Effective Crate Training -- An Essential Step

House training your dog is one of the most difficult things you can do. Now that you have chosen a training method, it's important to address this specific area of dog training as well. Taking advantage of crate training is essential, as it can be effective way to train.

There is a lot that goes into choosing a crate. You have to be mindful of the size of your dog, and the size the dog will grow into if it is a puppy. Also, choose from the different materials that are available so your dog is as comfy as possible.

Put the crate somewhere where your dog can feel peaceful and happy. Make it very comfortable, so as not to intimidate the dog and make him feel anxious in his crate. You want only positive associations with the crate!

There are different situations where you will want to put your dog in his crate. If there is ever a time where you think your dog will get into something he is not supposed to, or you want to be sure he is extra safe, you can put him in the crate. Your dog will actually come to appreciate being in the crate, because he'll feel safe. You will appreciate the crate because you know your dog is safe, and that the items in your house are also safe!

The crate is very effective for house training (which is probably why you're interested in it!). The reason for this is because dogs do not like to go to the bathroom where they sleep. Since the crate will not allow them to leave, they will hold it until they are in a place with they are supposed to go to the bathroom.

It is important that you are very mindful of letting your dog use the bathroom often enough. This is especially true when they're the newest of puppies, as the bladder control is not the best!

If you want this method to be as effective as possible, you need to help your puppy develop good feelings about the crate. Toys, comfortable pillows, and food are positive items place in there. Your dog will learn that good things happen in the crate, and that is a safe and happy place to be.

If you have a puppy, it's an especially a good idea to start crate training as soon as possible. It will help you with your potty training efforts, and it will help to keep your dog safe and secure since you can't be there every second of the day. It will take some getting used to for your dog, but the efforts are well worth the positive results.

Common Commands to Teach Your Dog

Now comes the fun part! After you have worked on dog training methods, obedience training, and aggression control, it's time to train your dog with commands. When your dog is a puppy, he'll be ready to use some basic commands -- which is very exciting!

"Come" is one of the most common commands. You'll want your dog to come when you call him for a variety of different reasons. There are many different things you can do to make this more effective. For example, give your dog a reason to come; such as receiving a tasty treat. When your dog does walk towards you, be sure to praise him soon so he knows he has done something good. This will mean he'll be more likely to repeat the action in the future.

Many people also wish to teach the dog how to sit. Again, this is useful in a variety of situations, so it is essential to know. An easy way to do this is to ensure that you always say the words with the actual action. When your dog sits down, say the word "sit." You can also hold a treat over your dog's head and move it back -- he will naturally sit down -- and give the "sit" command.

In addition to teaching your dog how to sit, you also want your dog to be able to stay. This is essential to help your dog avoid dangerous situations, or to simply obey your commands for a variety of different reasons.

You'll also want your dog to be able to lie down. This can be a difficult thing to train, so be sure you're using the best methods. You have to repeat this method over and over again so your dog is able to learn what to do each time.

Yet another common dog training technique is to heel. This is usually used to ensure that your dog walks right beside you. It is especially helpful for puppies whose instinct is to run freely. Eventually, your dog should be able to follow you no matter which direction you go in.

Clearly, there are several different commands you will want your dog to learn. It is your job as your dog's owner to teach them these things. It's not just for your benefit, there are benefits for him as well. It will help to ensure that your dog stays happy and realizes who is the boss.

Understanding Your Dog's Body Language

It can be strange to think about understanding your dog's body language. However, it is important to understand that your dog communicates with more than just his bark! Learning what it means when your dog does certain things can be helpful no matter what training technique you choose to employ.

The first thing you should realize is that many dogs speak with their eyes. You can communicate a lot with your dog just with your eyes! This includes facial expressions, and you'll be surprised as to how much information you can gain, and how much information you can transmit, just by using your eyes and making eye contact.

Do keep in mind that in certain situations this type of eye contact may be read as being hostile. This can lead to aggressive behavior with your dog -- which leads to them having other problems. This is one great reason why it's important to study as much about your dog's body language (and how to use your own body language to communicate with your dog) as possible.

Realize that when dogs are in wild packs these signals are used to communicate with one another. Dogs try to do this with you as well. It is our fault as humans that we often do not recognize this, and the signals go ignored. Examples of signals might include yawning, sniffing, freezing, licking, turning their head, and other signals.

If you choose to recognize what these different signals mean, your relationship with your dog will be greatly enhanced. You'll be able to communicate effectively and meet your dogs needs and wants. Your dog might become frustrated if you cannot understand what the signals mean; which can inhibit your training progress. No matter what type of training you plan on doing, you need to be sure you know as much as possible about your dog's body language.

You also need to pay attention to your own body language. Do not act timid or out of control in any way. Dogs can read this, and it may cause some to try and establish their role as the alpha. This can lead to clashes in interest, and can prevent you and your dog from having a close relationship.

As helpful as reading your dog's body language is, it is surprising how few dog owners actually know anything about it. By taking steps toward understanding body language, you're well on your way to effectively communicating with your dog, and developing a long-lasting relationship.

Dealing With Doggie Anxiety

In addition to learning how to use many different commands, it's important to realize that your dog might become anxious in specific situations. This dog anxiety can impair the dog's ability to lead a happy life, and it can hinder training.

Some dogs have separation anxiety. They do not like to be apart from their owner. When you are gone, they will participate in destructive behavior. Realize that dogs like to be with other dogs, or people, and do not like to be alone.

Of course, it is not realistic that you are by your dog's side 24 hours a day. It is your goal to make your dog realize that even though you are leaving, you are coming back. Leave and come back very quickly to help your dog used to this. That means standing just outside the door and returning right away. Gradually, you can increase the length of time you are gone until your dog is no longer anxious.

Another tip is to not make a huge deal when you leave. If you take forever petting the dog and cooing over the dog, he will just be more upset when you go. He needs to realize that it is not a huge deal when you leave, because you will be returning. This can be difficult for you to do, especially if you miss your dog, but it is absolutely essential for both of your sake's.

Other dogs might be anxious around certain other dogs or people. There is no simple method to deal with this, as the different circumstances require different methods. No matter what, it is your goal to make sure your dog feels safe and secure, and that you are by his side so there is nothing to fear.

If you are noticing severe dog anxiety problems, you will want to take your dog to his vet. They might be able to diagnose some underlying issue that you are not seeing. Otherwise, it is a matter of staying on top of it and helping your dog feel as safe and secure as possible. Focus on your exact issue and educate yourself enough to help your dog become less anxious.

This is yet another reminder that your dog is emotionally complex. It is not always easy for you as a dog owner, but it is absolutely necessary for the dog you love.

How to Deal With Dog Aggression Problems

Up to this point, you have discovered some of the basics of dog training. However, it can be difficult to fathom focusing on training your dog to do tricks if your dog has aggression problems! This is very unfortunate, but it's natural for some dogs. It's up to you to teach your dog that this aggression is not placed correctly in your home.

The first thing you need to do is understand why this aggression occurs. Firstly, this behavior can be common for certain types of dogs out in the wild. It can be difficult to get rid of these inborn habits. Another reason is because the dog might feel territorial. He wants to keep what is his -- his. Another issue might be that he is unfamiliar with his surroundings, and is skittish about them.

You may think you're in the clear if your dog doesn't have these symptoms, but it happens that some dogs develop aggression later on. Keep your eye out for behaviors that might be considered aggressive to see if they build. If your dog's demeanor changes, then aggression might develop.

Your dog may feel like he rules the roost, so you need to ensure that the dog realizes you are in command, and you are the authority. It's important to never back down and never treat the dog like he is the ruler.

Other dogs are beyond these beginning stages -- which can be quite serious. He might attack or hurt someone, so this needs to be dealt with right away. You can hire a dog trainer, or choose to get rid of the dog if this becomes an issue -- especially if you have young children in the house.

At the same time, it's important not to give up on your dog if you feel like there is hope. Keep on top of things and educate yourself as much as possible. Keep your dog fit and healthy, and consider how things are affecting your dog. Beyond that, examine specific requirements that your particular breed of dog has.

Just be sure not to abuse your dog or try to fight back. This will just cause the problems to escalate, and is not healthy for you or the dog. It is all about finding effective methods, and maintaining your cool in establishing your role as the leader.

Having a dog with aggression problems, or something you think might become aggression, can be incredibly difficult. With some patience and some quality education, you're sure to beat this problem so that you have a loving dog in your household.

Advanced Commands to Teach Your Dog

You've made it! Now that you have taught your dog some basic commands, and have dealt with some common dog issues, it's time to try the more advanced commands. It's important to understand that your dog may not be ready for more advanced commands. Dogs don't always work on a schedule, so focus on your dog's individual needs before moving on.

Some of the more advanced commands are just continuations of simpler commands. For example, you can have your dog sit and stay for longer periods of time now that they are ready. If you have been successfully using training techniques up to this point, this should not be an issue for you at all.

Your dog can also be taught to seek, fetch, roll over, catch, shake, crawl, climb, jump, and many more. There is nothing more fun than having a dog who is well trained and can do all of these things! Not only will people be incredibly impressed when they notice how well behaved and smart your dog is, but it will help keep you and your dog happier as well. That's not even to mention the issue of safety. Being able to follow your commands will help to ensure that your dog stays as safe as possible.

If you have been successful with some of the earlier techniques, there is no reason why you can't be successful with these more advanced commands. Your dog is now used to being trained by you, so there should be no issues. Still, there are times when you are not sure what to do, or you reach a point where you're just a standstill. When this happens, it's time to further your education and watch demonstrations of other people training their dogs with advanced techniques.

In the past, you would have had to hire an expensive trainer to give your dog the best education possible. These days, there are several courses on the market that can turn you into an expert as well. Training your pet on your own can be a great challenge for you, and it can bring you closer to your pet than you have ever been before.

Focus on advanced commands, and your dog will be more obedient than you ever thought possible. Your bond will deepen, and you'll feel incredibly connected with your pet. There are few things better than having a dog who adores you, and who is able to follow your directions, no matter how complex they get!