JANUARY: NATIONAL TRAIN YOUR DOG MONTH

As a retired dog trainer, the most satisfying part of a training program is watching the bond develop between a handler and a dog. My course was one class a week for 6-8 weeks with 20 minutes of homework daily. This is similar to classes that offer the AKC Canine Good Citizen award, a worthy goal that opens the door to additional progressive training.

What I noticed. Many people showed up on the first day of class but several dropped out along the way. They did not want to put in the time with their pet outside of class. The difference here showed almost immediately.

This is not rocket science. It is patient, firm, repetitive, and rewarding work with your pet for a relatively short time considering most pets live 10+ years. The level of trust and the bond between the dog and his or her handler grows exponentially over a brief period. By the end of class, the two are a working unit, unlike when they began. It is gratifying, but why go through the trouble of training a dog in the first place?

ORGINALLY WRITTEN 01.25.2022

SELFIE OF 2 CUTE HAVANESE CHAMPION DASH AND HIS HOOMAN DURING THEIR WALK

DID YOU KNOW? A MAJORITY OF DOGS SURRENDERED TO ANIMAL SHELTERS ARE UNTRAINED.
 
Story Time: 
Last week, while I was wrapping up a routine check-up at the vet’s, there was a serious problem.. Two owners, each waiting their appointed time struggled to control their dogs. They exhibited aggressive behavior such as snarling and posturing. These were not little dogs either. Luckily, before an accident could happen reinforcements arrived in the form of our amazing vet techs. 

Basic Training Includes:

• Sit
• Stay
• Leave It
• Come
• Down

Training is part of responsible ownership, and a fundamental part of having dogs in our society as well-behaving members. Civility is simply a question of a dog behaving well when it meets another dog, person, or behaving well in an unfamiliar environment and responding on command. Basic obedience is critical to ensuring the safety of all, especially with the growing canine population. 

A core component of training is socialization. Training is rewarded and reinforced with treats along the way to make it a positive experience for the dog. Good behavior is further encouraged when the proud handler praises the dog. A skittish, shy, or aggressive animal can be rehabilitated with rewards and praise to become more comfortable and confident. An owner can confidently enjoy their pet outside of the home and enriched their relationship through training.

Basic training can offer other avenues and levels to pursue, but it begins with simply passing the Canine Good Citizen course. AKC events are a lot of fun such as agility. Mostly just having a well-mannered dog is very comfortable and a basic course is not strenuous. The benefits for all are worthwhile and last a lifetime.