A Few Words About Dog (Obedience) Training

The basis for good relationships between dogs and people is basically the same as most relationships. It has to be based on trust, security, consistency and caring. If any of these ingredients are missing the dog will have trouble in its relationship and behavior, leaving the owner with the feeling that he has a "difficult dog".

A dog will happily know its place and what is expected of him as long as its owners know what they want from it. More importantly, most animals want to know where they stand "in their pack." It gives them security and confidence. They do not want to be treated like humans. They want to be loved and respected for what they are - a dog; and as such, they can thrive. A dog who is trained is a happy dog. But the way to a well trained dog may be fraught with minefields.

Not every breed or any age lends itself to every level of training. Some breeds are genetically bred to accept commands more readily. In many cases, mixed breeds may be easier to train then certain pure breeds. Each type of breed may need a different type of training. To harshly train one breed may break its spirit and a too lenient training in an other will simply be wasting your time as well as the dogs. If a dog is too old or too young, training will be hampered as well.

All professional trainer and breeder emphasize the same idea; obedience training will enhance your relationship with your dog. Good training is only one step in building a strong relationship between the animal and its owner. It cannot be emphasized enough: good training can be undone very quickly by giving into a whine, or simply by not having the patience to give the proper command. The most spectacular results netted by the best trainer will have no lasting effect if you are not committed to changing the dogs behavior.

Tips for Success:

• You are the leader of the pack
• Your dog does not pull YOU when you are walking
• Your dog does not eat from the table
• Your dog will obey when called..
• Your dog will not come into your living room or bedroom should you decide that these spaces are off limits.
• Your dog will not jump on the couch or bed - should you decide that it is not proper behavior.
• Your dog will not jump on people. period.
• Your dog will not chew the furniture.
• Your dog does not bite ( unless it was specifically trained as such by a professional)

Once a dog is properly trained, it remains for you the owner to see that it does not revert back to its old traits. This is no different from refusing to accept certain behaviors from a child – the key is not to mix messages.

Training a dog is a family project. Everyone must be committed to the process. Remember –it only takes one member to confuse the dog and destroy the hard work.

Do not expect the trainer to perform miracles. Through hard work and consistency , the trainer can bring out the positive traits of your specific breed. By bringing your dog to a trainer you are taking a great step in helping your dog live a fuller, happier and more rewarding life, and thereby accepting the responsibility that you and your family are the most important beings in developing your dogs' attitudes and behavior.

A final word: every psychologist knows that without reward and reprimands behavior cannot be modified. This being said a dog can get so used to NO or Bad dog that it will not even relate to it. Every reprimand must be followed by a good word or reward when the dog does listen to you.

This is the start - the rest is in your hands.

Yochai Birnbaum
Licensed Professional Dog Trainer and Para-Veterinarian
Magen David Yarok (Green Star of David)