort - an old blanket, or towel - and let him know that this is where you expect him to lie.

Housebreaking your pup
A young animal's control of his functions is going to be weak. You cannot expect too much with regard to bladder control from a very young pup. If you live in a home where there is an outside garden, training will be very much easier. A soon as you see any evidence of him wanting to relieve himself, which will be very obvious by his behavior, pick him, without grabbing him. Make disapproving sounds without being too harsh - "No my dog! No my dog! Outside!" Carry him outside and watch him while he does his business. Then praise him enthusiastically. "That's a good dog!"

By watching the pup carefully, especially after he has eaten, the indication that he wants to relieve himself, will be more and more obvious to you. For the first week of two it might be necessary to be very attentive and watch him carefully. But housebreaking is usually not a lengthy process and it certainly should not continue for more than two weeks.
Of course the process can be helped considerably if you feed him at regular times, regular intervals and in specific place. He should also be allowed to drink water at specific times. About an hour after he has finished eating give him his bowl of water.

After he has had enough to drink it will not take long before the water starts to start taking effect. Within a half an hour after he has had sufficient water he will want to relieve himself. With regard to water not being freely available, it should be noted that restricting water applies only to a pup. Adult dogs should have water available for them at all times
If you are still in the initial stages of housebreaking, you can take wait for your pup to show the telltale signs of wanting to relieve himself. Then continue with the process of picking him up before he has a chance to do so. Take him quickly outside.

Alternatively if you have passed this early stage, you can take him directly outside; wait for him to perform, then praise extravagantly. The procedure is slightly different if you live in an apartment and it is difficult to take the pup quickly outside. You can put down several layers of newspapers over a fairly wide area in a certain place in the house - preferably near the back door.

Wait for him to show signs of wanting to relieve himself. Then pick him and place him on the newspapers. Use the same process of praising him when he has finished Place the papers near the door so that he will learn to associate this as the place where is required to go. At a later stage you can even place some of the papers half under the door and half outside. He will soon get used to the idea of going to the door when he wants to relieve himself, even when there are no papers.

Obviously the idea of newspapers on the floor can be very convenient at night. A very young pup will want to relieve himself frequently during the night. It is also a good idea to restrict the pup at night to a certain area in your home, preferably the kitchen or bathroom, rather than let him have the run of the house.
At a later stage, when he has the run of the entire house, he will soon get the idea of going to his own special area or will whine to go outside.

Dennis Fisher has been involved with many breeds of dogs every since his schooldays. Although he specializes in the breeding, obedience training and showing of top quality German Shephers, he has owned a great variety of different breeds. He was Director of training for an all-breed training School and is still active in competitive obedience training.

You will find a great deal of other useful information about the basic training of dogs on the author's website http://www.freedogadvice.com
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Dog Training Aids - Get The Right Tools For The Job

By Andrew Strachan

Dog trainers and their suppliers are endlessly coming up with new and innovative tool boxes for training purposes. These new dog training tools, while attractive in nature, should not be a substitute for basic training knowledge.
The first step in dog training is ensuring your dog is in good health. Gentle collars and relaxed training regiments can be harmful if the dog has unknown open sores or twisted paws.

Clickers
One of the best ways to gain a dog’s attention is through a clicker device. This is a hand-held device which fits into the palm of a hand. Loud ‘click-clack’ noises are emitted when a button is pressed and released. The main function behind this is preserving the trainers’ voice from repeating commands over and over again. The audible sound is detectable by dogs even in common surrounding background noises.
The clicker can be used to attract a dog’s attention. The common uses are as a reward or ‘begin’ sound when the dog exhibits a desired behavior.

Leashes and Collars
The dog leash market covers everything from two-foot control leashes to 30 foot extendable and retractable nylon cord variations.
A two to four foot leash is ideal for near training situations such as training to ‘sit’ or ‘stay’. An extendable leash is ideal for when trainers want to obey their dog. Regardless of the distance between dog and trainer, the trainer should always maintain the ‘alpha male’ position and thus always lead.

Like leashes, dog collars come in many variations. Be sure that all snaps, buttons and nylon material is in quality condition. This makes the collars suitable for even large dogs. Adjust the collars to allow the dog enough room to move its head around but not enough room to easily slip through and escape.
This trainer does not endorse the use of spike collars. These can easily damage a small dog and instill fear in large dogs. All breeds of dogs have strong neck muscles. One sharp tug of a choke collar however can bruise or damaged this area. Worst case is causing a collapse of the trachea. One common mistake is placing the choke collar on backwards. For these reasons, choke collars are counter-productive and often dangerous.

Vests
Much like leashes, chest halters and full vests strengthen a trainer’s hold over the dog. There is no excess pressure placed on the dog’s throat while the trainer maintains the hold advantage.
The only drawback to a vest training device is that no dog experiences discomfort from pulling. Therefore training is limited with this device to positive reinforcement behaviors. In fact, chest halters actually encourage pulling by the dog. This is discouraged behavior.
When extra control over a strong willed dog is needed, collars and leashes will not effectively serve this purpose.

Muzzles
Muzzles are effective in dealing with short term barking and biting control issues. The only drawback here is that the dog does not obtain another means in which to stop barking. Unless the muzzle is always present, the barking will continue to be an issue. The muzzle takes the training place of voice commands such as ‘no bark’.
Other devices exist on the market such as no-bark collars; electric fences and chemical sprays. However, these are used more as control devices than effective training tools.

Above all, the most effective training tools can not be found on the market. There is no substitute for giving your dog simple love and respect. Treating the dog like the loving part of the family will produce desired behavior quickly and more effectively than any training device.
Article by Andrew Strachan. Find out more dog training aids and dog behavior training advice at http://www.types-of-dogs.com/training/
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Dog Training Tips You Can Use To Teach Your Dog

By Mendy Stern

Regardless of the age of your dog it is never to late to train them. However, when possible, you should begin training a puppy at 6 to 8 weeks old. In this article we will look at dog training tips that you can use to train your dog or puppy. First of all positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog. Positive training leads to your dog wanting to please you and it will learn a lot faster. Dogs are like children in that they want to please you, but they need to be taught how. As soon as they know how to do this they will feel a part of your family.

By rewarding your dog with positive praise, and a treat, they will learn to listen to the command you are trying to teach. Each treat could be a piece of small chicken, or a tiny treat the size of a dime.

You do not want your dog eating off your table so teach them to lay down in their bed when it is time to sit down at the table to eat. Dogs need to only eat their own dog food.
When teaching your dog to stay, go down, and sit, you want to use a lower firm voice. But for the come and heel command do this in a friendly voice. Just make sure that all are firm but friendly commands. By using a different voice they will know you are teaching them something.

It used to be thought when a dog had an accident you rubbed their nose in it or you hit their nose with a newspaper. Do not do this because it is wrong. When you learn something you want positive praise and so does your dog. When your dog has an accident take it outside and show them were they should go.

The wrong way to train your dog is to punish them. You will scare them and they will be afraid of you and not learn what you are trying to teach them. To help your dog learn keep training them everyday day and give those little treats.
When your dog follows a command make sure you use positive praise and a treat so they know you are watching them and that you are proud of them. Hopefully you can use these dog training tips to teach your do what you want it to do.

Copyright (c) 2007 Mendy Stern
For more information on puppy dog training visit our website. For more information on Mendy Stern and Doggy pads visit Doggypads.com
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The Importance of Dog Obedience

By Mike Selvon

We all have rules that we must follow. These rules can come from our government or can be self-imposed rules to guide our behavior. Dog's are much the same way in that they must have rules to follow.
Dog obedience training helps show the animal how they should act and in what manner they must react to outside stimuli. Just as our past influences our behavior, a dog's behavior is the same way.

There are a variety of places a pet can come from. It may be as a puppy from a professional breeder or it could be an animal rescue organization. He or she can also come to you later on in their doggy years as a result of owners moving, being forced to get rid of the animal or from the local pound.
If you get your companion as a grown one, it may have had training. You can get an initial idea of the dog behavior by observing the animal when you go to pick it up.

There are some things you should and should never do when it comes to dealing with dog aggression. The first understands how an aggressive dog's stance can suggest how it will react to you. The first mistake most people make is assuming that all dogs are friendly.
They are not and you can find out this lesson in a very hard way. Always treat a new one with suspicion first. Do not immediately hug the animal or put your face on level with his or hers.
Do not make prolonged eye contact if the animal is growling or standing in a rigid way. The best way to approach an unknown one is with soft words and to allow the pet to gradually come to you.

Once the pet is in your possession you must immediately start working on the dog obedience lessons. You have to establish yourself as the dog's Alpha. In the wild or in groups of canines, the Alpha is the leader.
He or she is the dominant one of the pack. You must be dominant over your pet in order to have the obedience lessons stick.
Dog obedience training applies to all aspects of the animal's life, as well as your own. He must always know that you are the boss and that he must follow the rules. These rules could be house training, walking on a leash, eating food that he finds or from strangers and most importantly...not being aggressive towards other people.

Dog's bond with their Masters and will often show signs of aggression as a way to protect the Master from outsiders or dangers perceived by the animal.
Dog's make wonderful pets and can bring joy to you and your family's lives. Be responsible by training your pet. If you have questions you can look on dog forums for answers from fellow pet owners.

It is essential to show love to your pet and know that he is protected. If you do not think you can handle the dog obedience classes, or can not take the time, then be responsible by allowing someone else to have the opportunity to own and love the animal.

Mike Selvon has some great puppy training articles for the pet lover, where you can find out more about dog obedience. We appreciate your feedback at our pet training blog.
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Dog Training Basics - Obedience Training for Your Dog

By Thomas Eliot

Correctly training your newly acquired pet dog requires a knowledge of dog training basics. And understanding how dog communication works is paramount to successful dog training. The most important part of getting a dog to understand your commands and to learn new things involves making sure he understands what you are trying to get him to do. He must first understand that you are his master, someone whom he wishes to please. But when teaching your dog that you are his master, you don't get that respect from him by mistreating him or by punishing him incorrectly. To do either of these only confuses him.

Dogs understand communication through your tone of voice and through body language. Using simple one syllable words like "No" or "Bad" in a depreciating tone of voice without further unnecessary explanation to the dog will go much farther in communicating what you want it to understand than trying to give your dog a lecture he can't understand. He can understand when you point at some mess he's created and say "No!" that you are displeased with his behavior. What he can't understand, for instance, is you rubbing his nose in the mess and then lecturing him about what it was that he shouldn't have done. Punishing your dog in this manner without him understanding why will only frustrate him and may stunt his learning, making it more difficult to understand the obedience training.

Another mistake owners often make in dog training basics is calling their dog after the fact in order to discipline or correct him for something he's done wrong. As owner, you should never use the recall word "come" (or whatever word you use) to call your dog after discovering a mess he has made or for any negative reason. Bad deeds must be caught in the act in order to be corrected. If you want to show your dog the mess he's made, then firmly go get him and bring him back to the mess. Just don't allow him to associate his recall command with, "Huh-oh, I'm in trouble and about to get punished." Because that's very likely just how he's going to associate the term after you scold and punish him.

Remember, dogs know only "dog language," and you have to remain consistent in your use of the language you've already taught your dog, which means positive associations with the positive words you've taught him. If you start to allow him to associate negative situations with the positive words, over time he'll become wary of the meaning and not obey. If your dog learns that "come" means "angry owner – I'm in trouble now. Better scram!" then he's unlearning what you've already taught him. You want your dog to learn that "come" means "Get your buns over here as fast as possible" period! Your dog needs to understand that "come" means something positive – always – not that something negative is about to happen.

The dog training basics of communicating with your dog are to keep the communications simple and directly related to the present moment so he will learn what is acceptable behavior and what is not. He'll begin to learn quickly when you can relate your communication to actions and deeds which have just occurred. You cannot talk to your dog as though he were a human being who can remember what he did wrong yesterday. Keeping this simple idea in mind when disciplining your dog will go a long way toward helping him to learn the things you want him to learn.

For more information about effective dog training programs that really work see the following article Basic Dog Training - Professional Dog Training Tips You can learn to train your dog the way professionals do: quickly and efficiently! Don't forget to check out the free six day e-course and find out for yourself.
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Aids to Train Your Dog

By Graham Grant

To train you need to have the tools to do it and that is why dog training aids are a worthwhile purchase and not something that are there to part you with your hard earned money. Like any tool they only serve a purpose if they are used well and dog training aids will help you in teaching your dog if that is the case. Dog training aids are many and varied and depend mostly on what type of dog you have and its temperament so it is import you choose the right ones.

By far the most effective training aids are treats like small savory sticks you can buy in any super store or pet shot which you can give the dog to reinforce good behavior. These are dog training aids that have always performed the best as it is simple to implement and cheap to apply. But if you are really intent on spending a lot of money on aids there are also some other more expensive option.

Dog agility training aids include anti bark collars. These are used because quite a fair number of dogs don't like to do dog agility and will bark incessantly. With anti bark collars the dog will either be given an electric shock or have some water sprayed to remind the dog that barking is not the right thing to do at that particular time. It is not at all harmful on the dog in case you are wondering and will resolve the problem very quickly. These collars tend to be fairly inexpensive and available both in pet shops in high street or on line.

Dog training aids used for obedience include dog clickers. This is a new craze on the market and allow owners replace command words like “sit” with a click as well as rewarding with treats. Another aid that is very good at what it does is the harness. This is fitted around your dog upper torso. When you are teaching him to heel a simple tug will him back completely without using much force. This is an obedience aid that is especially effective for bigger dogs.

For around the home there are also simple and effective dog training aids. Dog training aids often prove to be worthwhile purchases when all else has been tried and often they will resolve the problem you have encountered with your dog. The fact that they are so cheap and accessible have also made the use of dog training aids more popular with more and more aids coming into the market bringing new ways to solve dog training problems or enhancing what is already in use.

Graham Grant is the owner of http://buypages.info/Dog-Training.html, which specializes in providing useful dog training information and resources for dog owners the world over! Go here for more details: http://buypages.info/Dog-Training.html
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Training Your Dog - Working With Your Dog's Pack Instincts

By Craig Mannington

Dog training is a great way to get to know your dog better and spend quality time with him or her. There are many methods of training your dog, but the best methods include the owner's involvement. Taking your dog to a trainer is a great option for puppies and first time pet owners. However, there is a significant amount of dog training information and equipment including dog training collars, videos, books and internet material which allow any dog owner to do the training themselves in the comfort in their own home.

Before you enroll in training or begin training on your own you should be aware of what influences your dog's behavior. Before the domestication of the dog they were a pack animal, similar to the wolves of the wild today. To be a part of a pack is something that comes naturally to your dog, including their puppyhood days fighting with their siblings for a position to suckle and maintaining their rank in the puppy pecking order. But in your home he has been removed from his birth pack.

Your dog views both you and himself as members of the same pack. In a pack, there will be a leader or "alpha". In the wild, packs have alpha dogs - both male and female. In the wild, the alpha controls the behavior of subordinate pack members. If you have more than one dog, you need to know about alpha behavior, as the alpha dog has the most freedom in the pack. The alpha dog will eat first, sleep where he wants and take what he thinks is his.

A crucial part of training your dog is establishing who is the alpha: you or your dog. Since your dog sees you as just a member of his pack, you have to become the alpha. With a young puppy this process is considerably easier, but might be slightly more difficult with your full-grown canine. Usually people have no problem with doing this themselves, but those with particularly aggressive dogs can and should enlist the help of a professional trainer.

Several simple methods can be utilized to establish this position rather quickly with a puppy. There are two easy techniques to use when establishing yourself as alpha. One technique includes first making eye contact by briefly staring at your dog, and secondly using the command to "sit" in a firm tone of voice. Only the alpha will engage in staring behavior, and the subordinate animal will soon look away submissively. The second technique is to have your dog sit on command before being fed, petted or before play. This establishes quickly that you are in control.

Since you are seen as part of the pack, unless you want your dog controlling you, establishing who is going to be alpha must be done as early in the relationship as possible. Consider that there is only one leader, and that position will belong to either you or your canine. If you are not in the alpha position, you will be following the will of your pet. If that happens, is your animal ordering you around, or are you the one training your dog?

Need more tips on training your dog? Ensure that he or she knows that you are the leader of the pack. Visit Craig Mannington's TrainYourDogGuide.com for more tips on how you can train your dog at home.
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Dog Obedience Hand Signals - The Next Step in Dog Training

By Xavier Gallery

Ever wonder how show dogs perform such great trick without as much as a whisper from their trainer? The secret s dog obedience hand signals, and there are many reasons why you should incorporate them into your training strategy.

Attention TrainingAs you begin to integrate hand signals into your training plan your dog will become more reliant on watching your moves. He will focus on your gestures and give you his complete attention. This attentiveness builds a stronger authority level for you, which ultimately develops a more obedient dog. It also increases your dog’s level of focus and enhances his learning capacity.

Distraction Control

Even the most obedient dog can be distracted by his surroundings. Loud noises, large crowds, and other dogs can interfere with your dog’s cognitive abilities. The use of hand signals can still be effective in these situations because they only require visual recognition. You will have an effective means of communicating with your pet, even when the surroundings are less than ideal.

Fun for Both Sides

Dog obedience hand signals also serve as fun way to interact with your pet. Dogs, by nature, crave the attention of their owners. Once they have mastered the basics of obedience training they will literally live for your attention and praise. Teaching hand signals to your dog adds to the enjoyment of pet ownership. Your dog will work hard to learn the new commands, and you will have some impressive tricks to show off to your friends.

By teaching your dog to recognize hand signals, you will add a new element to your relationship. You will develop a new form of communication with your pet, and your dog will be become more attentive and focused. Best of all, you will strength the bond with dog while creating some new opportunities to spend time together.

Learn how to teach your dog hand signals. Visit DogBookReview.com to read comprehensive dog training book reviews that will help you find the most effective training guides.
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Dog Grooming And Dog Training Made Simple

By Wade Robins

We may have made our pets dependent of a comfortable life, in which the master takes them out for casual walks and feeds them on command, after having cuddled them behind their giddy ears, but a natural instinct for self-grooming will never be gone, and the proud owner should sustain this instinct. This process is a daily and a weekly one, so dog grooming training is necessary in order to make it easier for the pet and for you too. As funny as a bubble bath may seem to our kids, your furry friend may find it strangely irritating, unless you follow some simple training guidelines to make him go through the ordeal of grooming: from clipping his toenails, brushing his fangs, to smoothing that cute rich fur of his, or sleek glossy hide with a welcomed bath. That is the reason why dog grooming training sessions are required, and the good news is you don’t have to have a PhD or a BD for this; you do need some special tools, rewards to motivate the pet and the persistence of your school teacher when telling you about logarithms. The result will be a satisfying one, though, and your dog will be fit to walk on a cat walk!

A Dawdling Process
There are these few main activities that are compulsory when speaking of a dog grooming training session: the brushing of his teeth, the clipping of his nails so as not to scratch that beautiful leather arm chair you just bought or to gather germs that make him prone to diseases and taking care in every possible way of his fur, less or more existent, depending on the breed: the coat of a groomed dog must be glossy, healthy and resistant. In order to do this, you will imminently annoy the dog by touching him in forbidden places: his aggressiveness might be aroused and he may act strangely every time the process recurs. The most important thing is not to hurry up, dawdle here and there, with smooth caresses and sprinkle the dog grooming sessions with several rewards, so that he develop a conditional instinct of pleasure specifically in these times. The first activity is the brushing of his mean “fangs”, to maintain their health and that of the gums too. The muzzle of the dog is another sensitive area so pat him gently and caress the nose and when he pulls up his lip, you will be able to position the toothbrush. Make him feel good during this by enhancing his self-esteem, speaking to him slowly and soothingly and offering him a reward: you shouldn’t be surprised if this training hint will enable you to brush his teeth often and even turn it into a spa for your pet, an enjoyable one.

If you desire to clip the nails, the identical gentle behavior and treats are required, except that you have to touch his paws and to press them to see clearly the nails: it is not a particular pleasant thing for your furry friend so be patient and persistent: the time you are investing in the dog grooming training will be recovered soon, when he will sit calmly every time you want to perform the task a bit faster. The brushing of the pet’s coat of fur is definitely not that difficult or disagreeable, like brushing his teeth or clipping his toenails, to some extent. However, when delicate areas such as his back end or tail are involved, things have to be taken slow: make him comfortable first, when touching these parts of his body, give him rewards, speak soothingly to him, pat him carefully and in the end he will lighten up and allow you to act there as well: operate with slow strokes of the brush in the back side and at the tail to obtain an ideal grooming where it is genuinely needed.

As it has been said, rewards and persistence are the main ingredients to performing a proper dog grooming training, achieving both a better relationship between you and the dog, and make it a more enjoyable task with the permission of your pet.

You can also find more info on Dog Training Equipment and Dog Training School. Startdogtraining.com is a comprehensive resource to know how to train your Dog.
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About Labrador Retrievers - Top Dog Breed

By Scott Tibbs

The more you learn about Labrador Retrievers the easier it is to see why they are why they are one of the most popular breed of dog in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Labradors, often called Labs, are very friendly, good natured and intelligent dogs. They eagerly respond to praise and positive attention, which is partly why they are considered one of the fastest learning breeds of dogs: making training a very rewarding experience. Due to its keen sense of smell, it is frequently used for drug detection by Law Enforcement. This working dog is also used for rescue operations, and is a worldwide choice for Guide Dog Programs.

The first thing most people notice about Labrador Retrievers is that they truly are great looking dogs with a sturdy and athletic build. Labs come in three colors; Black (a solid black color), Golden (from a white, to yellow, to a fox red), and Chocolate (medium dark brown). Golden Labs have black or pink noses, while Chocolate and Black Labs have noses that match the color of their coat.

Labs are fairly large: the height and weight of an adult differs from males weighing from 60 to 80 pounds, and the smaller females weighing between 45 to 70 pounds. Males are usually 22-24 inches tall while the females are 21 to 23 inches tall. Eye color ranges from dark to mid brown, depending on the color of their coat. Labradors tend to shed hair throughout the year, and their short, thick, interwoven coats are fairly waterproof providing them with protection from water and weather. This combined with webbed feet and an otter-like tail help to make them natural swimmers, and most Labs love to swim and play in the water.

What I like most about Labrador Retrievers is their wonderful temperament. Because they are exceptionally friendly and well balanced; they make great family dogs. They are good with children and other pets, and are very obedient. They are not usually aggressive but they are very protective of their family, and will growl at strangers or anyone they think is a threat. These dependable companions are intelligent and very easy to train. Training this breed should be started early on, and proper dog care requires plenty of exercise. As the name suggests they are excellent retrievers. They will tirelessly chase a ball or a stick and they are champion Frisbee players as well as top retrievers for duck hunters.

When it comes to health issues, there is good and bad. Unlike other dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers are not prone to: aggression, territorialism, insecurity, nervousness, destructiveness, or hypersensitivity. However, like other large dogs, Labs are subject to developing elbow or hip dysplasia which can lead to arthritis, mobility problems, discomfort and swelling.

Ear infections are another common problem you’ll find among Labrador Retrievers, because their floppy ears tend to trap warm moist air. Checking the ears regularly will help to avoid problems. A healthy Labs ears should look clean and light pink inside. Darker pink, red or brownish deposits are a symptom of ear infection. Usual treatment is cleaning the ear once or twice a day and sometimes even medicated ear drops for severe cases.

A key point to always remember about Labrador Retrievers; they love to eat. They are very persuasive and persistent when they want food. Owners must be careful not to let them overeat to avoid obesity and other health problems which can lead to the development of arthritis, hip dysplasia and diabetes, and overall reduced health in latter years of life. The average life span of a Labrador is somewhere between 10 to 13 years.

What professional dog trainers love about this animal is just how well they respond to dog training. Due to their extreme intelligence, they will vigorously learn, and love to work for their owners. The real challenge when training Labrador Retrievers, is that they don't mature for a very long time, so for this dog to obey you completely can take a while. Labradors are sensitive to the tone of your voice so if you remain firm and fair, you will do well. Due to their size and weight when they are full grown; you would do well to discourage them from pulling on the leash from early on. A trained dog is a truly a happy dog, so if you are not a professional trainer, do yourself a favor and buy a book about dog training. There are many books available, and in today’s world information is easily available on the internet: you can find the best at my website for training Labrador Retrievers or any other dog.

One last comment about Labrador Retrievers: this high energy breed needs regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy, and daily exercise will help them to control their weight. They have a natural desire for play and love to retrieve balls or sticks, and this type of play provides mental stimulation as well as needed exercise.

Did you find the information about Labrador Retrievers helpful? I have owned and trained dogs all my life and have read countless books as well as purchased several online training courses. I have sorted through and found the top courses available and I would like to share them with you. So, go ahead; take a free look. You can also find lots of other free information about dogs: And I'll even let you in on other secrets, like... http://Dog-Masters.com/
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3 Most Common Mistakes Made When Training Your Dog

By Pearl White

1. Saying “HEEL” and snapping the leash to jerk your dog’s collar AT THE SAME TIME! This does not teach your dog to heel. It teaches your dog that the word “heel” means they are going to have their collar jerked. This confuses them because they do not know what they have done to deserve having their collar jerked.

2. Not differentiating between “Off” and “Down.” “Off” means get Off something. “Down” means lie down. So next time you tell your dog “down” to get them off the couch and they lie down and look at you, its because they were told to lie down there! They are confused, not misbehaving.
3. Bending over your dog’s head or getting in his face when giving a command. This intimidates the dog and the dog may shy away or even react aggressively. Either way, you don’t have a happy dog that wants to work for you.

If you want to train your dog there are three basic weapons that your training arsenal should be equipped with the first is praise, the second is discipline and the final is bribery. Dog training is a combination of all three and a dog cannot be trained by employing just one of the above mentioned. All in all dog training is not rocket science all it takes is a little bit of research and patience, patience, patience.

Positive training techniques involve using only praise and positive reinforcement. Reprimanding is a type of dog training that should not be done unless necessary.
One of the most effective methods is rewarding your pet after he/she has obeyed your command. As with any form of training, you want the sessions to be fun and motivational for your dog.

Regular training sessions are another one of the key dog training tips that will insure your success as they will have more of an impact than sporadic ones. The training needs to be fun , do it properly and you will learn how to stop bad habits from forming, or how to eradicate unwanted behaviors that already exist.

So when searching for tips or lessons on training your dog, search for training guides that offer video instruction online.

Training your dog or puppy should not be difficult. It should be a pleasant learning experience for both you and your pet. Please visit us and watch a free online video. To Learn more, please visit our blog:
http://dog-training-videos.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pearl_White

Puppy Training & Dog Training

By Ronald Fritz

Puppies and dogs are reliable, usually sensible and sometimes funny. You can never stay angry at them for long and the eyes, when they stare at you, seem to be pleading, asking, begging for something more, but you got to love them. They bring happiness and make their owners smile, with their goofy walking and puppy eyes.

Puppies are innocent and forgiving; they see everything as a fun game where everybody should be playing. Loving your puppy will help them love you; they will become part of your family. Puppies seem to be a fountain of understanding; they know when you feel down and try to comfort you with a nice warm kiss and a little cuddle.

Yet innocence can be deceiving, without puppy training, discipline can be tough and they can become a hell hole. Chunks start disappearing from the couch and your favorite shoes start looking like something mauled by a wild bear. Stinky, warm patches appear in the most unlikely places and the plants aren’t where you last left them.

Puppy training is the second thing you look for after you realize that you new furry best friend has just relief themselves all over the kitchen floor; the first being the paper towers that you can never seems to find. Puppy potty training can help fix this problem as can puppy training and behavior training help you enjoy more your new friend. There are many training hints and tips out there even for those dogs older dogs looking for that odd bit of obedience training.

So it’s in your and your furniture’s best interest to train your puppy.
A well train puppy will grow up into a happy, healthy dog, who will love you as long as you look after them properly and you and your dog will be happy.

Find out more about puppy and dog tips and solutions for dogs behavior at Puppy Training Tips & Hints
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ronald_Fritz

Dog Obedience Training

By Demosthenes Damon

Dog obedience training is not about giving commands and pushing a dog to work hard instead of enjoying life, it's quite the opposite. Dog obedience training is a continuous process. Dog obedience training is vital to the safety of the dog, his handler, and those around him. You can reap large rewards for properly training your dog.

Obedience
Obedience training doesn't solve all behavior problems, but it is the foundation for solving the most common problems. Obedience training should be fun and rewarding for you and your dog. Obedience training will give your pet a job to do and can be useful in redirecting some of the mental energy of an animal that was meant for work. Obedience training is often a prerequisite for or component of other training. Owners may take a while longer to learn this dog psychological behavior training method and how best to put it into consistent practice in order to achieve the highest quality of dog or puppy obedience and improve their relationship with canine companions. Whether a puppy or adult dog, your new friend will need guidance, obedience instruction, and understanding. Without any basic obedience training, a dog may still be a wonderful companion and friend for you. However, how do you know that your dog is safe, and reliable in all situations?

Puppy
Obedience Training is one of the best things you can do for your dog or puppy. It is best to train your puppy or dog right now before problems worsen or prevents new problems from developing later on. Using a hula-hoop is a good way to teach the "In" and "Out" commands while your puppy has fun. It's a good idea to learn what to do and NOT to do if you have to leave your puppy alone for several hours. In my website I give a skeptical review on one author's tips on bringing new puppy home, crate training a puppy, puppy house training, and introducing children and dogs. Whether you train your puppy yourself or hire a professional, teaching your dog commands and how to socialize will make both you and your pet happier throughout your dog's life.

Dog obedience training isn't just about showing off the latest pet tricks to your friends. Dog obedience training teaches your dog how to think and problem solve. Dog obedience training is in general, an education to cultivate dogs to become reliable and predictable. If you would like to learn more about what I think of some of the "experts" have to say on dog obedience training, visit my site. I am very skeptical of many online experts and what they have to share with the public.

Demosthenes Damon is an article writer and dog lover. To learn more about his the reviews of dog training products please visit http://www.dogbookdoubter.com/ or click Dog Training Visit my "no holds barred" at http://www.dogbookdoubter.com where I share the truth about some online dog educational materials.
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Dog Agility Training Safety Tips

By Jeff Pettit

Dog agility training can be fun and exciting for your dog and your whole family but there are some things you must consider when training your dog at home or “just for fun”.
If you are considering entering your dog in competition then it is best to take your dog to a dog agility trainer right from the beginning but if you are training your dog for fun and exercise then here are some points to consider:

- First you must consider the safety of your dog. - Do not attempt to do too much too quickly. Know the limits of your dog. - Certain breeds or young dogs should not do too much jumping. Talk to a trainer if you are concerned. - Everyday household items can be used to build a course. Be careful of sharp pointy bits though as it is easy to poke an eye when dog agility training. - Even puppies can participate in some easy agility training such as running through a cardboard tunnel. - Dog agility training takes time and patience. - If jumping over a bar make sure that the bar can be displaced both ways. - Make sure your dog is always under control. This will reduce the risk of any injuries. - Use positive reinforcement. This is a much better motivator. - Always reward your dog when a task is completed. - End training in a positive way and have fun!

If you are looking at getting into agility training in a more serious way you can visit cleanrun.com to search for agility schools near you or if you are looking for a dog to train, Border Collies are often considered as the ultimate agility dog. They are quick learners and work hard. They are able to concentrate and aren’t easily distracted. They are athletically built and are longer then they are tall which gives them increased flexibility.

Having said that many breeds perform excellently at dog agility training, and if you are just doing it at home for exercise then it doesn’t matter if your dog isn’t a well honed athlete, as long as you both have fun.
Teach your dog agility training and basic dog training at: Dog Training
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Dog Training Aids To The Rescue

By Michael Russell

You can go through your dog training activities in a breeze if you are equipped with all the right stuff. Among the basic items that you will need in training your dog are a 6-foot leather leash, a slip or choke collar, a 15-foot line, cotton rope or webbing, bait pouches, a crate or exercise pen, baby gates, motivational toys and grooming tools.

Leashes or Leads
There is a wide variety of leashes available in the market today. Leashes can be made from a number of different materials and may come in different sizes and widths. Among the most common materials used for leashes are leather, nylon and chain.

For maximum comfort for both you and your dog, it would be advisable to choose a 6-foot leash made from good quality leather and use it during your dog training sessions. Among the many advantages of using leather leashes are the following:
.It can provide more comfort for you and your dog during trainings. Unlike nylon leads, good quality leather does not cut or burn your skin. And unlike chain leashes, leather leads do not produce earsplitting noises.
.It is lightweight and is therefore easier to carry.
.Leather leashes last a lot longer. They can even last for several years!

Collars
Using slip or training collars can be a logical choice when you are trying to train your dog. These collars tighten as the dog pulls and loosen as he/she relaxes giving your dog the appropriate signals whenever he/she is making a mistake. However, collars should never be used to punish or choke your dog. When buying a collar, make sure you pick one that fits your dog properly. Collars that are either too small or too large can be dangerous and extremely irritating to your dog.

Dogs who do not respond to slip collars would do better with a halter. A halter fits over the dog's head and muzzle while allowing him/her to pant and to drink. You can easily control the direction of the dog's head and his entire body as well by using a halter.

The 15-Foot Line
A 15-foot line is like a long leash that enables you to control your dog even at a distance. You can easily grab it at different places to show your dog who the boss is and as such, can be a very good dog training device.

Bait Pouches
Having dog treats in your pockets can be one of the worst inconveniences you can encounter during your dog training sessions. When the treats are scattered on your pockets, you might fumble for a while just to find where they are. As a result, there will be a delay between the time your dog performs something worthy of a treat and the actual time when the treat is given. You may not promptly give your dog the reward he or she deserves and hence, defeating the purpose of the activity altogether.

To solve this, consider purchasing or making your own bait pouches. These bait pouches can be made up from any ordinary canvas tool pouches and tied around your waist during your dog training activities. This will make access to the goodies a lot easier and your dog wouldn't have to wait around indefinitely as you fumble for the doggie treats they just earned!

A final word of advice - do not trust every word your friendly salesman has to say. All of these items were designed to make your dog training efforts incredibly easy but with the popularity of these products in the market, a lot of manufacturers are out there to make a buck or two from unsuspecting dog owners! Know what really works and what doesn't. You need to know which of these gears deliver on their promises and which ones were designed specifically to make a profit. It would be best to do your research extensively and seek advice from credible sources to know more about these things.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dog Training
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Dog Obedience Training - Makes for a Much Happier Family

By Arnie Jacobsen

Dog Training is the key to having a happy and healthy dog. It is also the key to keeping your sanity and a happy home.
The first ingredient for effective dog obedience training to be effective is to build a solid and trusting relationship between dog and owner. And, before this can occur, a common language needs to be created. This can only be achieved when the dog obedience training that you are employing opens the way to learning, and provides you with the ability understand your pet and its needs.

Through dog obedience training you make sure that the animal always responds in a positive ways to your commands. The idea is to work with the dog in such a way as to ensure that the animal remains calm and will not develop anti-social behaviors. Exercises will help your pet create the best responses to stimuli and therefore, dog obedience training works for the benefit of both animal and adoptive family. Specific centers meet the requirements of dog owners who seek professional help in training their dogs. Though this is not commonly necessary if the owner understands the needs of the dog, and how to best address them.

There are several types of dog obedience training; let’s have a look at the very basic ones. The most common and easy to put into practice are the reward-based and the leash training types. The latter is considered to belong to the traditional dog obedience training used at first in military facilities. For such practical purposes, the leash dog obedience training has more advantages than the food reward, since it finds better adaptation to the task or mission the animal has to face. The collars bring mild or even hard correction, yet, make sure that you don’t use it ineffectively.

The leash dog obedience training teaches the animal to obey to collar control. You will need to remember that the leash is just the first step into developing the skills to get the dog obey under no matter what circumstances and relying on other tools as well. This type of dog obedience training establishes the hierarchy or the leadership in the dog’s life and the relation you develop with the dog very much depends on this aspect. Now, let’s see how the reward dog obedience training system works. Commands given to the animal and properly executed are rewarded. Thus, the pet associates a specific positive behavior with certain rewards, caresses, a toy or usually food. Behavior patterns develop along these lines as dog obedience training pursues a mutual understanding between pet and owner.

Ridding a dog of wanted behaviors is best accomplished by never letting them happen in the first place if possible, but in the even that isn't possible, say in the case of an adopted dog, more intense study is required. Some may decide to hire a professional in dog obedience training, but even here you have to be an active part in the process since you are the one to spend most time with the pet. Many find that learning how to do this on their own is much more rewarding.

Arnie Jacobsen loves dogs and knows a thing or too about dog obedience training He also offers tips on training aggressive dog elimination.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arnie_Jacobsen

How To Solve Common Dog Behavior Problems

By Francisco Lakay

Solving common dog behavior problems such as chasing after cars, destructive chewing and digging up the yard might be the result of poor communication from your side. Because dogs are pack animals like wolfs, they need a natural leader or an alpha dog. If no leader is assigned to them they will generally assume that they are alpha unless you communicate otherwise to them. Now I do not mean for you to get all aggressive with you dog by hitting or yelling just to "show" him who is boss. Like in any relationship a level of trust and friendship goes along way to achieving a mutual interest: well-being and respect for one another!

Communication starts by being there for one another, and with your dog it is not any different. Winning your dog's respect means more to him than to you, because it gives him someone to look up to. If you are already having a dog that shows a lack of discipline, comes when he feels like it, does what he likes and even shows the occasional aggressive behavior, you have got one problem only! Your dog is alpha and you are not, and all this is because of a lack of communication from your side.

So, how do you display alpha behavior to your dog? (More info at: Dog Behavior) For starts do not decide to "teach" your dog when you are angry or upset. Here are some ideas to assume the alpha role for your dog:
1) Stand tall, make eye contact and address your dog in a lowered voice
2) Make him sit and wait while you prepare his food
3) Do not allow him to beg food at the table
4) Feed him after you have eaten
5) Make sure that everyone in the family follows the same set of rules for your dog.

Correcting dog behavior problems should not be frustrating and least of all aggressive taught. Meet your dog halfway to understanding his/her behavior by obtaining relevant information at Online Dog Training.
Would you like to learn your dog new tricks or just get him to obey simple orders like "NO!"? What about all the unnecessary digging around the house?

Francisco M. Lakay is the author of the site Correct Dog Behavior that gives you insight into understanding and correcting your dog’s behavior patterns.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Francisco_Lakay

Dog Behaviour Training - Why Is It So Important

By Mirko Van Anken

Dog behavior training is simple enough for the experienced dog lover but when it comes to beginners all the help available is needed. If you are an beginner or even an experienced dog owner you need to invest some time into a little bit of dog behavior training.
Dog behavior and dog behavior problems are sometimes difficult to solve, whether it be that disobedient dog that has selected deafness or the dog behavior training for adopted or rescue dogs. Dog Language gives you a dog's eye view. Dog behavior problems on the lead are a thing of the past as you make dog training easy and give yourself complete control over who takes who for a walk. Dogs are a lot smarter than they look so do not get taken in by their innocent-looking face or let them walk all over you no matter how much their eyes make them look like they are truly sorry. Dog training is the process of teaching a dog to exhibit certain desired behaviors in specific circumstances. Dogs like to be praised, so while you make him sit, tell him he is a good boy.

As I mentioned dogs like to be praised, so while you make him sit or play with him, tell him he is a good boy with a slow quiet voice. He will love you for this. Training is also challenging and stimulates a dog's mind. Train your dog is easy, fun, and very effective. If you do your dog behavior training the right way! But it will be fun for you and your dog.
Here are some tips for you to start. While training, stand up straight and do not slow up when you turn. Obedience training can begin as early as three to four months if yon train the dog yourself. A little tip for a puppy, a puppy learns right from wrong by associating his act with pleasing or displeasing results.

And think about that obedience training can begin as early as three to four months. If you are well informed about dog behavior training you can train your dog at home and that is a very, very funny thing to do. You will see. There are a lot of techniques that you can use to train your dog. Take the ones you like the most.
Okay lets summarize the point. As I said dog behavior training is simple enough for the experienced dog lover but when it comes to beginners all the help available is needed. So you need to invest some time into a little bit of training with your dog and if you have experience in training then you can learn a lot of more interesting techniques. So start your dog behavior training and help your dog to be your best friend. You will like it to train and have fun with your dog.

If you want to know more about dog behavior training then you have to visit this site.There you can get all the stuff you need to handle your dog,just go here http://www.trainingdog.de
It is full of techniques and tips.Visit my Blog too and get even more tips http://trainingforyourdog.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mirko_Van_Anken

Curb Behaviour Problems Through Dog Agility Training

By Jeff Pettit

Is training your dog a chore? Do you find you are getting nowhere even after repeated attempts to teach your dog? Sometimes adding a new dimension to old methods can have great results. Sometimes an old dog can learn new tricks.

Benefits of Dog Agility Training
Dog agility training is not just for competitive or sport orientated dogs. Any dog can try at least some basic tricks and you may find it has the added benefit of allowing your dog to build trust in you and to be more responsive to other training in general. Dog agility training is fun for you and your dog and tends to take some of the pressure out of general dog training.
Dog agility training is about teaching your dog to perform such feats as jumping over bars or other items, climbing obstacles, weaving in and out of poles and running through tunnels. It gives your dog the opportunity to get the exercise he desperately needs and teaches him to obey commands at the sound of your voice. Dog agility training will stimulate your dog both mentally and physically and will teach you how to have complete control over your dog.

Dog Agility as a Sport
In dog agility a dog will have to run through an obstacle course under the guidance of his handler. The dogs are timed and scored on ability to complete each obstacle and time taken. As smaller dogs are disadvantaged because they can’t run as quickly they are given more time to complete the course.
Dog agility requires a wide range of techniques to be used to teach your dog to perform various manoeuvres around different types of equipment. As a competitive sport can be quite complex and if you are considering this for your dog then it is best to get the guidance of a trainer.

Dog Agility Training at Home
When you are agility training your dog from home you must first consider the safety of your dog. Do not expect too much and be careful of sharp objects. If you are doing any kind of strenuous exercise or a lot of jumping seek the help of a professional agility trainer.
Dog agility training can be a great way to spend quality time with your dog. It allows you both to participate in fun activities and get some exercise while doing it. It bonds the dog with the owner and will make the dog more responsive to training and taking commands from you, making life with your dog all around a more enjoyable experience.

Agility dog training and basic dog training techniques can be found at: Dog Agility Training
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Pettit

Dog Obedience Training Helps You to Understand Each Other

By Wade Robins

When dog behaves badly it does not mean that dog is bad, it is an animal and acts only according to his nature. The dogs can be moody at times and can behave in a way which might appear strange. Dog obedience training is not aimed at improving the behaviour of the dog or alters its mood swings but instead it is designed to make the owner and the family members to understand their dog better and vice versa. The dog obedience training is meant for dogs to understand the commands and various situations. Thus, dog obedience training provides mutual understanding or contacts among owner and dog. Well nobody guarantees on dog's temperament which can change in no time but what one can do is take precaution to avoid any untoward incident.

Mostly dogs are considered as playful animals and always want to please the owner. Once dog understands your behavior and the commands then it will be less likely to offend your wishes. The dog obedience training should be initiated with simple training sessions and commands and gradually turning to more complicated instructions. This enables the dog to get accustomed to new role and slowly it learns that he is being trained and that a particular type of behaviour is expected of him when given the particular command.

The initial lessons are meant to make the dog and trainer or the owner to be more comfortable in each others company and understand each other. There are cases when the dog only obeys the commands of the trainer or one member of the family who might have trained him and completely ignore the commands of the other family members. Hence it is necessary that after training the dog should be interacted with, by other family members using same commands.

Older dogs are a bit slow in learning as compared to the pups, as they have their own system of communication with humans, and since years these have been inculcated in their mind, though with some effort these dogs can also be trained provided you have the required patience and tact to do so. The first step in this direction is to make the dog unlearn old habits and then train it accordingly.

Once dog learns about the affiliation and command between the owner and his dog, then slowly dog will be eager to learn more commands and projected conduct from the owner. It might happen and happens many times, where old behavioral understanding persists. You should also keep in mind the fact that even a well trained dog can disobey at times. Once a relationship and order has been established between you and the dog, it will start learning more. It is advisable to impart small training sessions and not prolong the trainings as this may wear out the dog and his concentration.

You can also find more info on Dog Training and Dog Behaviour Training. Startdogtraining.com is a comprehensive resource to know how to train yor Dog.
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Stopping Agressive Dog Behavior

By Bill Nadraszky

Do you have an aggressive dog? Do you have problems when your dog sees other dogs that they he is always barking and trying to get at the other dog? Well the problem may not just be your dog’s problem but instead it may be more of a problem with the way your dog looks at interactions with other dogs.

Even when dogs have been trained and been around a lot of dogs your own dogs tendency will still to be to be an aggressive dog when your dog makes eye contact with other dogs. This is mostly a problem caused by the way in which most dog obedience courses are taught. Remember back when your dog was in a class with other dogs and you had to pull with the leash to keep your dog away from these other dogs. As you probably know, most dogs are naturally curios and when a pup gets together for the first time with a bunch of other dogs he would have been curious. The natural course of action as a new dog owner would have been to pull your dog hard away from the other dogs and now your dog will have learned that being around other dogs is bad and in the case of being close to other dogs it is easier to scare them away by being aggressive than it is to be docile and perhaps find a new friend.

As time has gone on you have probably pulled your dog away from other dogs at the dog park and now you have reinforced the idea that being around other dogs is bad. Well you certainly can teach an old dog new tricks and this trick is to let your dog be friendly again but still be respectful around other dogs.

The strongest emotion that you can instill at this point is to make eye contact with your dog. As you make eye contact your dog will get nervous but as you are making eye contact feed him some treats so that he knows that this is a good situation to be in. Next time you are at a dog park or another place where there are a lot of dogs around you can do the same thing. If the other dog is good then feed your dog treats as a reward for good interaction, if the interaction is bad then feed him no treats. These actions will change the way that your dog looks at other dogs and if here meets a friendly dog he will not be aggressive anymore but will still be wary around another aggressive dog.

Curing your dog from being aggressive is not really hard to do but these actions should definitely help your dog to be friendlier around dogs and this should translate to being better around people too.

There are many things that you can do to make your dog much better and very responsible to you and your family. Look around this site and if you need more please visit my review of a great dog training book.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Nadraszky

Simple Tips for Solving Almost Any Dog Behavior Problem

By M. Bruno

Millions of dogs are dumped at dog shelters or abandoned due to an inability, or unwillingness of their owners to deal with dog behavior problems.

With a little education and some effort it simply doesn’t have to be this way. The vast majority of dog behavior problems can be solved with appropriate and humane dog behavior training.

Even the most frustrating and dangerous dog behavior issues such as dog aggression, dog biting and property destruction by dogs can be managed. The more severe and longer existing conditions should be referred to a qualified dog behavior expert such as a dog trainer for resolution.

It is important to keep in mind that dog behavior problems are not often solved in a day. Time and patience along with a commitment to your relationship with your dog is the first and most important ingredient in the recipe for fixing almost any dog behavior problems.

Some of the most common dog behavior problems are:

•Barking

•Chewing on furniture, clothes and household objects

•Excessive Digging

•Separation Anxiety

•Relocation Anxiety

•Fear of Loud Noises

•Biting and mouthing by puppies

•Hyperactivity

•Dog Aggression

•Food Aggression

•Submissive Urination

•Coprophagia or dog poop eating

•Jumpin

•Excessive Licking

Whatever dog behavior issue challenges you and your dog there are experts who can help you and reading material to point you in the right direction.

Here’s a few tips to help you with common dog behavior issues
In many cases dogs will exhibit “bad” behavior when they are bored and need exercise. So be sure to take your dog for a walk at least twice a d ay. Outings at the park for some run and play will also help to give your dog she absolutely must have to be healthy and happy. Be certain to ask your vet as to the right amount of exercise for your dog.

Dogs need to be socialized. Going for a walk in the neighborhood, meeting and greeting neighbor dogs is fun for you and your dog and I believe is a natural aspect of their pack mentality.

Keep control of the walk. Have your dog on a short leash if he is a puller and have him keep up with you. A nice brisk walk helps set boundaries and tells Sparky that you are the leader. A word of caution …do not pull or do anything that could potentially hurt your dog in any way. If you can not achieve control of the walk, get a dog trainer to show you the proper technique.

Give your dog a job! If you are grabbing for the treat bag, have Sparky hunt for the treat, run for it or find it hidden under a toy. Nothing like little “hunting” to make the day more fun!
Keep in mind that while your dog may be your baby, she is first and foremost a dog. She is going to react in the here and now and not in accord with your system of behavioral norms.

Find a qualified professional dog trainer or dog training help to get you past the issues that you just can’t manage alone. A little professional help can rapidly alleviate dog behavior issues that endless frustration and unwarranted dog scolding will never correct…it will only make things worse.

Dogs 4 Life offers help on dog behavior and dog care issues. For information on how to solve dog behavior problem visit http://www.dogs-4life.com/disobedient-dog-help.html
This article may be reproduced unedited and provided the link to the author’s site is displayed with the article.
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Why Punishment Might Be Causing More Dog Behavior Problems Than It Solves

By Aidan Bindoff

What is the difference between "pro-active" and "reactive" dog training? When we make pro-active training choices we don't say "stop doing that", we say "this is what I want you to do instead".

Imagine you draw a circle or pie-chart of 24 hours of your dog's typical day. You fill in pieces with every separate activity or behaviour your dog does in a typical day. You've got a large chunk filled up with sleeping, another chunk with drinking, another chunk with eating, another with ear scratching, going to the toilet, barking, running, walking, getting patted, chewing up your shoes, scratching at the door, jumping on your guests, etc., etc.

Then you decide you want to take out all the unwanted stuff. So you take out the chewing up shoes, scratching at the door and jumping on guests.
You still have 24 hours in a day. So what fills in those missing pieces?
Think about it. How does your dog know what to do instead? How do you know it's going to be something beneficial to your relationship and your lifestyle? You don't. In fact, it might make matters worse...
Let's say he has some sort of emotional or physical need for exercise which is not being met. So he goes out into the yard and digs.
You catch him digging and give him a telling off. Then you put chicken wire over the parts of the garden that he likes to dig.
So what does he do instead? Maybe he starts escaping the yard and wandering about the neighbourhood.
You build a higher fence.
Then what does he do instead?

Another scenario... Puppy is teething and needs to chew for relief, it might be from boredom or from the pain of teething.
Pup looks around the room and finds a pair of your shoes, they look chewable! You decide to squirt him with water to punish the chewing. What does he chew instead? How does puppy's need to chew for relief get fulfilled?
The answer, in part, is to become pro-active. Put your shoes away and give pup legal things to chew. It's ok to say 'no' in a neutral tone of voice when pup is chewing the shoe you foolishly left on the floor, but then you need to follow up by swapping your shoe for a pig's ear or chew toy instead.

For the dog who is digging, maybe he needs a longer walk each day? Or maybe you could sign up at a local agility class for some fun activity, socialisation and training all in one?
You see, dogs do what works for them. The trick is to make what works for them work for you too. By being proactive we can channel their needs into activities and behaviours which complement our lifestyle and our needs.

(c) Aidan Bindoff 2006
Aidan Bindoff is Editor of http://www.PositivePetzine.com, a free ezine for people training their own dogs. Each edition has easy to use training advice based on positive reinforcement methods. Subscribers have access to a large archive of back-issues they can consult for just about any behavior or behavior problem.
As Featured On Best Ezines
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aidan_Bindoff

Dog Behavior Training

By Andrew Strachan

As any dog owner will tell you, dogs can be very complex animals and can have very individual personalities. This can manifest itself as bad behavior at times but there is no reason why good behavior training cannot put your dog onto the right path to being the perfect pooch.

Before considering training your dog to improve its behavior, it is important to look into the background of what makes your dog...... a dog.

It is estimated that in the Western world alone, there are probably 800 or so different types of dog breeds. Although it could be said that the difference between some of these breeds is often very little, it is still an amazing concept from a human perspective. Especially when you consider that all modern dogs are believed to have come from one single mating pair of wolves thousands of years ago. Who could imagine that a St.Bernard could be related to a Chihuahua!

Dogs are predatory animals.
Now this doesn't mean that your dog will try and hunt every moving thing but the instinctive desire to hunt is always in them. This behavior is originally why humans and dogs became such close partners in the first place.
Understanding this behavior is the key to successfully training your dog.
Acute hearing enables them to pinpoint potential prey and coupled with their other abilities they can be very successful predatory animals.

The field of vision for a domestic dog is much better than that of humans - 180 to 270 degrees. If you compare this to a human who has a 100 to 150 degree field of vision it's easy to see why a dog can easily track prey.
Let's not forget a dogs amazing sense of smell. A dog is capable of detecting scents 100 million times smaller than that which a human can sense. A Golden Retriever can smell its prey through feet of frozen snow and a foot of frozen earth!
That is why your family dog will often exhibit predatory behavior.

Dogs will exhibit very social behavior.
Although everybody knows that dogs are very sociable animals, it is often overlooked by dog owners. This can lead to problems in the way they behave and can cause disobedience and bad behavior. People will often lock a dog away in a pen or on a leash outside for long periods of time. This isolation can often lead to fear, aggression, over excitement etc. Dogs need companionship in order to maintain healthy behavior.

Prolonged periods devoid of social contact with another dog, human or even a cat will harm the dogs’ personality and ultimately lead to unwanted behavior.

Dogs love to explore.
An adult dog is said to have a similar mental level of a two year old human. Similarly, dogs will learn through exploration of their environment. Unfortunately, what a dog perceives as exploration, you may perceive as chewing the furniture, eating shoes etc.

A quick and effective way to avoid this is to ensure that your dogs’ toys and chews etc are distinctly different from any human toysshoes etc. that may be lying around. Providing rawhide bones as oppose to rubber balls and plastic toys is one option.

Adequate behavior training for your dog will overcome these issues and lead to a better relationship between you both. Your will get a long lasting trusting relationship that you can both enjoy.

Article by Andrew Strachan. Find out more about dog behavior training and types of dogs at http://www.types-of-dogs.com
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What Causes 75% of ALL Dog Behavior Problems?

By Aidan Bindoff

When asked what is the biggest cause of dog behavior problems, most people would guess at lack of training, a 'dominance' problem, or inadequate socialisation. Some might even try to blame the dog's genetics or temperament. Whilst any of these might cause dog behavior problems, a great many dog behavior problems are caused in whole or in part by this one thing - not enough Exercise!

So what are your dog's exercise requirements?
That depends on age, breed and individual. Puppies shouldn't be exercised for more than 20 minutes at a time, but they can be exercised gently quite frequently. Most puppies like to play, which tires them out with or without your help. Be careful not to over-walk puppies, their bones need to mature before they can be walked for long periods. Speak to your vet, but 20 minutes of walking at a time is about right.

Different breeds have different exercise requirements. Working and herding breeds typically have very high exercise requirements. Take the German Shepherd as an example, German Shepherd Dogs are descended from herding dogs who were required to form a "living fence" for their master's flock. This was a 24 hour a day job, which included protection from predators and thieves at night.

Some breeds, whilst they may appear to have high exercise requirements, may not. A Greyhound actually has a fairly low exercise requirement, although they do love to exercise intensely for short bursts.
Other breeds were used in hunting. Breeds such as Beagles and Retrievers would work very hard, but not every day. They tend to be fairly flexible with exercise, so long as they are kept in shape and given regular outlets for their energies.

Individuals within any breed will have greater or lesser requirements for exercise than others of that breed. Sometimes the differences can be fairly extreme, although I have never known a Border Collie that didn't require a lot of exercise! Well, until they got old at least. Older dogs generally require much less exercise.

Nearly every adult dog requires at least 30 minutes walking each day. If you cannot physically provide this for your dog then alternative means for exercise should be arranged. Playing fetch, frisbee or swimming are excellent alternatives. Some dog clubs provide agility classes, which are a great way to train and to exercise your dog - regardless of breed or age.

Some individual dogs have a very high exercise requirement. Typically, trainers or obedience clubs will be presented with a dog who escapes the yard, barks all day, digs in the garden, pulls on the leash, jumps all over people or doesn't come when called. Usually in some sort of combination!

These dogs almost certainly require more exercise than they are getting.
In addition to exercise, training is essential. What's more, 5 minutes training is worth about 15 minutes exercise. "Brain work" will tire a dog out fairly quickly. Combine training with exercise and you have a winning combination. Sports such as Agility, Tracking, Schutzhund or Flyball are all excellent outlets for your dog's boundless energy.

Can you over-exercise a dog? Yes. You can exercise a dog to exhaustion. If you are extremely fit, or your dog is extremely unfit, you can cause injuries, heat-stress and even cause internal organ damage by over-working your dog. If your dog is unfit, consult with your vet before starting a new exercise program with your dog. Start off gently and increase the amount of exercise each week, give your dog time to adjust. In hot weather, scale back and provide plenty of water and rest opportunities.

Please also be aware of any physical limitations your dog may have. Diseases such as Hip Dysplaysia can be hard to detect in the early stages. Some dogs are remarkably adept at hiding injuries if they think the fun will stop. If you suspect your dog has an injury, please end all exercise and immediately seek veterinary help. Early treatment can save weeks of needless pain and hundreds of dollars of vet care.

Aidan Bindoff is Editor of http://www.PositivePetzine.com, your helpful online resource for positive dog training and behavior information.
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Dog Breed Pros and Cons - Behavior and Qualities of Different Dog Breeds

By Sarah Freeland

Before you adopt a new dog into your family, take some time to research the pros and cons of the different breeds to ensure you find a dog that will be the right match for you and your family. We have outlined some of the qualities and problems associated with some common dog breeds to help you find the perfect pet.

German Pinscher
The German Pinscher, also referred to as the Standard Pinscher, is a German breed that has been around since 1879. This breed nearly went extinct before World War II. Fortunately a man named Herr Werner Jung brought the breed back. Today all German Pinschers descend from one “founding mother.”

This is a smaller dog that only stands between 17 and 20 pounds and weighs between 23 and 35 pounds. They have a short, glossy and smooth coat that comes in solid colors that range between fawn and stag red. This dog is a good natured dog that is equally as suitable as a family dog or a watch dog.

Irish Setter
The Irish Setter, also referred to as the Red Setter, is an Irish breed. This breed was created by the crossing of setters, spaniels, and pointers that naturally had red and white coats. The characteristic chestnut red coat that we now associated with the breed didn’t appear until the 19th century. Today this breed is a favorite at dog shows, in the field, and in homes.

The Irish Setter stands between 25 and 27 inches tall and weighs between 60 and 70 pounds. They have a combination coat that is short and close on their heads and on their front legs, and long feathery hair on the rest of their body. The only color that is accepted for this breed today is the rich chestnut red color. However, you can occasionally Irish Setters with traces of black and white in their coat as well.

Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound, also called the Piccolo Levrieve Italiani, is a toy breed that originated in Italy. It is a sight hound that was bred to be a companion. Today this little dog is exclusively used as a pet.

The Italian Greyhound is a small dog that only stands between 13 and 15 inches and it weighs around 8 pounds. It has a short close coat that is glossy. It can typically be found in shades of blue, fawn, white, black, cream and white. This breed is better suited for homes with older kids. They also get along with other dogs. Some Italian Greyhounds get along with cats, while others don’t. You will want to take this into consideration if you are shopping for a new pet and have an Italian Greyhound, or if you have a cat and are considering getting an Italian Greyhound.

Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres, also referred to as the Belgian Cattle Dog, is a Belgium cattle driving dog. It looks a lot like a giant Scottish Terrier. It stands between 23 and 27 inches tall and weighs between 59.5 and 88 pounds. It has a thick coarse outercoat and a soft undercoat. It traditionally comes in black, brindle, and fawn coat colors.

To care for this breed you will want to brush its coat every week. This is a must with this breed as their long coat mats easily. You will also need to brush their teeth, clean their ears, and trim their nails on a regular basis. This breed needs a lot of exercise, however, low impact exercise is preferable as their heavy build is not designed to handle extended running or jogging. Some of the health problems that you should keep an eye open for include hip problems, joint problems, bloat, and eye conditions.

Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is a Scottish terrier that has been a favorite of British royalty. They are a small breed that only stands between 9 and 10 inches tall and they weigh between 19 and 23 pounds. They have a long, flat outercoat that comes in shades of black, gray, cream, and fawn with black points on their ears and on their muzzles. This dog is active and loyal. They are not the best breed to have when you have young children as they can be a bit snappy when teased. They also prefer to be the only pet in a household.

Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a Canadian breed that is thought to have been developed by fishermen in Greenland. The Labrador Retriever is now classified as a sporting dog in the gundog class. This dog makes a great family pet, a great guide dog for the blind, a great drug search dog, and a great sporting dog.

The Labrador Retriever comes in three color variations, chocolate, black, and yellow. The current trend is for the Chocolate Lab, however, the Black and Yellow Labs are also popular. The males of this breed are slightly larger than the females. They stand between 22.5 and 24.5 inches tall and weigh between 60 and 75 pounds, and the females stand between 21.5 and 23.5 inches tall and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds.

Poodle
The Poodle, also called the Barbone and Caniche, is a French breed that belongs to the non-sporting group. The standard Poodle is a tall dog that stands between 22 and 27 inches tall and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. Their coat is short to medium and very curly or frizzy. They come in a variety of solid colors including black, white, silver and chocolate. This breed has a couple of health concerns that you should be aware of including stifle problems and hip dysplasia.

Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier, also called the American Toy Terrier and the AmerToy, is an English breed. They are a tiny little dog that stands about 10 inches tall and that weighs between 3.5 and 7 pounds. They have a short shiny coat that is predominantly white with black and/or tan markings. They are a scrappy little dog that is not afraid of anything. If you have very small kids you should wait until they are older to add this little dog to your family as they can’t withstand rough handling.

Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel, also referred to as the Gentleman’s Gun Dog, is a British hunting breed. Their heritage either descends from Alpine Spaniel bloodlines or from Basset Hound bloodlines. No one is quite sure.

The Clumber Spaniel is a sweet dog that makes a great family dog, however, they also make responsive and obedient field sporting dogs as well. This breed is a medium sized dog that stands between 19 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 65 and 80 pounds. They have a thick coat that is silky and flat. This base coat is accented with feathering on their tail, around their eyes, on their stomachs, and on their legs. They come in a variety of colors, however, the preferred coat color combination is white with lemon. Orange and freckling on the muzzle are also common.

Before you adopt a new dog into your family, take some time to research the pros and cons of the different breeds to ensure you find a dog that will be the right match for you and your family. We have outlined some of the qualities and problems associated with some common dog breeds to help you find the perfect pet.
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