Training: News, Articles and Guides for your pets

Puppy Training 101: Your Guide to Mastering Basic Puppy Training

Victoria Schade — Tue, 16 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

You just brought home a new puppy. What an exciting time!

There’s so much to teach your new best friend, and while puppy training might seem a little overwhelming at first (hello, potty training!), the good news is you have an eager student at the end of the leash. Puppies are ready and willing to start learning good manners as soon as you bring them home, so the best time to start training puppy obedience is now.

It’s important to note that all of your interactions with your puppy are potential lessons; everything from the way you greet them (are you allowing them to jump up on your legs?) to how you walk them on leash (are you following while they drag you along?) will teach your puppy what is and isn’t acceptable behavior.

Ready to get started? Our guide will walk you through everything you need to know about basic puppy training.

Click the buttons to jump to each section:

Puppy Training Tips

Puppy Training Milestones

Puppy Crate Training

Puppy Potty Training

How to Teach a Puppy to Sit

How to Teach a Puppy to Come When Called

Puppy Training FAQ

The Best Way to Train a Puppy

Pups as young as 8 weeks old have the capacity to learn the basics, but remember: The younger the pup, the shorter the attention span. Puppy training lessons should be short, fun and supplemented with many opportunities for play.

The best way to train a puppy is to conduct lessons when they are well-rested. Make sure they are ready to go but not too excited, as it might be tougher for them to focus. Before you begin, take your pup outside for a potty trip, and make sure to take them out right after you finish as well.

You’ll need a pocket full of high-value puppy treats. Puppy training requires lots of rewards, so opt for something like Wellness Soft Puppy Bites, which are small but also tasty enough to keep your puppy engaged in the training game.

Basic training lessons should take place in a familiar, distraction-free environment. You and your puppy will eventually transition to working outside and in new spaces, but the training initial stages should be happening in a low-key spot so that it’s easy for your pup to focus on you.

It’s also helpful to have a few puppy toys ready to go so you and your puppy can take play breaks. A tug toy or ball for fetching are great options that allow your dog to burn through some puppy excitement before it’s time to focus again. If you're looking for a budget friendly bundle with both treats and toys, a Puppy Goody Box is a great way to get all the basics.

Puppy Training Tips for Success

Make sure your puppy is well-rested and not too revved up.
Take a potty break before starting.
Come prepared with lots of yummy treats.
Find a familiar, quiet place to practice.
Keep lessons short and sweet.

Puppy Training Milestones by Age

Eight to Ten Weeks

Congrats — you probably just welcomed your new puppy into their forever home! Your primary puppy training tips at this stage center around helping them acclimate to a new environment and starting them off on the right paw when it comes to manners. Your guide to puppy training begins with the following steps:

Set up a daily schedule: Dogs thrive when they know what happens next, so map out a schedule that includes your pup’s meals, potty trips, play times, training lessons, naps times in the crate and end of day wind down. (It might help to keep notes!)
Focus on crate and potty training: Remember, when you teach your dog crate training you’re also working on house training at the same time. Your most important goals at this stage are helping your pup learn that the crate is a happy place, and that they get paid with a small treat immediately after they potty outside. (We'll get you started with guides to crate and potty training below!)
Begin socialization: A well-socialized dog is a happy and confident dog, so enroll your pup in a an accredited class and work on those social skills in a controlled environment.
Work on alone time: While it’s tempting to spend every second with your puppy, it’s important that they learn how to be comfortable when left alone. Once your puppy is confident and happy in their crate thanks to your introductory crate training, practice brief departures (this should be no more than 3-4 hours for puppies 6 months or younger), either leaving your home entirely or just moving to another room so you are out of your puppy’s sight.
Introduce the leash: Your puppy is going to have a lifelong relationship with a dog leash, so get them acclimated to the sensation of wearing it before going for walks. Clip on a light leash and let them drag it through the house, then get them used to walking on it without pulling. The goal is to always have a gentle curve in the leash.
Teach “sit”: One of the earliest obedience training lesson for a puppy to master is the basic “sit” cue. Begin by teaching it in a low-distraction environment, then work on it in a variety of locations. This lesson is the first step in learning impulse control since you can ask your pup to “sit” before giving them things they want, like their food bowl or a toy. Find out how to teach this essential skill below.

Ten to Twelve Weeks

Socialization: Continue your pup’s exposure to the world by welcoming new friends into your home to meet them and taking them on brief outings in areas where dogs typically aren’t found, like the bank or dry cleaner (if dogs are allowed). Don’t forget to bring treats with you!
Mouthing and chew toys: At this stage your puppy will want to put their mouth (and sharp teeth!) on everything, so help them focus on appropriate chewing outlets other than your skin. Provide your puppy with a variety of heavy duty treat-stuffable toys like the KONG Puppy dog toy. (Plush toys aren’t appropriate for teething toys.) You should also help your puppy inhibit the force of their bite by using the “ouch” technique when they chomp on you. Find out more about training a puppy not to bite.
Body handling: You’ll have to perform a variety of caretaking procedures on your dog throughout their life so it’s vital that they are comfortable with all sorts of handling. (Your vet will thank you too!) In short, during individual sessions pair treats with gentle handling to help your dog feel comfortable with manipulation of their ears, mouth, paws and tail. Once your puppy is okay with handling, begin introducing the tools you’ll need to use, like a toothbrush, nail clippers and a comb.
Alone Time: Continue your pup’s alone-time training by leaving your house or removing yourself to another room out of your dog’s eyesight for longer periods of time (again, no more than 3-4 hours at this age). Give your dog a treat-stuffed busy toy to keep them happily occupied while on their own in the crate.
“Say please” training: One of the best training tips for puppies is teaching them to say “please” when they wants something. This simple foundation-level impulse control lesson can be used throughout your dog’s life. All you have to do is ask your puppy to sit when they want something, like access to outdoors or a toy.
Basic commands: Begin working on training cues like coming when called, down and brief stays with positive reinforcement training. Keep your puppy’s lessons short and upbeat so they remain interested in their lessons.

Three to Four Months

Post-vaccine socialization: Once your puppy has completed their vaccination series, you can begin taking them to more populated locations. As always, make sure that your puppy sets the pace for exploration and meeting new friends, and don’t force them into scenarios where they seem uncomfortable. (Your puppy is still too young and impressionable to visit the neighborhood dog park at this stage.)
Leash training: Your pup is starting to get bigger and stronger at this point so continue to focus on polite leash walking. Unless you plan to show your dog in competitions, they don’t need to learn to walk in perfect heel position—it’s an unnatural behavior that doesn’t allow them to explore the environment. But on the flipside, your puppy shouldn’t be allowed to pull while on leash. Learn how to leash train your puppy here. And to help you keep up a consistent walking schedule, download our Puppy Walking Schedule printable.
Build on training behaviors: Introduce your foundation training behaviors in new and more distracting environments. Work on recall (aka coming when called) outside and increase the duration of time your puppy can obey the stay cue.
Find a dog trainer: At this stage, your puppy will likely have finished up with puppy socialization classes, so look for a positive reinforcement trainer to continue refining the lessons learned in puppy class and at home with you.

Four to Six Months

Leash manners: Continue refining your puppy’s leash manners in a variety of public spaces so that they know how to walk politely no matter the environment or level of distractions.
Continuing education: Your puppy might have finished their basic training course at this point but that doesn’t mean training is done! Continue working on the behavior you learned in class together every day, and consider signing up for advanced training.
Don’t forget the treats: Your dog will probably have a good grasp of basic training behaviors but that doesn’t mean you should get rid of the treats! You should reward your puppy for a job well done as they grow, but you can also start incorporating alternate rewards like play.

Crate Training a Puppy

Teaching your puppy to love their crate is one of the most important early lessons they’ll learn in their new home. Dog crates tap into canine denning instincts (aka their urge to seek out cave-like spaces), and since dogs rarely soil where they sleep, the crate will help speed the potty training process.

Set up your dog crate properly.

Choosing the right dog crate for your puppy is critical.
The size should be big enough so that your puppy can stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably but not so big that they can potty in one corner and sleep in the other.
Keep the crate in a common room in your house, not the basement or garage, so your puppy doesn’t view going into the crate as banishment.

Use puppy treats.

To begin crate training your puppy, introduce the crate by leaving the door open and putting treats inside for your puppy to discover.
Let your dog examine the crate without shutting the door and give them a few more treats for remaining inside.
Continue this introductory process in a few short sessions until your puppy goes into their crate without hesitating.

Feed meals in the dog crate.

Once your puppy is happily going into the crate, begin to feed meals inside of it. Close the door while your puppy eats, then wait a few minutes after they finish before you open the door. (Don’t forget to take them right outside for a potty break!)

Try interactive dog toys.

Another way to speed the acclimation process is to leave the crate door open and use a sturdy rope that your puppy can’t destroy to tie a puppy-safe interactive toys inside the crate.
Giving your pup a treat-stuffed activity toy like the KONG Puppy Toy inside will help your dog learn that good things happen in the crate!
Over time, work up to giving your puppy a busy toy in the crate and shutting the door for 15 minutes.
Stay close to where your dog is crated initially, but gradually work up to leaving your dog alone while they’re crated.
Gradually add more duration to your dog’s crated periods until they’re happy to hang out inside while you’re not around.

Don't over-crate.

Remember that over-crating your puppy can backfire and cause your puppy to soil it, which will derail your progress.
You can calculate your puppy’s safe “hold time” by translating their age in months to hours; this means that a 10-week old puppy can be crated for roughly two hours and possibly a little longer at night.

Need more crate training tips? Take a look at our complete guide for crate training puppies here.

Get Started With These Crate Training Essentials:

How to Potty Train a Puppy

The first thing most puppy parents want their new pup to learn is where to potty. And while the crate is an invaluable tool for the potty training process, there’s more to it! Helping your dog learn to potty outside requires supervision, good timing and patience.

Maintain a routine.

It helps to keep your puppy on a daily schedule that includes mealtimes, potty trips, playtime and crating.
Dogs crave predictability, so sticking to a schedule that includes everything from meals to play sessions will help your puppy anticipate what happens next.
Your pup’s daily schedule should include potty trips outside about 10–15 minutes after meals, potty trips after play sessions (and for young pups, during play sessions), after meeting new friends, after waking from a nap, and before and after crating.

Download our Puppy Potty Training Chart.

Supervision is key during potty training.

Accidents can happen when pups wander around the house unattended, so plan to crate your puppy when you can’t watch them and use pet gates when you hang out together inside.
You can slowly begin to give your puppy more household access once they’re regularly alerting you when they need to go out and they’ve been accident-free for at least a month.
(Keep in mind that it can take your dog up to six months to be fully housetrained.)

Understand your puppy’s body language

An important but often overlooked step in the potty training process is learning your pup’s early “gotta go” signals.
By the time your puppy is circling and sniffing—a sign most pet parents recognize as a potty indicator—it’s probably too late to get your pup outside before an accident happens.
Every puppy will have body language that indicates the need to go before it gets critical, like trying to leave the room and acting distracted.

Picking up on those cues will allow you to get your pup outside well before it’s go-time.

Use treats and triggers.

Once outside with your pup, take them to a familiar location and wait for them to find the perfect potty spot.
When they’re finished, immediately follow up with a small treat (don’t wait until you’re back inside!) and praise them for a job well done.
You can also teach your puppy a potty phrase that will eventually act as a potty “trigger;” simply say something like “hurry up” as your puppy eliminates.

With enough repetitions your puppy will associate the phrase with the act of eliminating, which can help you cue them during inclement weather.

Never punish your puppy.

Finally, remember that accidents happen.
Never punish your puppy for making a mistake in the house, as it doesn’t teach your puppy what they should do and can damage your growing bond. Instead, try to interrupt your pup and get them outside to finish the job.
If it’s too late, use a good odor eliminator and vow to be a better supervisor in the future!

If you're on a time crunch, check out our tips for potty training a dog in just seven days.

Get Started With These Potty Training Essentials:

How to Train a Puppy to Sit

Teaching your puppy to sit is a great way to begin formal puppy training because it’s useful in many situations, plus it’s simple to master!

Use treats and repeat often.

To start the process, hold a small treat like Zukes Puppy Naturals right at your puppy’s nose level and slowly move it back between your puppy’s eyes and over your pup’s forehead.
As the treat travels up and over, your pup’s heard will rise up to follow it and their rump will go down.
The minute their rump hits the ground, mark the action by saying “yup!” or “good!” and then give your puppy the treat.
If your puppy opts to jump up rather than sit it’s likely you’re holding the treat too high, so try to keep it anchored to their nose so that it’s easy for them to reach with all four paws planted on the ground.

Repeat this process a few times until your puppy is quickly moving into position.

Remove the reward.

The key to a perfect “sit” is getting your puppy to do it without using a treat to lure them into position.
After a few successful repetitions, just stand still and wait for your puppy to offer you a sit. It might take a few seconds, but because your pup has had several successful repetitions of getting rewarded for sitting, it’s likely they’ll move into position without needing a hint from you.
As your pup starts to move into position say “sit” (you’re attaching the word to the behavior), then mark it with a “yup” and give them the treat. It usually takes pups about 15 to 20 repetitions before they associate the word with the behavior, at which point you can begin to ask for the position by saying the word “sit.”
Simply say “sit” and give your pup a few seconds to process (try not to repeat the word!), then give them a goody when they do it!

Practice sitting in a variety of environments and with different types of distractions to master the command.

Want to learn more about teaching this command? Learn everything you need to know about training "sit" here.

Set Yourself Up for Success With These Training Essentials:

Teaching Your Puppy to Come When Called

It’s easy to teach your puppy the foundation of a lifelong recall, and it’s fun too! This training cue is one of the most important lessons your puppy can learn since coming when called can help keep them safe. All you need to teach it is a pocket full of small, soft treats, a helper, a low-distraction environment and an eager student.

Choose a recall word.

Select a word other than your puppy’s name since you probably say it often, and it won’t have the impact you’re hoping for.
A word like “come” or “here” works great.
Get down on the ground across the room from your helper and call your dog to you by saying your recall word once in an upbeat tone, then follow up with some encouraging clapping or kissy noises.
The moment your dog gets to you give them a small treat and lots of praise.
Take turns calling your puppy with your partner back and forth, always giving them a treat and praise for running to you.
End the lesson on a positive note.

Practice and reward.

In the next session, set up the game so that you and your helper are in different rooms.
Call your puppy to you but remember that you might have to whistle or clap more so that they can find you.
Give them a treat when they gets to you, and have your helper call them back.
Continue practicing the game throughout your home, then once your puppy is a pro at the recall game, move the practice outside to a safe, familiar environment.

Want to learn more about teaching this command? Learn everything you need to know about training "come" here.

Ready for more training cues? Don't stop with these commands—there are so many more basic obedience cues that can keep your dog safe and healthy. Plus, they're fun to teach! Visit our guide to basic obedience training for full guides to teaching everything from fetch to lie down and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:When to start puppy training?

A:Pet parents wondering when to start puppy training should understand that puppies at least 8 weeks old are capable of learning right away, so the best time to start is now! Puppies as young as eight weeks old can begin working on good behavior training right away, like greeting people without jumping up and basic manners like “sit” and “come."

Q:Are puppy training classes worth it?

A:When considering if puppy training classes are worth it, think about how helpful it would be to have an expert on your side as you navigate pet parenthood. There’s so much to learn, so the answer is yes, they’re worth it! The best ways to train a puppy are positive reinforcement classes that use treats and tons of fun to teach the basics.

Q:Do puppy training pads work?

A:Pet parents wondering if puppy training pads work should consider where they eventually want their puppy to potty. Most people want their puppy to go outside, so using a training pad can add an extra unnecessary step to the process. Pet parents who can’t reach the outdoors quickly, like those who live in a high rise or have mobility issues, might need potty pads, but they’re not a necessary part of every new puppy’s shopping list.

Q:Does puppy potty training spray work?

A:Pet parents considering if potty training spray works might be surprised to learn they don’t actually need it for successful potty training. You can achieve the same result by training your puppy to go to the same areas where they've pottied before. And remember, rewarding your puppy with a small treat after they finish going will help encourage them to continue pottying in the proper location.

These basic training tricks serve as the foundation for training puppy obedience. Try these exercises daily and before you know it you and your pup will be on your way to basic training mastery!

The post Puppy Training 101: Your Guide to Mastering Basic Puppy Training appeared first on BeChewy.

How to Potty Train an Older Dog

Chewy Editorial — Mon, 15 May 2023 15:34:15 +0000

If you’re one of those amazing individuals who adopted an older dog… or you’re helping your older pup age gracefully and with dignity, we applaud you. We know that older dogs can bring challenges you may not have expected. And one challenge is house training.

There are two main scenarios where you maybe be looking for help on how to potty train an older dog. The first is when you adopt an adult dog from a shelter or humane society, and the dog was not properly trained to begin with. The second is when your own dog is aging and suddenly struggling to pee or poop outside.

Either way, we understand that you need help. You may have arrived here with the thought, “How do you train an older dog not to pee in the house? Like, right now?” Here, you’ll find tips and answers to the most common questions about house training an older dog, with or without a crate.

Why Potty Train An Older Dog?

Can I Potty Train An Older Dog?

How to Potty Train An Older Dog

Why You Should Potty Train An Older Dog

Before creating a plan for potty training an older dog it’s important that you speak with your pet’s regular vet. House training issues might stem from a medical condition which could need to be addressed. We spoke with Julie Buzby, DVM, CAVCA, CVA, has been a veterinarian for 26 years and specializes in health and behavior issues with older dogs. Some things to consider:

If you adopted an older dog and assumed he or she wasn't housebroken, unless you had a specific history that your adopted dog had never lived indoors, urinary or defecation accidents could be an indication of a medical condition before a training or behavioral problem. Says Dr. Buzby, “I’d be looking for Diabetes mellitus, Cushing's disease and/or a chronic urinary tract infection (UTI) in a senior dog before assuming the dog was not housebroken. “
Secondly, dogs can seem to "lose" their house training simply because they don't have the mobility to get up or get to the door and therefore have more accidents. Incidentally, this can be as distressing to the dog as it is to you and your family. So, mobility needs to be factored into the equation/interpretation of house soiling too.”

Once you have worked through any medical considerations with your vet and found the problem still persists, it’s time to think about behavioral issues that are causing potty problems for your older dog.

More about why your older dog might be peeing in the house.

Can an older dog still be potty trained?

Wondering if your old dog can learn some new tricks? Yes, as long as you know what you’re dealing with according to Irith Bloom, a faculty member at Victoria Stillwell Academy and a certified animal trainer, who is the director of training at The Sophisticated Dog, a Los Angeles-based pet training company.

Once you have a clear picture of any health issues and how to solve them, it’s time to consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer for the quickest path to success. Bloom says, “Learning how to house train an older dog can be both more and less challenging than potty training a puppy. Older dogs who don’t have a history of house training have a strong habit of pottying wherever and whenever they want, so they can find it difficult to understand why the rules are suddenly changing.

Also, even an older, well-trained dog may be confused about how house training works outside your home. If you’ve recently moved or your dog is pottying in other people’s houses, your dog may think that the rule is not to potty in your house, and not understand that the rule is that the bathroom is outdoors only.”

How Do I Potty Train An Older Dog?

Bloom offers the following guidelines for potty training older dogs. They work with dogs who have never been properly house trained and with dogs who need to be house trained in a new home. These guidelines also work with older dogs who need to be re-trained for medical reasons (as the medical issue is being treated).

Set up a space to confine your older dog between potty breaks, to avoid accidents around the house: If your dog is crate trained, you can use a Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Dog Crate or a Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft Dog Crate for up to four hours in a row. This may take some time to get used to, and it will help if the space is comfy with toys and a chew treat.

If your mission is house training an older dog without a crate—you can use the Carlson Pet Products Extra Wide Walk-Thru Gate, the MidWest Steel Pet Gate or the Frisco Dog Exercise Pen to block off a small room, such as the kitchen or bathroom (tile is easier to clean in case of accidents), or create a free-standing confinement area. Keep your dog in this space any time you’re not supervising them. Please do not leave your dog outside or in a cold garage. Your dog’s non-crate confinement space should be inside your home.

Clean up accidents properly: Irith Bloom advises, “The odor from past accidents is like a ‘restroom’ sign for your dog. Clean accidents thoroughly using a cleaner designed for pet stains, such as Nature’s Miracle Dog Stain and Odor Remover Spray. I recommend getting on your hands and knees and sniffing the area after you clean it to make sure the smell is truly gone. (Yes, I do this, and yes, my clients think it’s a bit odd—but you’d be amazed how many “missed” pee spots I’ve found!)”
Create a “legal bathroom” for your dog: “If your dog must be left alone longer than they can hold it, it’s important to give them a legal bathroom,” advises Ms. Bloom. “Wee Wee pads and other best dog diapers give your dog a better option than the floor for times when they’re gated or crated for too long, or if your dog has trouble holding it in general.” Find out more about training your dog to use dog pee pads here.

5-Step Plan for Potty Training Older Dogs

Here is Bloom's 5-step plan for successfully pottying training older dogs.

Take your dog out side to potty at least once every hour. Stand with your dog in an appropriate potty area. Act boring (so you don’t distract your dog from pottying) and wait five minutes to see if they relieve themselves. Praise and offer a treat as soon as they do. If the dog does not potty within five minutes, take the dog back to the confinement area for 10 to 15 minutes and then take them out again. Repeat until the dog potties outside.”

Set up a space to confine your older dog between potty breaks, to avoid accidents around the house. After the dog does their business, stay outdoors! If you go back indoors right away, your dog will learn that pottying ends fun outdoor time, and they may hold it longer so they can stay outside longer. Spend at least 10 minutes outdoors after your dog relieves themselves, so your dog learns pottying quickly earns extra fun time outside.

Provide limited supervised playtime after you go indoors. After the dog potties and you go back indoors, give them up to 15 minutes supervised time indoors before returning them to their confined space, so they don’t associate doing their business outside with being immediately crated or gated afterward.

Repeat these steps throughout the day. Take your dog out once every hour when you’re home, giving them praise and treats and extra outdoor time for pottying, followed by limited supervised time indoors before returning to confinement. Due to these frequent potty breaks, it’s best to start training over the weekend or when you know you’ll be home for a few subsequent days. When you’re not around, you can confine your dog for up to four hours during the training process and hire a dog walker to let them out for a potty break when you’ll be away for longer than that. Be sure the dog walker is aware of and understands your house-training routine.

Track their potty patterns. Create a house-training chart or use a notepad to track when and where your dog potties, so you can learn their patterns. This information will help you learn which times of day your dog most likely needs to go, and when they probably don’t need a potty break.

How Long Does It Take?

The stricter you are about following the routine outlined above, and the more often you can take your dog out, the faster your dog will learn. Ms. Bloom advises, “Some dogs learn in a single weekend, while others can take weeks or even months to get the hang of things. Patience is key.”

A few final take-aways to remember:

When learning how to potty train an older dog, accidents will happen. If you see your dog having an accident, calmly take them outside, and then praise and offer a treat for going in the right place. Fight the urge to yell or scold! Yelling and scolding teaches dogs to pee and poop where you can’t see them. In other words, they won’t stop going in the house; they’ll just hide before they do their business. More about how to deal with cleaning up dog poop outside.
Having an older dog who isn’t house trained is frustrating, but most older dogs can be potty trained within a couple of weeks. If you keep records of your dog’s bathroom habits, you can quickly get to just a few potty breaks a day.
For the fastest results, start with frequent potty breaks, take good notes and make sure that every time your dog does their business outside, they are rewarded with praise, treats and fun!

Learn more about what changes to expect in an older dog.

Learn More About Crate Training Older Dogs

The post How to Potty Train an Older Dog appeared first on BeChewy.

4 Top Doberman Training Tips—Plus Guides to Potty Training, Obedience and More

Wendy Bedwell Wilson — Mon, 15 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

If you’ve added a Doberman Pinscher to your family, you’re in luck: Dobies are a loyal, devoted and super intelligent dog breed. Once you can tap into their natural instinct to please their pet parents, you’ll raise a loving, dedicated dog who doubles as your best friend.

“They’re good dogs and insanely loyal,” says Dawn Vendegna-Perovic a professional trainer who specializes in working with Dobermans and Rottweilers. “You absolutely have to know how to handle them, however. You never ask a Doberman; you always tell him what to do. You have to show him what you want.”

These dog training tips will help you show your Dobie exactly that.

In This Guide

4 Important Training Tips

4 Most Important Doberman Training Tips

iStock.com/SolStock

1 Stick to a Schedule

Dobermans love routine. That means your routine as well as their own. Schedule their training sessions for the same time every day. If you want a happy Doberman, be mindful of your own schedule, as well as your dog’s.

“Everything, including training, has to be consistent,” Vendegna-Perovic says. “If you break their pattern, they may revolt.”

If you’re running an hour late one day, don’t be surprised if you come home to an unhappy pup.

iStock.com/Sasha Vasyliuk

2 Use Positive Reinforcement

Dobermans respond well to positive reinforcement—treats and praise to reward good behavior—rather than to training methods that involve harsh correction or physical punishment.

“Some dogs are more playful, others more adventurous, some more confident than others, and they're hardwired that way,” says Ardis Braun, of Dobies and Little Paws Rescue in Fillmore, California. “Learning new things should be fun for them so it's good to make it fun rather than just rote.”

More disciplinary measures are now decidedly out of favor. Too often they’ll teach your dog fear and aggressive behaviors.

“The age of militaristic training using prong collars or shock collars is completely passé and inappropriate,” says Nicholas Dodman, professor, section head and program director of the Animal Behavior Department of Clinical Sciences at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts.

“Remember,” Dodman says. “The opposite of reward is not punishment. The opposite of reward is no reward.”

iStock.com/primeimages

3 Start Early

The key to Doberman puppy training is to start at the right time—as early as when they’re six weeks old, at home. You won’t want to take them for off-site lessons until they’re four months old and have had their shots.

iStock.com/South_agency

4 Understand Their Temperament

Loyal, obedient and devoted to their owners, Dobermans have earned the nickname “Velcro dog,” Vendegna-Perovic says. You’ll rarely need to call your dog—Dobies don’t want to leave their parents’ side.

“They’re one-person and one-family dogs,” she explains. “They’re gentle giants who seem to be very close and very loyal to their owners in an affectionate, trusting way."

The key to understanding the Doberman personality is recognizing that these family dogs will do anything for their people—as long as the direction from their owners and families remains clear and consistent, Vendegna-Perovic says. (This is equally true for Doberman shepherds, who also love their families and don’t enjoy too much alone time.) Teach your Doberman well, and you’ll be rewarded with a lifelong companion.

Obedience Training a Doberman Pinscher

Your puppy is so excited to show you how well he’s going to do in obedience training. So, put your dog trainer hat on and let's get started with some basic obedience commands and skills.

Not sure you're up for the challenge? Find out how to find the best dog trainer for your pup.

Obedience Training: Sit

The first step in Doberman puppy training is teaching them to sit.

Take their favorite treat in your hand and let them smell it
Hold it so that the treat is above their head — then move your hand backward, toward their tail
They'll naturally sit, to reposition themselves to see the treat
As you do this, say “Sit,” and give your puppy the reward as they do

Get more tips and tricks for teaching your Doberman to sit.

Obedience Training: Stay

Once your Doberman has mastered sit, you can teach them to stay.

Instruct your dog to sit
After a few seconds of sitting still, reward your dog with a treat
Repeat this sequence, increasing the delay each time
When they can hold their sit for at least 15 seconds, introduce the stay command

Get more advice on teaching your Doberman to stay.

Obedience Training: How to Walk on a Leash

This is an important skill for ensuring safe behavior in public, especially around other people and cars.

Starting with your dog on leash, take a small step in any direction.
When your dog takes a step toward you, reward them with treats and praise.
Keep practicing with larger steps, multiple steps, and different directions, rewarding your dog each time they follow your lead.

Get more tips on teaching your Doberman to walk on leash.

House Training Your Doberman Puppy

Good news: An American Doberman is so smart and eager to please that it could take just a couple weeks to potty train your puppy, especially if this is done in tangent with crate training.

With your dog on a leash, take them outside, to the potty spot
When they begin to do their business, say “Go potty!”
As soon as they're finished, reward them with a treat and praise

Be aware that a puppy might need 8-10 potty breaks per day. Get more advice on potty training your puppy.

Socializing Your Doberman

All dogs need socialization, aka positive exposure to new people, places and experiences. Through consistent practice with new things, your Doberman will learn to trust the world around them, which can lead to a happier, less anxious pup. (We can't promise they'll be less attached to you, though!)

Follow these tips to help your dog happily explore their world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I start training my Doberman puppy?

A: You can start training your Doberman puppy when they're between 6 and 12 weeks old.

Q: Are Dobermans easy to train?

A: In some ways, Dobermans are easy to train—they’re smart and hard-working dogs, who respond well to rewards—but it's important that they understand who the boss is (aka you).

Q: How long does it take to train a Doberman?

A: If you’re wondering how long it takes to train a Doberman, the answer really depends on your dog’s temperament. Expect to spend 5-15 minutes per training session at first, adjusting that based on how well the dog performs.

Expert input provided by Dawn Vendegna-Perovic, a professional trainer who specializes in working with Dobermans and Rottweilers, and Nicholas Dodman, Professor, Section Head and Program Director, Animal Behavior Department of Clinical Sciences at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts, as well as Ardis Braun of Dobies and Little Paws Rescue in Fillmore, California.

The post 4 Top Doberman Training Tips—Plus Guides to Potty Training, Obedience and More appeared first on BeChewy.

10 Tips for Training Your Golden Retriever

Wendy Rose Gould — Sat, 13 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000

What is it about Golden Retrievers that make them such a popular pick for dog parents? Well, besides their beauty, both Golden Retriever puppies and adult doggos typically are very people-oriented dogs who exhibit good behavior, lots of affection and gentle temperaments. Golden Retriever breeders will tell you that these intelligent dogs have lots of energy and usually respond well to training. From basic obedience training and leash training to crate training and fun tricks, this pooch is eager and quick to learn—especially if you’ve got some yummy dog treats in hand!

In This Guide

Positive Reinforcement 101

10 Golden Retriever Training Tips

Positive Reinforcement 101

No matter the dog breed you’re working with, the best training approach is always positive reinforcement, aka using rewards to teach desired behaviors, explains Caroline George, DVM, a veterinarian with the Aliso Beach Animal Clinic in Laguna Beach, California. Not only is this considered the kindest approach, but it’s highly effective for all types of training. Here's how it works: When your dog performs a skill or behavior that you like, you give them treats, toys or praise. In time, your dog associates that skill or behavior with good outcomes and becomes more likely to repeat it.

There's one catch, though: Positive reinforcement works best when pet parents stay consistent. For example, every time they ask a dog to sit or shake—and it is done correctly—a treat or toy should be given. At the same time, it’s best to avoid negative reinforcement, aka punishment, if your pup doesn’t catch on right away.

10 Golden Retriever Training Tips

If you’re a new Golden Retriever pet parent, your next step after your pup settles into their new home is to start dog training. Whether you’re diving into potty training (a must when Golden Retriever puppy training), teaching your pet essential cues like how to lie down, sit, or drop it, or exploring some fun tricks, these dog training techniques and tips will ensure successful training sessions.

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1 Make Dog Training Sessions Fun

Golden Retrievers learn well through games, so aim to keep things light and fun. This helps keep your dog’s attention span during each training session. Use a happy tone of voice rather than a stern one, avoid yelling, and exercise patience. If your dog doesn’t respond to a cue from you, you can gain their attention by being playful and making the task a little easier to get them re-engaged.

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2Make It Rewarding

Here’s where that positive reinforcement comes in! Goldens are highly motivated by food and often by play. When you use highly rewarding training treats or dog toys during your dog training sessions, you reward the specific behaviors you are trying to teach your dog and you build an enthusiastic learner. Teach your dog to love learning.

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3Keep It Age- and Skill-Appropriate

We don’t ask toddlers to do algebra. In the same vein, make sure your expectations are reasonable for your dog. For example, puppies need shorter training sessions—around three to five minutes each—because their bodies and brains are not well-developed yet and their attention span is shorter.

Regarding age-appropriate training for puppies, Dr. George recommends the following:

Potty Training: This should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Take your pup out to go potty several times per day and within a few minutes after eating. Make sure you take your pup to the same spot in the yard/the same desired outdoor spot to eliminate each time.
Socializing: You can begin socialization—aka introducing your puppy to new people, places and experiences—within a week or two of bringing your puppy home. “Expose the pup to several different people and other dogs of similar ages (if appropriately vaccinated and friendly) in a non-threatening environment,” Dr. George advises. “While the pup is being socialized, avoid dog parks, the dog beach or other areas where other dogs may be unvaccinated, unpredictable, or aggressive.” Find out more about how to socialize a puppy.
Obedience Training: Start training your pup around eight weeks of age. Training your dog early will make it easier to take them to visit the vet, go on walks and thrive in other social situations.

Even adult dogs who are new to you and your home may not be ready for high-level training because they still are adjusting to the new environment and people in their lives. Feel it out and practice patience.

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4Make It Safe

Keep safety top of mind when training your Golden Retriever. Complete your training sessions in a space that’s safe and comforting, like your home or backyard, rather than at a noisy dog park or near a busy road.

On that note, because Golden Retrievers are often large, strong and energetic dogs, you may want to consider a gentle leader head collar, such as the PetSafe Gentle Leader Dog Head Collar. This gives you additional leverage whenever you are walking your pet in an exciting environment. You’ll also need a 4-to-6-foot flat training leash for day-to-day walking and training.

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5Make Dog Training Clear

Using the clicker training method can help you communicate very clear feedback when your dog gets it right. Clicker training is extremely effective and is used worldwide to train all kinds of species. This method uses a special sound to mark a specific behavior. Using a dog clicker lets your pet know they’ve earned a reward. It doesn’t take long for a dog to understand and then repeat the behavior.

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6Make Training a Regular Part of the Day

None of us master skills without regular practice, and the same goes for your floofy canine companion. Speed up the process by including dog training during daily activities.

Is it time for dinner? Then practice “sit” before you put the bowl in front of your dog. Are you about to take a walk? Call your dog’s name just before you pick up the leash (or whatever cue the dog might notice). Practice “down” and “stay” after your dog’s walk, when they’re more likely to respond to your cue. There are many opportunities to practice commands in everyday situations, so use that to your advantage!

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7Make Dog Training a Family Project

Be sure your Golden Retriever has a positive relationship with every member of the family—including other pets. Encourage each family member to practice basic skills with the dog, including:

Sit
Down
Off (people, counters, furniture)
Stay
Come
“All done” (to end sessions)

Encourage everyone to work on emphasizing a default behavior.

You can help other pets feel safe around your Golden by using equipment (a dog leash, crate and/or dog gate) to separate them as needed when supervision isn’t possible.

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8Make It Consistent

All members of the family must agree on some of the “rules of the house” for your dog. While it’s OK to have slight differences in how each person interacts with pets, the dog will learn best and maintain their manners if the guidelines are consistent. Parents might choose to train basic commands first, and then help the kids show the dog how to ask for them, too.

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9Make Dog Training Progressive

As your Golden Retriever learns new cues, basic manners and rules, you can increase your criteria for training. For example, once your dog understands how to sit and lie down at certain times, you can begin to ask them to maintain that position until released from it.

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10Make It a Lifetime Commitment

Even when your dog has very good manners and is a treasured member of the family, there are always new things to learn. Dog training provides excellent brain stimulation, which helps use your Golden’s high energy level. It also strengthens the human-animal bond, which enriches the entire household. Explore new sports and activities, like agility training or dog sports.

Whether you begin with a new puppy who’s two months old, an adolescent rescue, or are training a senior dog for the first time, these tips can help your new Golden Retriever understand what to do in their new home. It also allows your pup to burn energy, provides fun mental stimulation, and builds a strong bond between you and your dog. Need more training tips? Here's everything you need to know about basic dog obedience training.

Expert insight provided by Caroline George, DVM, a veterinarian with the Aliso Beach Animal Clinic in Laguna Beach, Calif.; and Janet Velenovsky, past president of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a certified Animal Behavior Consultant.

The post 10 Tips for Training Your Golden Retriever appeared first on BeChewy.

How to Teach Your Dog to “Speak” (Because Barking Is Cute When It’s On Command)

Irith Bloom, CPDT-KSA — Tue, 09 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Unwanted dog barking can be frustrating. But your dog barking when you prompt them to do so? Unspeakably cute and impressive! “Speak” is one of those fun tricks (like “roll over”) that makes life with dogs so fun. Most dogs can learn a speak command within a few training sessions. Play your cards right, and you can even teach a quiet command while you are at it!

One more reason to teach this new trick: Teaching a dog to do a single bark on cue can also help curb excessive barking. Ready to try it? Read on!

In This Guide

How to Teach a Dog to Speak

Teaching the Quiet Command

Why Is My Dog Barking Excessively?

How to Teach a Dog to Speak

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1 Gather Your Supplies

You only need a couple things to teach a dog to speak:

Tasty dog treats (use small treats, or cut larger treats into small pieces)
A clicker (optional)

2Trigger Your Dog to Bark

To teach a dog to speak, you need to start by getting the dog to bark. You know your dog best, so think about what gets a reliable woof out of your pooch. Do they bark when you pick up the leash? How about when the doorbell rings or when someone knocks at the door? Or maybe they start to woof when you pull out their favorite toy.

Once you’ve figured out your dog’s bark trigger, aka the thing that gets your dog barking, grab your dog treats and get ready for action!

3Reward Your Dog for Barking

Now that you know your dog’s bark trigger, do that thing—but be ready to thank your dog and “mark the bark” as soon as the barking starts. To mark the bark, you can:

say “thank you” (or “good dog” or any other short phrase or word you want)
click a clicker (if you already use clicker training)
hold up a treat

In this step, you’re trying to teach your dog things: First, that they’ll get positive reinforcement—in the form of a tasty treat—when they bark. Second, that they should limit the barking to a single bark (so it’s easier to control).

So, here's a quick summary of how this step goes:

Do the bark trigger
Dog barks once
Mark the bark

4After You Mark the Bark, Feed a Tasty Treat

After you mark the bark, feed your dog a treat. This will both provide positive reinforcement for the single bark, encouraging your dog to bark just once and then stop.

Here's your new set of steps:

Do the bark trigger
Dog barks once
Mark the bark
Feed a treat

Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until you are confident your dog will bark just once and then stop after the bark trigger.

5Add a Verbal Command or Hand Signal

Now it’s time to teach your new speak command. This command should be the word, phrase or hand signal you intend to use to let your dog know to bark. Many pet parents use the word “speak,” but it’s really up to you what you choose.

To teach the speak command, follow this pattern:

Give your new speak command
Half-second pause
Do the bark trigger
Dog barks once
Mark the bark
Feed a treat

As you do this, pay attention to your dog’s body language. With repetition, most dogs will get ready to bark as soon as they hear or see the speak command.

If your dog looks ready to bark as soon as you give the hand signal or verbal cue, pause for an extra half-second to see if they will bark without the bark trigger. If they do, that means they’re starting to learn the new speak command! You may need to practice for a few days before they get really confident, but you’re on the right track.

6 Use Only the Speak Command

Now that your dog has learned the speak command, you can start to give the hand signal or verbal cue, then mark the bark, and finally feed a treat. Show your new dog trick off to your friends, and practice it here, there, and everywhere!

Here’s a quick summary of the steps, once your dog has learned the cue:

Give the speak command
Dog barks once
Mark the bark
Feed a treat

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Teaching the Quiet Command

If your dog is from a barky breed, or just barks a lot in a “talky” kind of way, you may want to teach a quiet command. To do this, follow the steps above—but instead of marking the bark with a clicker, “thank you,” etc., say “quiet” right after your dog barks, and then feed the treat. Here’s a simple summary of what to do:

Do the bark trigger
Dog barks
Say “quiet”
Dog stops barking
Feed a treat

After a little practice, your dog will stop barking when they hear “quiet,” since they know a treat is coming. You can then use the quiet command to get some peace.

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Why Is My Dog Barking Excessively?

While teaching the quiet command sounds easy, it doesn’t always work, because sometimes barking is about more than just chatting. If your dog barks a lot, start by researching your dog's breed and their barking tendencies. Some dog breeds tend to bark more than others. This will help you sort out whether the barking is normal behavior or a sign that something more serious might be going on.

Excessive barking can be your canine buddy’s way of expressing deep-seated dog needs. If those needs are not being met, asking your dog to be quiet will not do the trick.

Barking can indicate that your dog is suffering from:

Separation anxiety
Pain
A noise phobia
Generalized anxiety

If your dog seems anxious, or you are having trouble curbing excessive barking, start by consulting your vet. With their expertise in veterinary medicine, they can help rule out medical causes.

If your dog has gotten a clean bill of health but is still barking excessively, the next person to talk to is a certified professional dog trainer — a CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, or CDBC. These professionals have expertise in dog training and behavior modification and can help you figure out the best way to use positive reinforcement to teach your dog to be quieter. You can find a professional dog trainer near you using the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers’ directory.

Find out more about why dogs bark.

Barking doesn’t have to be a nuisance—in fact, it can be a fun dog trick! So have fun and amaze your friends with your clever dog’s new trick! And once your pup has the “speak” command under their belt, keep the learning going with more fun obedience training commands.

The post How to Teach Your Dog to “Speak” (Because Barking Is Cute When It’s On Command) appeared first on BeChewy.

How To Potty Pad Train Your Dog

Wendy Rose Gould — Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Lots of dogs love being outside—but your pooch may not always have easy access to the outdoors. That’s when dog potty pads come in handy. They give your doggy a place to potty if they can’t wait to be let out. With a little practice and encouragement from you, your pup can learn to use dog pee pads to avoid accidents inside your home, while traveling and beyond.

In This Guide

Why Should I Use Pee Pads?

How to Teach a Dog to Use Potty Pads

What Are the Best Pee Pads for My Dog?

Common Potty Pad Training Mistakes

Why Should I Use Pee Pads?

While many dog parents would prefer that their dogs did their business outside, pee pads (aka potty pads) can be a blessing for you and your pup in a number of situations. Birgit Walker, a dog trainer based in Phoenix, Arizona, recommends using potty pads for dog pee and poop in these scenarios:

Traveling: Planes, trains and boats are a tricky place to be when it’s potty time for your pup. These modes of transportation don’t always provide the opportunity to take your dog outside for relief, notes Walker: “With the potty pad, you can let the dog out of the crate in a secluded corner or area and let them go there.”
Leaving Your Dog at Home: Walker suggests using pee pads in your home whenever you have to leave for an extended period of time and won’t be home for potty breaks. “If the dog doesn’t have a way to get out, you can teach them to have a certain area in the house where you want them to go,” she says.
Crate Liners: If you need to leave your dog in a crate for a while, Walker suggests lining the crate with potty pads in case they need to eliminate. (Do note that dogs don’t like to pee where they nap, so this should only be a final resort—not the norm.)
House Training for Puppies: Puppy pads come in very handy when you potty train a puppy. Puppies in particular are more susceptible to germs and diseases, says Walker, and they shouldn’t always go outside in public places. If you don’t have a private lawn and your puppy hasn’t had all of their shots, you can use a potty pad inside before moving it outside to teach them to go in the yard.
Training a Senior Dog to Go Inside: Along with housebreaking young and old puppies, potty pads are a good option for senior dogs (or incontinent dogs) that may struggle to make it to the door in order to potty outside. Having a potty area inside with a leak-proof potty pad can help prevent accidents.

How To Potty Pad Train Dogs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Training dogs to use a potty pad needs to happen in a few stages, says Walker. Whether you have a small or large dog, a tiny puppy or a sweet senior, follow this training process.

1Train Your Dog to Go to the Bathroom on Command

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Training dogs to go on command is helpful for puppies, senior dogs and every age in between, Walker says—especially if you’re in new, distracting surroundings. A busy area with lots of commotion, like an airport, might cause them to forget the task at hand.

To train your dog to potty on command, use a consistent word cue before your dog does their business, such as, “Go potty.” For dogs who have already been through house training, use the command before they go to the bathroom every time you take them for a walk or let him outside. For new puppy training, look for other cues and times of day—especially right after the dog has woken up, after they’ve played a lot, or after they’ve eaten, says Walker.

“They're learned it when you take them out and say ‘go potty!’(or whatever your cue is) and they go,” says Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavior Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society. “They've really learned it when you say the cue when they don't actually have to go and they fake a potty. Not sure you need that part, but I've seen it dozens of times.”

Whenever you use the command and your pup goes, make sure to heap on the praise. Positive reinforcement is a very important aspect whether you’re teaching them how to have a successful potty or a fun new trick.

2 Find a Good Potty Spot For the Pee Pad

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Where you put the potty pad can help with dog training. For older dogs who have already been through house training, Walker suggests putting the potty pad in the area where you usually walk your dog or where they usually go to eliminate in your yard.

Farah says that moving the pad around for training purposes is helpful, and that it can even serve as an important training step if you want your puppy to be able to use a pad during travel. However, if you’re using the pee pad for daily use—like in the case of a senior pup or other dog who needs to be able to go potty in the house during the day—it’s best to keep the pad in a consistent location.

On that note, when you’re puppy training with a potty pad, try to confine your dog to a small area with the potty pad. This can be in a playpen, or a small area of your home. Walker suggests using dog gates in a hallway or other secluded space so your puppy only has a small area in which they can go to the bathroom.

Pro Tip: Remove anything that feels like a pad—such as thin throw rugs—from the general vicinity of the pad during training to avoid confusion.

3 Introduce The Potty Pad

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Always put your dog on a leash before you start using the potty pad. “Many people will put the potty pad down somewhere and hope the dog finds it, but it’s important for behavior that we show the dog what to do,” says Walker. A leash is crucial for this.

Use the leash to guide your pup onto the pad, then say “go potty” or whatever other training cue you’ve chosen. If training your pup with a pad outside, you’ll eventually be able to move the potty pad into the house and continue training there.

If your pup is well-trained to go potty on command, they might just eliminate on the pad on cue. If not, keep trying, focusing on times when your dog typically needs to do their business, like 20-30 minutes after eating or just waking up.

4 Reward Your Dog's Successes

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Every time you cue your dog to pee and they use the pad, make sure to give them praise with lots of enthusiastic words and yummy dog treats. Ultimately, you want to form a positive association with them using the pad.

5 Stay Consistent

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Don't ease off the training after just a few successes. Keep taking your pup to the pee pad and cueing them to eliminate—always followed by praise and treats when they do. Eventually, your dog will start using the pee pad without being cued. When that happens—you guessed it—heap on even more praise and treats!

With consistent training, Farah says, your dog can become trained to use pee pads within a week’s time. But the key word there is “consistent”—if you take a break or allow your puppy to roam freely and eliminate wherever they want, it can take much longer.

What Are the Best Pee Pads for My Dog?

You’ll find lots of pee pads out there, but which one is the best?

“I'd start with the largest potty pad you can find—regardless of the size of the dog—to make the target easier,” says Farah. You can gradually go smaller if you need to once they're using it consistently. Try something like the Frisco Extra Large Dog Training & Potty Pads.

Walker also recommends using fully-lined, leak-proof, disposable pads because they’re easy to clean up and great for travel. Frisco’s premium potty pads have both, as well as five absorbent layers to further protect your floors. They come in three sizes and feature a built-in attractant that’s good for house training puppies as well as potty pad training indoor dogs.

If your dog seems resistant to using a pad and is used to usually going outside, you may find that they prefer a product with the natural look and feel of grass. In that case, choose a washable, reusable product like the Four Paws Wee-Wee Dog Grass Patch Tray, which mimics the outdoors. The pads have a removable grass-like top layer and a durable tray underneath with a pour spout that makes cleanup easy.

Common Mistakes When Potty Pad Training

Lack of training: If you put the potty pad down and think your dog should somehow know that that’s where they’re supposed to go, you’ll be disappointed, says Walker. Using a leash means you can guide your dog to the potty pad when it’s time and show them the behavior you want them to do.
Inconsistency: “Many pet parents don’t realize how often dogs—especially puppies—have to use the bathroom,” says Walker. She suggests near-constant supervision, especially at key times like right after they get up in the morning and 20-30 minutes after your dog has eaten. At these times, either keep a very close eye on your pup or confine them to a small space until you can take them to the potty pad.
Over-Excitement: Would you have a harder time going to the bathroom if there were someone standing over you and shouting? So would your puppy. So stay calm and ignore the impulse to repeat your potty command over and over. Instead, firmly give the command once and let your dog just be for a moment. They just might surprise you!

Potty training your dog to use a pee pad is a real game-changer for both pet parents and dogs. It means fewer accidents to clean up, less stress for you and your pooch, and a solution for situations when getting outdoors to pee and poop isn’t an option. Stay the course, give your pup lots of positive reinforcement, and they’ll be pad trained in no time!

Need a potty training primer? We’ve got you covered.

The post How To Potty Pad Train Your Dog appeared first on BeChewy.

How to Train Your Cat to Use the Bathroom Outside

Wendy Rose Gould — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Look, kitty litter is a revolutionary product for cat parents. It allows cats to live with us indoors, and often requires very little litter training on our part. But despite its many advantages, scooping pee and poop from a litter box gets old really fast, and some cats experience litter box problems, such as improper elimination, that result in stinky, messy accidents.

As an alternative to using an indoor litter box, you may want to consider teaching your cat how to use the bathroom outdoors. Peeing outside feels natural for many cats, and can solve the issues associated with indoor litter boxes, too.

In This Guide

Benefits of Outdoor Litter Training

How To Teach Your Cat To Use The Bathroom Outside

Common Reasons for Improper Cat Elimination

Benefits of Outdoor Litter Training

There are multiple benefits to training indoor cats to use the bathroom outside. Here are just a few:

Fewer Messes: Many kitty litters can create a mess on your floors, even if your cat is using their litter box perfectly. Whether you use scoopable clay or non-clumping litter, part of your day is dedicated to cleaning up litter trails left behind by granules that stick to your cat’s feet after they step out of the sand. By training a cat to go outside, the litter remains outside, leaving less for you to clean.

A Fresher Smelling Home: An outdoor cat litter box also means less odor inside your home. Odor-eliminating kitty litter is great at masking the scent of excrement, but that doesn't mean you'll never catch a whiff of your cat's latest, uh, deposit. By training your cat to use the litter box outside, you can get rid of litter odor once and for all.

It Feels Natural: Many of our feline friends consider the great outdoors to be nature’s great litter box. Peeing and pooping outside feels natural for them! There are exceptions, of course, like some older cats, disabled cats or very timid cats who prefer to stay indoors at all times.

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How To Teach Your Cat To Use The Bathroom Outside

Ready to explore the option of potty training your cat for the great outdoors? Here’s the training process:

1Gather Supplies

The good news is that you don’t need a whole lot to teach your cat to poop and pee outside. Here’s what you should gather:

A Cat Door: Your cat needs to be able to exit when they need to go, whether you’re around or not. Installing a cat door allows them to do this.

Sand: Most types of litter, including clumping and non-clumping clay-based litter, turn into a yucky mess when rained on, says Stephen Quandt, a certified feline training and behavior specialist working in New York City. He says to opt for a waterproof litter, such as sand, which drains well. You can also combine it with a substrate, such as peat moss, to hold the sand in place better.

Wooden Frame: This is optional, but Quandt says, “Placing a wooden frame around the litter will hold the litter in place. This frame can be mostly submerged or raised above ground level.” Keeping the sand contained in a frame prevents it from spreading and dissipating over time, which means lower maintenance for you.

Pro Tip: You can place a regular litter tray filled with kitty litter outside so long as it’s in a covered area and your cat prefers it to using something like sand or dirt. You may find that you need to scoop it more often compared to using the sandbox approach.

2 Guide Your Cat To The Designated Spot

Before you begin, you’ll need to install a cat door—making it easy for your furry friend to come and go as they need. Once it’s in place, show your cat the designated spot for elimination. Ideally, it’s located close to your house so they can easily access it.

If your cat has a difficult time finding and using this spot immediately, it’s helpful to use a regular litter box to help them transition. Begin gradually moving their existing indoor litter box closer to the cat door, then place it outside and begin moving it closer to the designated spot. The process can take anywhere from 7 to 10 days, and it’s important you don’t rush through the process.

You can also watch your kitty for signs they need to go, such as meowing, digging on carpets or blankets, and squatting. When it’s time to go, pick them up and place them in the litter box outside. Repeat this step for a few days until they become accustomed to coming outside to use the restroom.

3 Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement, aka offering treats, toys or other rewards for good behavior, is the best way to train a cat to use the restroom outside. Offer treats and praise whenever your cat uses the designated spot, and never use punishment or physical force if they’re not doing what you want. These negative tactics can make your cat afraid of you and undermine the training process.

Positive reinforcement also comes in handy for cats who are afraid to use the cat door. To help them overcome this challenge, start with an open cat door and toss some treats through it so your cat has to pop their head out to eat them. Continue this training, tossing the treats further each time to entice them to go all the way through.

Other cats may not understand how to open the door, or are simply too gentle to push it open. To teach them how to use the door, hold the door partially open, and repeat the treat throwing process above. Over time, make the opening smaller so your cat has to push more and more to go through.

4 Keep The Area Clean

While you may find yourself scooping less often with a cat who eliminates outside, you’re not completely off the hook. About once or twice a week, scoop out the poop in their designated spot so it remains an attractive place for them to do their business.

Aside from that, practice patience and continue using positive reinforcement. Over time, your feline friend will likely forget about their indoor litter box and end up preferring to poop and pee outside instead!

Common Reasons for Improper Cat Elimination

If you’re hoping to teach your cat to use the bathroom outside due to problems with improper elimination, ask yourself: Why is my cat having litter box problems? Cats are notoriously clean animals with strong habits and instincts that drive them to use a litter box, so if they routinely pee or poop somewhere else in your home, it may be a sign of a larger problem. Here are some common reasons to consider:

Medical Issues: The first thing to check for if your cat starts going outside the box is a medical cause. Urinary conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary tract stones/crystals in the urine and an inflamed bladder are common in cats, and inappropriate elimination is one of the primary ways your cat is telling you something is wrong.
Litter Box Dissatisfaction: If your cat isn’t pleased with their litter box situation, they will avoid it. Make sure you’re using a type of litter they prefer, that the box is clean, and that it’s in an area that allows them to feel safe. If you have multiple cats, a good rule is to have one for each cat, plus one extra.
Anxiety: Nervous or anxious cats may choose to go outside the litter box. This is a form of communication—they’re trying to tell you something. It may be that they’re experiencing separation anxiety, or the stress of having more than one cat or introducing another cat. Changes in their home or schedule can also result in pooping and peeing outside the litter box.
Marking: Marking (aka spraying) occurs for a few reasons. These include sexual marking, which is more common in non-spayed and non-neutered cats signaling to other mates, as well as affiliate marking which is a signal they miss you or need to communicate something to you (this might be the case if they’re peeing on your belongings). Some cats also engage in territorial marking, which can happen if they see a neighbor cat through the window or are in a home with another cat and want to claim their territory.

If you’re able to pinpoint the cause of improper elimination, then you’re one step closer to a happier, healthier kitty. Once you’ve figured out the cause, you may opt to keep their litter box indoors, or consider the outdoor option. If opting for the latter, remember to practice positive reinforcement and your kitty will be going outside in no time.

Tired of daily litter box scooping? Check out these self-cleaning litter boxes.

Expert input for this story provided by: Stephen Quandt, CFTBS, a certified feline training and behavior specialist and founder of Cat Behavior Help; and Dr. Sophia Yin, DVM, a former veterinarian, animal behaviorist, and author.

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How to Train Your Dog to Use Pet Stairs

Irith Bloom, CPDT-KSA — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000

You love snuggling with your dog on the couch and falling asleep together in bed at night. But jumping up to join you on those high surfaces might be a challenge for your dog if they’re small, easing into their senior years or are just a little afraid to take the leap. With a set of stairs, your pet can confidently get on and off of your couch, bed and other high places—and spend more time snuggling with you.

Read on for dog training tips for teaching your pooch to use pet stairs, whether they are a senior dog, a small breed or a new puppy.

How to Train a Dog to Use Dog Stairs: Step-by-Step Instructions

Before you get started, remember that climbing stairs and going down the stairs repeatedly is hard on the body, especially for puppies and older dogs. So no matter whether your dog is a puppy, a senior or somewhere in between, keep your training sessions short, no more than 5 minutes at a time. Most dogs learn this skill in a few sessions, but it can take a bit longer with a new puppy or fearful dog.

Follow these dog training steps for teaching your dog to go up and down stairs.

1 Gather Your Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need:

A set of pet stairs
Dog treats, cut up very tiny
Cushions or pillows to put around the stairs (for safety)

When choosing a set of stairs, consider the following:

How high does the dog need to reach? Your stairs should be about as tall as the sofa seat or bed where your dog wants to go.
What’s the stair surface like? Wood and metal are slippery, which can lead to potentially dangerous falls from the stairs. Look for rubber or carpet instead.
How tall and deep is each step? Pick something suitable for your dog’s size. Most pet stairs come with a recommended size range for dogs, so check the product details before you purchase.

2 Pick the Right Location for the Steps

Set the steps up next to a piece of furniture like your bed or couch, giving your dog a straight, clear pathway to the top. It might be extra-motivating for your dog if you start by placing the steps next to a location they especially love, like your typical cuddle spot.

To keep your dog safe, put couch cushions or pillows on both sides of the pet stairs, so the dog has a soft landing if they slip. Those cushions don’t have to remain there forever—you can remove them once your dog is comfortable and adept at navigating the stairs.

3Put Treats on the Steps

Positive reinforcement, aka offering rewards for good behavior, is the best way to teach new tricks like climbing stairs. In this case, you’ll use dog treats to reward your dog for learning this skill. Start by placing the treats on the steps and letting your dog notice them. They’ll help your dog form a good impression the first time they see pet stairs.

4Reinforce Your Dog’s Efforts to Climb the Steps

As your pup sniffs the dog treats, they may naturally place a paw on the stairs. If this happens, praise and put extra treats on the step.

If your dog hesitates to touch the stairs, hold a treat in your hand in front of your dog’s nose, and slowly move it to the tread of the step above the dog. If your dog doesn’t follow the treat closely (i.e. if their nose doesn’t stay at least two inches from the treat in your hand), start over. Move the treat back to their nose, and try to lure them toward the stairs again.

If your dog still hesitates, you have a couple of options:

Try a different treat—an extra-smelly, super-tasty, beyond-enticing treat, that is!
Scatter more dog treats on the steps and then step away. Let your dog explore and watch to see what they do next. When they step onto the stairs, praise and then try luring them with a treat again.

Repeat this process to get your dog onto the second step, then the next step, and so on.

5Reward Your Dog Even More When They Reach the Top

When your dog reaches the top step, give a bonus treat, and then spend some time cuddling and relaxing with your dog on the furniture. Bonding with you is the biggest reward of all! (Or at least it’s a close second to those treats.)

Pro Tip: Never remove the steps while the dog is still on the furniture. If your pup decides they want to get down, they may fall or jump, which could lead to injuries.

6Do It in Reverse

To teach your dog to go down stairs, repeat steps 2-4 in reverse. Start with your dog on the furniture near the top of the stairs. Place dog treats on the stairs and praise and treat for each step they go down. Have a fun hangout session when they reach the bottom of the stairs.

Training a dog to go down stairs sometimes takes longer than training them to go up. Going down the stairs is awkward when you have four paws—imagine going down the stairs on your hands and knees! Remember to practice extra patience with your pup during this step.

You may need to do several training sessions before your dog starts walking up and down the stairs on their own. Praise, pet, and feed a bonus treat when they do. Soon they’ll be climbing stairs like a champ!

Pro Tip: You can use this process to teach your dog to climb any set of stairs, including the ones you use to go to different floors of your home. Just remember, stair surfaces can be slippery, so use caution when training your pup.

What If My Dog Still Won’t Use the Steps?

Try these troubleshooting tips if your dog just isn’t getting on board with using the stairs:

If your dog is hesitant, take things extra-slow. Keep training sessions super-short (think 30 seconds) and feed plenty of treats even if they don’t make much progress.
If your dog doesn’t want to get near the stairs, leave them in place for a few days. Most dogs adjust to new objects in time. Once your dog seems comfortable, try the training again, remembering to take it slow.
Some dogs find stairs physically challenging. Consider using a dog ramp instead, so your dog doesn’t have to lift their feet as high. You can use the same steps above to teach your dog to use a pet ramp.
If you’re struggling, consult a certified trainer or dog behavior consultant. Look for professionals with a CBCC-KA or a CDBC certification—you can find one near you using the Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant Directory.

Pet stairs are a great way to expand a dog’s world. Train them to use them on their own, and they’ll be able to come hang out with you more often, too.

What’s next on your training journey with your dog? Find even more new skills your dog can learn.

The post How to Train Your Dog to Use Pet Stairs appeared first on BeChewy.

How to Find the Best Dog Trainer for Your Unique Pup

Ciara LaVelle — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:45:48 +0000

Whether you’ve brought home a new dog or are hoping to teach your old dog new tricks, the right trainer can get you started on the right foot. But dog trainers are like therapists: They’re not all created equal, and the person who worked wonders for one dog might not connect with yours. So how do you find a dog trainer who’s perfect for your pup? We’ve got you covered.

In This Guide

What to Look For

Group Classes Vs. Private Sessions

How Much Does a Dog Trainer Cost?

Find a Dog Trainer Near You

What to Look For

Look for these attributes to find the right dog trainer for you:

A Professional Certification: Dog training is an unregulated profession, which means literally any person can start a business as a dog trainer, even if they’ve never met a dog before. To ensure you’re working with a real pro, make sure your trainer has been certified by a respected professional organization (more on those below).
A Positive Reinforcement Approach: Positive reinforcement is a training methodology that’s backed by research, as well as supported by most professional dog training organizations. Using this approach means rewarding your pup’s good behavior with treats, toys and/or praise, and never punishing them when they don’t do what you want. No matter what a dog is learning, from basic training to more difficult skills, studies have proven that positive reinforcement is as effective as (and in some ways better than) other training methods—and a good dog trainer will be well-versed in it.
Experience With Your Training Goals: From basic manners to complex tasks like assisting people with disabilities, dogs can learn to do a wide range of things—and not every trainer will have experience in all of them. Ask yourself what you hope to get out of dog training, and then search for a trainer who specializes in it.

Group Classes Vs. Private Sessions

Dog training classes are a relatively inexpensive option for manners and obedience. They also provide safe socialization opportunities. Puppy classes run by a certified trainer are great for new puppies who are learning about the world—and because the demand for puppy training is especially high, there’s likely to be at least one good puppy class in your area. Puppy classes are usually 4-6 weeks long, with one class per week.
But there are lots of other types of training classes, too. The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) course that trains pups and their parents on everything from meeting strangers to basic obedience training and walking on leash. And if you’re interested in obedience competitions, local obedience clubs run obedience classes, too.
Individual sessions (aka private lessons) can be a good fit for dogs who are nervous around strangers, or if you have very specific training needs—for example, if you want your pup to learn a dog sport like agility or dock diving. If your puppy hasn’t had enough vaccinations to be in a group class, individual sessions with a professional dog trainer are good place to start, too.

How Much Does a Dog Trainer Cost?

Dog training classes cost between $30 and $80 per training session.
Private sessions cost an average of $140 per session.

Find a Dog Trainer Near You

To ensure you’re working with a real pro, make sure your trainer has been certified by one of these groups:

Each of those organizations require certificants to adhere to educational and ethical standards. These certifications indicate your trainer has learned about dog behavior and training, and uses appropriate training methods. Each has an online directory that you can search according to your location to find a certified dog trainer near you.

With the help of a professional dog trainer and plenty of patience, you and your pup will be on your way to reaching your goals for skills and behavior. Good luck, and remember to have fun!

Expert input provided by Irith Bloom, owner of The Sophisticated Dog training company in Los Angeles, California, whose dog training credentials include CPDT-KSA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, KPA CTP, VSPDT and CBATI.

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How to Get Started With Dog Agility Training, According to the Pros

Lauren Sharkey — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:00:29 +0000

One of the fastest growing dog sports in the US, agility sees dogs race through an obstacle course. Guided by their handlers, they learn to run, jump and weave against the clock, having a whole lot of fun in the process.

You’ve probably seen it on TV and thought: “Wow, I wish my dog could do that.” Well, we’re here to tell you: Your dog absolutely can!

Wondering how to train your dog in agility sports? We spoke to the following experts to get the top dog agility training tips:

Heather Gillihan, CPDT-KA, dog trainer and operations manager for Zoom Room Franchising LLC in Fort Worth, Texas
Janet Velenovsky, CPDT, CDBC, KPA-CTP, ACCBC, pet trainer and behavior consultant and owner of Kaizen Pet Training & Behavior in Montpelier, Virginia
Terri Rodriguez, KPA-CTP, dog trainer and agility competitor
Dr. Sarah J. Wooten, DVM, CVJ, a veterinarian at Sheep Draw Veterinary Hospital in Greeley, Colorado

All About Agility Training for Dogs:

Benefits of Agility Training

Is Your Dog Right for the Sport?

When Can You Start Training?

How to Teach Your Dog Agility

What Are the Benefits of Dog Agility Training?

Even if you never end up in the show ring, there are so many advantages to dog agility training.

Strengthens your bond. Agility is all about working together as a team. It’ll also teach you how to read your dog and communicate effectively.
Can boost your dog’s confidence. If your dog’s nervous, agility can gradually help them feel more confident around objects and even other people and dogs.
Combines physical and mental stimulation.Agility is “awesome exercise for cardio, balance and paw-eye coordination,” says Dr. Wooten. It also mimics natural prey-chasing behavior and requires thinking skills, making it ideal for high-energy dogs.
Can improve your dog’s focus. Teaching your dog to pay attention to you around distractions can motivate them to stick around you in everyday life.

Is Your Dog Right for the Sport of Agility?

You’ll often see Border Collies and other herding dog breeds on the podium at agility events.

“These dogs tend to watch their handlers for cues and have a strong desire to work,” explains Velenovsky. But “any healthy dog can do agility at some level,” she adds. That includes small dogs, like Chihuahuas.

According to Gillihan, it all starts with a strong relationship between dog and human, as well as high drive, Rodriguez adds.

“The dogs with the fastest times are dogs who can not only jump well,” Rodriguez says, “but can also wrap jumps tightly and maneuver the contact obstacles with ease.”

Before starting agility training, it’s recommended to speak to your vet and follow their advice. Because your dog will need to be physically fit and free from pain, check with your vet that your dog is a healthy weight and they have no issues that might impact their ability to use equipment or move around energetically.

“Of course, older dogs can learn agility sports,” says Dr. Wooten; and courses can be modified to suit elderly dogs’ joints and endurance. But new exercise programs for dogs with pre-existing conditions, like heart disease or osteoarthritis, definitely need discussing with a vet.

It’s not just about your dog’s physical condition, though: Your dog’s mental state is also super important.

See how your pup feels about various textures, objects, sounds and heights by watching them explore at home and out on walks. If they don’t seem to enjoy new experiences, agility may not be the best activity.

If you want to join an agility class, you’ll also need to ensure your dog is calm and comfortable around other people and dogs or get professional help to see if you can work towards that.

Have more questions about your pet's behavior? Get expert advice through Chewy’s Connect With a Vet service, available daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.

So, When Can You Start Dog Agility Training?

“As soon as your puppy comes home,” says Rodriguez. This is when you’ll want to focus body awareness, flatwork and basic cues, like moving next to you, staying and recalling around a variety of distractions.

As for cardio—or, as Dr. Wooten describes it, “hardcore cardio”—and impact training?

“[That] training shouldn’t start until a dog is full-grown,” which is around 12 to 18 months of age, depending on the breed, Dr. Wooten says. “This is because excessive high-impact exercise can negatively impact a young, growing skeleton and joints.”

So, to avoid injury, don’t let your dog jump, weave, or perform other repetitive motions until they’re all grown up.

As always, check with your vet when it’s suitable for your dog to start using agility equipment.

How to Teach Your Dog Agility: Beginner’s Tips

Photo: David Midgley/iStock

Get Professional Help

First, “find a positive reinforcement training center [which uses a reward, like treats and praise, for desired behaviors] and coach to help you learn the basic skills” and “encourage a positive relationship between you and your dog,” says Gillihan.

You’ll also need professional help for training your dog to navigate agility obstacles that they’ll physically come into contact with on the course. These are called “contact agility obstacles” and include A-frames, teeters and long dog walks. “Non-contact obstacles,” on the other hand, include jumps, weave poles and tunnels.

“These [contact agility obstacles] can be dangerous if not trained properly,” Rodriguez says.

It’s even a good idea to attend some agility trials, chat to people when they’re not busy with their dogs and potentially volunteer to help, says Velenovsky. “You can learn so much just by watching!”

Check out the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) or American Kennel Club (AKC) for information on local training classes and agility events.

Use Rewards

All techniques will involve rewarding your dog, so try and figure out what treats and toys motivate them the most.

If you’re using food treats, Dr. Wooten recommends “small, ‘gulpable’” ones, like liver training treats or small pieces of deli meat.

“Something that tastes super delicious but doesn’t require any chewing and isn’t heavy on the stomach,” she says.

Anytime you’re training your dog something new, reward your dog every time they do something right (or nearly right). This will encourage them to do the same thing next time.

As your dog strengthens their agility skills, you can gradually phase out rewards. But you should still reward your dog every so often. After all, you don’t work for free—and neither should they!

Practice Skills at Home

If you do want to start teaching some skills by yourself, check out the following home agility training tips for dogs.

Jump

The jump skill is exactly that: A dog jumps over a pole (or broomstick if you’re DIYing your course!) or through a suspended ring or tire. The obstacles themselves are also called jumps. So, the dog jumps over or through jumps; that’s not confusing at all, right?

If your dog’s old enough to try jumping, you don’t need to buy equipment, like tire jumps.

“You could build a makeshift jump with chairs and a broomstick,” says Gillihan. You can even use your own legs to start off with.

Just make sure whatever you create isn’t too high and that the surface you’re training on isn’t too hard or slippery. Rodriguez advises starting with the jump (again, whatever the dog will jump over or through) on the ground, then gradually raising it as your dog becomes more confident.

@maxwell.the.mutt testing how high he can jump🫶 (idea: @codie_alfie_the_springes) he can prob go higher but hes too scared to :/ he did great tho! #healthadepopit #maxwellthemutt #dogagility #dogjump #agilitydog #agilityjump #mutt #smalldog #dogcommunity #dc #dogfyp #dontletthisflop #foryou #fyp #fypシ #smallesttotallest #jumptest #fun #dog #followmepls ♬ original sound - 𝙢𝙖𝙭𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙡🐕

To teach your dog to jump:

Gently restrain your dog on one side of the jump or ask your dog to wait.
Toss something they love, such as a treat or toy, on the other side.
Release your dog. You may need to go over the jump with them to help them out.
Repeat.
When your dog is successfully doing the above, say “jump” as your dog jumps. Repeat a few times.
Now stop tossing the reward over the jump. Release your dog, say “jump,” and give the reward after they’ve jumped.

Tunnel

For the tunnel skills, dogs run through a tunnel, which can be either straight or curved. While proper agility tunnels can be expensive, you can easily DIY one with a sheet over two chairs. The shorter the tunnel, the easier it will be for your dog.

@potsservicedog #tunnel #dog #goldenretriever #play #training ♬ Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) - Edison Lighthouse

To teach your dog to run through a tunnel:

While your dog’s exploring one end of the tunnel, run to the other end or have another person there, encouraging and rewarding them when they make it through.
If they’re still unsure, make it extra fun by sticking your head in the tunnel, tossing treats, and even going through yourself if it’s big enough!
When they’re reliably choosing to go through, start walking towards the tunnel, giving a hand motion towards it, and saying a cue such as “tunnel” as they go through.
Reward every time.

In the future, you can use your cue as they approach the tunnel to ask them to go through.

Weave Poles

The weave pole obstacle is a tricky one. It involves your dog zigzagging through a set of poles, typically 12 of them, spaced 24 inches apart. And if they complete all 12 poles without skipping one, they’ve mastered the art of weave poles.

To start, you’ll need (you guessed it) a set of weave poles. Your dog will also need to be old enough to learn the tricky art of weaving (again, around 12 to 18 months). Here’s a simple way to start training it:

@officialgooddog Way to go @Stephanie and dogs! #agilitytraining #weavepoles #dogagility #dogagilitytraining ♬ Athletic Meet "Heaven and Hell" (No Introduction) - Shinonome

To teach your dog weaving:

Put the poles in one straight line, 24 inches apart.
Move every other pole about a foot away from the line to create a channel that your dog can walk straight through. You may need to show them at first. Reward at the end.
Add in a verbal cue such as “weave” as your dog runs through the channel created by the poles.
When your dog can move through the channel on cue, gradually move the poles closer together so that they’re slowly introduced to weaving around them.
Repeat the above process every time you move the poles closer to the original line.
Once the poles are back in a straight line, tilt the poles at an angle (the first tilted to the left, the next tilted right, the next titled left, and so on), and as your dog walks through, continue to use the “weave” command.
Once your dog is used to the tilted poles, straighten the poles.

Keep Sessions Short

As with most training, shorter sessions are better, Velenovsky says, adding that training a dog in three- to five-minutes intervals, for a total of about 15 to 20 minutes of training, is plenty.

“In between, make sure they get a chance for water, rest and maybe a bit of play,” Velenovsky says.

Just remember: Agility should be fun for your dog.

“Stop the session before [your] dog wants to stop,” Rodriguez says. If they achieve a big step, “quit there and give lots of praise and treats” so they can walk away feeling accomplished.

The Lowdown

When it comes down to it, agility can be a great tool to provide exercise, brain stimulation, and help to build a stronger bond with your dog, Rodriguez says.

“But [your] dog should enjoy the tasks at hand or feel some sort of accomplishment after playing,” Rodriguez says. “If you watch your dog closely and read their body language, they will tell you if it is something they are enjoying.”

If you and your dog are into it, you can work towards agility competitions, but there’s no pressure to reach that level. When you keep trainings fun, it will help keep both you and your dog motivated. And if your dog doesn’t seem that keen or they’re not physically able, why not try another activity such as nose work? This is a sport where dogs sniff out different scent, and it’s another great way to learn how to improve communication between you and your canine companion! Plus, it’s fun—and who doesn’t want that?

The post How to Get Started With Dog Agility Training, According to the Pros appeared first on BeChewy.