Why Should You Train Your Dog
We've all been there. We're out for a lovely walk with our dog. The weather has been a bit damp but now the sun is out and we are making the most of it. We stop to say hello to a passer by (who is always dressed head to toe in white) and our dog decides to jump up and join in the conversation. We now have to apologise profusely for the muddy footprints all over the innocent victim and we head home in shame.
I'm sure you can think of many other scenarios where your dog has done something they shouldn't, or not done something you wanted them to. This can be upsetting for you, upsetting for the dog and ultimately dangerous for all of you (think of your dog running across a road and not being able to call it back). When you train your dog many of these concerns disappear and you are then able to relax and enjoy life much more easily. Even basic dog training such as being able to recall your dog, make him sit and stop him from jumping up can instantly open up a whole range of new places and activities you can enjoy together.
Avoiding Dog Behavior Problems Before They Start
Dogs don't naturally know how to behave in our society. They are pack animals and for an untrained dog pack rules still apply. This has many far reaching implications. For example, in a pack dogs have to work out where they come in the pecking order. They do this in a number of ways but partly by looking at how you treat them. For example when you invite your dog onto the chair to sit with you you're giving him a promotion. If he eats before you or your children he sees himself as more important. This can lead to your dog becoming aggressive when you or someone else in your family tries to make him do something he doesn't want to.
By training your dog (and your family) you are showing him what he's expected to do and how he is expected to behave. You're giving him the social skills he needs to fit in with your family and become the great companion you want him to be.
Training Your Dog is Being Kind To Him
When done correctly dog training can be loads of fun for you and your dog. You get to develop a very close bond with your pet and you get the confidence to take him where you want to go with the knowledge that you can control him and his behaviour. Your dog gets lots of quality time with you, lots of mental and physical stimulation and learn is how to please you and the rest of your family - much much better than being shouted at all the time!
By not training your dog you will get frustrated, he will get frustrated and the whole relationship starts to fall apart.
So make a start today. Have a look at the SitStayFetch package we recommend on the right. It's a great way to train your dog and the free six-day course gives you a real flavour of what it's about before you part with any money. It worked for us and I'm sure it will work for you.
