There are a number of popular dog training techniques and it can be overwhelming to determine which one will be better for you. Additionally, there is disparity within the professional dog training community regarding which techniques are ethical and effective. Furthermore, a number of these training techniques overlap or are utilized in tandem to get the best results. Below are some of the most popular dog training procedures used today:
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Continue reading the article below to learn more about the dog training process and the types of training we provide.
Types of Dog Training
Positive Reinforcement
There is a fairly straightforward theory behind this. Good behavior will be repeated by the dog when it is followed up by a reward. Bad behavior is not acknowledged or rewarded. If punishment occurs, it is in the form of removing rewards, like a treat or toy being taken away. Physical punishments or harsh reprimands are unnecessary. This training technique starts with immediately rewarding a desired behavior so the dog can associate the reward with the behavior.
Electronic Training
This involves using an electric collar to spray citronella or deliver a shock when the dog is not doing a desired task; it is mainly used for training from a distance in the absence of a leash. For instance, electric collars can be used to train a dog to remain within an unfenced boundary. A remote collar trains dogs to do hunting work or work in fields. Individuals using these devices claim there is less risk of the dog being hurt by mechanical devices like a choke collar.
There are a number of issues with this type of training. It heavily relies on punishing the animal for bad behavior rather than using rewards. This means the dog learns what it should not do, instead of what it should do. Another issue is that it could result in permanent anxiety issues.
Clicker Training
This is based on operant training and heavily depends on the same ideologies as positive reinforcement. Actually, clicker training could be clustered in as a positive reinforcement technique, instead of its own type of training. A device is used to make a sharp, quick noise like a whistle to signal to the animal when a required behavior is performed.
The benefit of this training is that it indicates the precise moment the desired behavior is accomplished and precisely what behavior is being rewarded. The clicker can be used to shape new behaviors and verbal commands can be added.
Mirror or Model-rival Training Method
This is driven by the fact that dogs learn while observing. By giving an example of good behavior or an opponent to contend for resources, dogs are taught to imitate behaviors. Therefore, a trainer may have another person act as the model, scolding them for undesirable behavior or fawning over them for doing tasks on command. As an observer, the dog learns from the model what to do.
The same principle is used for mirror training by using the owner as a model and then providing rewards for imitating good behavior. It incorporates the natural instincts of the dogs to operate socially rather than working against them.
Relationship-based Training
This method combines many different training techniques; however, it concentrates on a more customized approach for both owner and dog. Everything is driven by the relationship between human and dog. This technique strives to satisfy the needs of the trainer and the dog to strengthen their bond and to foster communication.
The owner has to be aware of how to read the body language of the dog to know the rewards by which the dog is most motivated and how to meet the basic needs of the dog before the start of each training session. Good behaviors are encouraged by positive reinforcement. The environment is controlled to restrict possible unwanted behaviors.
Scientific Training
It can be challenging to define science-based dog training as it is dependent on consistently building and changing information. It aims to understand the nature of the dog, its capacity to be conditioned and how effective the punishments and rewards are. New experiments and studies are consistently being created by animal behaviorists to help us to understand dog psychology. These studies are relied on by trainers to work with dogs. Everything about the behavior should be understood before it is corrected.
Science-based dog training is very broad; therefore, it is difficult to pinpoint a primary methodology behind it. Actually, a number of the techniques used in this procedure are used in other types of training. Generally, there is a dependence on operant training, which includes positive reinforcement mainly and other forms of punishment.
Puppy Training
Obedience training for puppies helps your pet in learning his role in both the family and the world. It teaches the skills needed to interact with other animals and with the individuals both inside and outside the home. This is the first step to avoiding negative behaviors and imparting knowledge about healthy behaviors. Typically, dogs begin their training by being taught simple commands like “stay” and “sit.” However, they can be trained later in more particular ways like remaining in a crate without whining. The best aspect of training your dog at home is that your efforts can be personalized to your lifestyle and your dog.
Dog Leash Training
A leash assists in understanding the reactions and responses of your dog. Extensive training sessions are eased out for both the dog and the handler. However, dog leash training can be challenging as dogs are faster than humans. A leash assists in constraining dog behavior and movement. The art of dog leash training involves training the dog to walk without pulling. Bear in mind that this type of training requires great patience since dogs do not have instinctive knowledge of getting pulled behind. Leash training is one of the most advantageous skills you could teach your dog.
Potty Training
There is truly only one suitable methodology for potty training your dog, regardless of age, is positive reinforcement. The ideal time for potty training is when it is between 12 and 16 weeks old. There are three main techniques that can assist you in potty training your dog, as highlighted below:
• Paper Training
This is especially beneficial for dog parents who do not have a backyard or those who do not work from home. As it relates to paper training, it is important to place the pad in the same spot so your pet will not become confused.
• Crate Training
This includes getting crate that is big enough for the puppy to turn around, stand up and lay down. The core concept behind this technique is that the animal will not go potty where it sleeps or eats; therefore, it will be more likely to hold it until it gets to a more appropriate place.
• Scheduled Walks
This technique is the most ideal since they are being taught to go outside, instead of inside the home.
No Bark Training
It is unreasonable to expect a dog to never bark; however, there are dogs that bark excessively. If this is your experience, the first step should involve figuring out the cause of the excessive barking. Once it has been established, the issue can be addressed with practice, time, proper techniques and consistency.
To start the process, resist the urge to yell and speak firmly and calmly. The majority of dogs will not understand what you expect when you are yelling for them to shut up. As such, you should train your dog to recognize and obey the word “quiet.”
Agility Training
Agility training provides a remarkable method of getting rid of excess energy in your dog. Passing through a course that involves running through and over a variation of obstacles will challenge the mind and body of your dog. Getting your dog involved in agility will assist in strengthening its muscles, enhancing fitness, improving coordination and boosting endurance.
back to menu ↑Dog Training Process
The dog training process involves socializing your puppy or dog to be accepting of new people, new animals and a variety of places through exposure to these things. Dogs that are properly socialized are less likely to have behavioral issues and are typically more welcoming of others and more readily welcomed by others. Additionally, socialization can assist in preventing the development of phobias. Essentially, socializing your puppy or dog will make for a better-behaved and happier pet.
back to menu ↑Why Hire our Company – Fuzzy Faces Dog Training
A remarkable dog trainer could make all difference whether exposing your dog to basic training or advanced sports-related training. That adjective perfectly describes Fuzzy Faces Dog Training. We are the number 1 rated dog training company and our training is geared towards dogs of all different sizes, ages, breeds and personalities. Call us or visit our Nashville location page for further details on our offerings.
back to menu ↑Dog Rescues/Pet Shelters/Dog Clubs Near Nashville
Below is a listing of some of the animal-related institutions near Nashville
• Agape Animal Rescue
[email protected], (615) 406 -7799
P.O. Box 292766, Nashville, Tennessee 37229-2766
• Camp Chaos 37206
campchaos37206.org
East Nashville, Tennessee
• Greyhound Pets of America
[email protected], (615) 269 -4088
P.O. Box 1042, Goodlettsville, Tennessee 37070
• Nashville Humane Association
nashvillehumane.org, (615) 352 -1010
213 Oceola Ave, Nashville, Tennessee 37209
• Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
[email protected]
PO Box 93, Mount Juliet, Tennessee 37121
• Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue
snootygiggles.com
Thompsons Station, Tennessee
• The Porch at Zavu’s Place
www.theporchatzavusplace.com (615) 856-2737
9142 Horton Highway, College Grove, Tennessee 37046
Places/Parks to Walk your Dog in Nashville
The dog-friendly places include:
• Ellington Agricultural Center
• Fort Granger/Pinkerton Park
• Narrows of the Harpeth
• Long Hunter State Park
• Deerwood Arboretum
• Percy Warner Park
• Radnor Lake
• The Trails at Fontanel