Dogs are smart. If you share your life with a dog, you know exactly how true this can be. They are curious, playful, and sometimes a little hyper. They want nothing more than to please you and be by your side as much as possible. But the untrained dog can end up putting a strain on your relationship. He can be destructive, dangerous around children and the elderly, or just too excitable to handle. This is where dog training in Lafayette can make a difference in how you and your family interact with the dog.
Determining Stress Levels
Dogs learn best when they are unstressed and focused. Finding a dog’s stress limit means the trainer needs to first establish a relationship and level of trust with the dog and then introduce him to a new environment to see how he handles the changes. Some dogs are extremely curious and want to explore new areas, while others are much more reserved and can be timid in new locations. During this time the trainer can start to help the dog learn the basics and certain boundaries for discipline. Additionally, playtime and learning how to play properly is important as well.
Building a Foundation
Once a relationship has been established between the trainer and the dog, it’s time to start building the initial foundation of training and obedience. Some of the very first basics a dog should learn are sit, stay, come and heel. Not only are these nice for a dog to know when he is around several people, but it can help keep him safe in case he gets out of his fenced yard or you drop the leash during a walk. There is no perfect age range for dogs to start learning the basics, and even young puppies as well as senior canines can pick it up quickly.
Attempting the Advanced Lessons
Distractions are the hardest part to work through with some dogs, so advanced training lessons can include focusing on the trainer with distractions, sitting and staying during distractions, and more. Distractions can be anything from other dogs playing in the area to a squeaky toy to food temptations. The goal is to help the dog learn to keep his focus on the trainer and wait for the command or request he is given before he makes any actions. Once your dog has mastered this, he will be an excellent and even more loved obedient member of your family.
