Pets play a very important role in humans’ life. They share their tender feelings and cover our loneliness. Dogs are known for their faithfulness. Our lifestyle also has changed, people’s preferences also changed. In their busy schedule they don’t have time to meet family, friends and relatives. Pets fill this emptiness by sharing love and affections.
But some people are fond of keeping pets. We keep different kinds of pets like cats, birds, fish, rabbits, etc. but most of the population of the world like to keep dog as a pet. But they create mess in our life if dogs are not properly trained. It very important to train puppies at home by giving them puppy training commands regularly at early stages. So that dogs can understanding the language of the owner. There are a number of training centers around the globe but basic dog training should be start at home.
In this article will learn how to teach dogs at home with some very simple method. Let’s explore dog training for beginners.
How to Train your Dogs Sit, Stay and Come?
Dog training for beginners can be a difficult procedure it is necessary. Training your dog to sit, stay and come improves the behavioral problems and also keep your dog safe. There are many methods to teach behavioral commands. Follow these simple steps and make your pet dog more obedient and well behaved.
- Understanding Canine Learning: The Basics of Dog Training
To explain animal behavior, psychologists and ethologists adopt a variety of ideas, and it is very important to know how dogs learn before implementing any techniques:
- Classical Conditioning
This is the “Pavlov’s dog” theory. Dogs learn to associate a stimulus (like a word or hand signal) with a behavior or reward.
- Operant Conditioning
Dogs learn based on consequences. Behaviors followed by rewards are more likely to be repeated.
- Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding your dog for good behavior (treats, praise, play) makes them want to do it again.
Beware: Punishing during training destroys trust and affects learning.
Step-by-Step guide: How to Train a Dog to follow word "Sit"
You can train your dog at home because it is not only save money but also establish a strong emotional bond with your dog.
Step 1:
- Set the Environment for training
- Choose a peaceful area, distraction-free location.
Offer your dog treats which he loves the most, but that should be small and quick to eat.
Step-2:
- Lure into a Sitting Position
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Your hand should gently move up and back over their head.
- Their bottom should automatically drop into a sit as their head follows the treat.
- The moment they sit, say “Sit” and give the treat.
Step 3:
- Repeat and Associate the Word
- Add the word “Sit” right before you expect the behavior.
- Practice for two to three hours every day.
Step 4:
- Practice Without Treat Lure
- When a few days have passed, stop tempting with the treat.
- When you say “Sit,” make a hand indication, like raising your hand.
- Give them a reward only after they give the right answer.
Detailed Guide: How to Train your Dog "Stay"
Prerequisite: “Sit” should be a familiar word to your dog.
Step 1:
- Introduce the Idea to your pet
Command “Sit” to your pet. - Open your palm in their direction (the universal “stay” hand signal).
- Say “Stay” firmly and clearly.
- After one or two seconds, if they don’t move, reward them.
- You should end the command with a release word like “Okay” or “Free.”
Step 2:
- Increase Duration
- Increase the time frame gradually (5, 10, 30 seconds, etc.).
- Always give a reward and let them go, before they break the position.
- If they move early, say “No” quietly, reset them, and start this procedure again, if they move quickly.
Step 3:
- Introduce the concept of “Distance” to the pets.
- You should step back when pets are in a “Stay position”.
- Gradually increase the distance.
- Reward if they remain in the stay position until they are released.
Step 4:
- Add the concept of “Distractions”
- Try rehearsing in a park, backyard, or close to other people.
- As they get better, gradually raise the level of distraction.
How to Teach Your Dog to “Come” When they Called
Step 1:
- Speak in a cheerful and exciting tone.
- First, call your dog’s name to get their attention, then use word “Come” in a joyful and happy tone. Dogs like to respond positive tone.
Example: Buddy, “Come”!
Step 2:
- Provide an instant reward.
- Give your dog lots of praise, food, affection, or a favourite toy as soon as they approach you. They learn from this that “come” brings wonderful things.
Pro tip: Especially in the beginning of training, use high-value snacks (such as tiny pieces of cheese or cooked chicken).
- Practice Regular in Short Sessions: Practice multiple times throughout the day and keep training sessions brief (5–10 minutes). Your dog will learn more quickly if you practice.
- Add Distractions and Distance Slowly: Practice with distractions like toys, people, or other dogs, and gradually increase the distance until your dog consistently approaches you in quiet environments.
- Never Use “Come” for Negative Experiences: Do not call your dog to stop playing, clip their nails, or reprimand them. You want “come” to exclusively be connected to good things.
