Top 10 dog training tips for Catonsville, MD

It is never too early or late to start training your dog. Here are some simple tips to get started.

1. Remember, your dog is a dog and reacts as a dog; not a human. Take time to learn the basics about canine behavior and learning. Check out some positive-reinforcement training books from a Baltimore County library .
2. Your dog’s overall health plays a big role in behavior. Check with your vet to make sure his diet is right for him. Every breed and individual has different needs.Both you and your dog will relieve stress, anxiety and feel better with regular aerobic exercise.
3. Walk your dog regularly; daily whenever possible. Check out the dog park at Hannah More in Reisterstown. State parks with pet trails can be found on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources web site.
4. Do you know where your dog is? If you can’t watch him in his crate or other place he will be safe and comfortable. Do not give your dog “too much freedom, too fast”. Leaving a dog unattended in a fenced yard for long periods is not acceptable. Ignoring a dog invites unwanted behaviors. Make sure your dog is licensed in the event he does stray.
5. Look for potential dangers or opportunities for trouble BEFORE they happen. Do not try to punish him after the fact. He already got what he wanted!
6. Set your priorities. First focus on the basics, like housetraining and good manners, then move on to obedience or tricks.
7. Dogs love routine. Knowing what to expect brings a sense of security and confidence. Maintaining a routine also further controls their environment, thus establishing leadership.
8. If there is something your dog loves to do, find an acceptable outlet for the behavior. Avid chewers need tons of different chew toys to keep them busy. Diggers can have special doggie sandboxes made specifically for them. Use your imagination!
9. Dogs should be handled constantly. You should be able to touch your dog anywhere without him pulling away. If you have a puppy, make it a daily practice to rub him all over; including ears, paws and checking his mouth. Dogs resistant to touches should be approached gradually. Never force yourself on a dog. Make the experience pleasant; the dog will associate good feelings with being handled.
10. Enroll in a good positive-reinforcement training course. Effective learning requires a physically and emotionally safe environment. Stay away from punishment or dominance theory-based methods of training. These compromise your dog’s trust. A good class teaches you to properly encourage and reward good behavior.

Learning is a lifelong process. Even skills your dog has down pat need to consistently be reinforced. Take advanced classes in obedience or organized dogs sports. Volunteering with your dog Therapy Dogs International, The Delta Society and R.E.A.D. are some national programs worth considering.