How Obedience Training Strengthens Your Bond With Your Dog

Dog obedience training gives you a better-behaved and safer pup. That makes your time together sweeter.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 88.8% of dog owners consider their pets part of the family. There's a simple way to make that connection even deeper.

Read on to learn how dog obedience training can enhance your bond with your dog.

Why Bonding With Your Dog Matters

Bringing in a dog is similar to bringing in any new family member. It's a chance for love and connection, but it also puts a burden on you as a caregiver. According to ASPCA Pet Insurance, the financial burden can reach approximately $1,000 per year.

Bonding with your dog makes it less overwhelming. Failing to create that bond can create resentment and stress when they misbehave.

What Is Obedience Training for Dogs?

Dog obedience training is focused on teaching a dog to follow commands. A few of the most common that owners may use include:

• Sit
• Stay
• Come
• Heel
• Leave it

When dogs follow the command, they're met with positive reinforcement, such as a treat or affection.

The training isn't only about teaching a dog how to act. When it's done well, it can increase the bond between pet and owner.

Benefits of Dog Obedience Training

Dog training benefits go beyond improved behavior. You'll have a closer bond with your pet because they'll be more pleasant and safer to be around.

Enhanced Bonds

The more you train your dog, the better your bond will be. 

You'll start to trust each other, and trust is the foundation for any relationship. You'll also get closer during every training session.

Better Dog Behavior

Obedience training can help you work to improve problematic dog behavior, such as:

• Excessive barking
• Urination
• Chewing
• Reactivity to humans or other dogs

It works now and in the future. Basic commands are the starting point. You can also learn more advanced obedience training techniques, such as gentle leash walking.

This can also help you connect with your pet. You can enjoy your time with your dog instead of constantly worrying about or correcting their misbehavior.

Mental Stimulation

Dogs were bred to work, but it's not only their bodies that need to keep moving. Their minds are also surprisingly sharp.

Training sessions provide mental stimulation. That keeps them from acting out of boredom. It can also be a fun and stimulating time for you.

Improved Safety

Training isn't only about strengthening pet relationships. It's also about keeping your dog safe on the streets.

Biting or barking behaviors can make your dog dangerous to take out on walks. Training them out keeps the neighborhood safe while making your trips more enjoyable.

How Do You Train a Dog to Be Obedient?

Developing a bond with your dog is the first step in training. Once you understand their cues, you can use the right techniques to improve their behavior. 

Learn Your Dog's Body Language

Dogs use body language as much as humans, if not more so. Learning about it is the first step to building a bond and being successful at training.

Start with the ears. A confident dog has them up, but stress can cause them to turn to the side.

Look at their head next. A confident dog will keep it up, while a frightened dog will lower it.

Everyone knows a wagging tail means excitement, but if it's between their legs, they're trying to express fear and stress.

Set a Schedule

Dogs thrive on routine. They like to know what's happening next and when.

Work training into your daily routine. Pick a time of the day to train and stick to it.

Frequent, shorter sessions are better than fewer, longer ones. You and your dog can end up getting frustrated if they go on too long.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Dogs don't respond well to punishment for misbehavior, such as yelling or being sprayed with a water bottle. Training goes best with positive reinforcement. Provide a reward when they display the right behaviors.

Find out what motivates your dog best. Is there a treat they can't resist? Do they always follow the tennis balls you throw? Go for whatever works for them.

It also helps to use a cue to tell the dog that the reward is coming. Clicker training uses a device that makes a small click sound before you deliver the reward. It makes the training stick more effectively.

Try a Training Academy

You don't have to take on dog obedience training alone. Go to an experienced, reputable academy like OverWatch K9 Academy. 

FAQ

What Is the Best Age for Obedience Training?

Start obedience training as early as you possibly can. It'll help you build a bond with your dog from the beginning and nurture it throughout their lifetime. You can also nip problem behaviors in the bud before they become habits.

Once your new puppy has settled in, start obedience training with them. Young dogs are receptive learners, so try to begin as early as 7-8 weeks. The first 16 weeks are the most crucial learning periods.

While it's important to start early, remember that you can teach an old dog new tricks. Adult dogs can learn with the right training techniques, but be ready to weed out problem behaviors.

What Is the Hardest Age to Train a Dog?

The most difficult period for training is six to eighteen months. This age period is the equivalent of dog adolescence. It varies by breed and lasts longer with larger dogs.

They're beginning to experience various hormonal changes, just like human teenagers. It can make them unruly. They may be unwilling to accept commands. Training them at this period is possible, but you may need professional help.

What Gender of Dog is More Obedient?

Female dogs have an easier time with obedience training. They're calmer and more receptive. 

Certain breeds are known for being intelligent and trainable. A few examples include:

• Australian Shepherds
• Poodles
• German Shepherds

Personality is a major factor. Look for a dog that's confident. They should also be eager to please you.

Where to Find More Dog Owner Tips

Dog obedience training keeps your neighborhood safe, your dog happy, and strengthens your bond with them.

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