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OBEDIENCE

Not only will your junior dog be developing physically, they will also be changing mentally. Always bear in mind that during training your dog may go through phases of rebellion.

If you feel that you might benefit from training classes, ask your vet to recommend one for you. Through training classes, your dog will not only learn to be more obedient, but they will be acquainted and socialised with plenty of other dogs as well. A training course that your vet may recommend is the Kennel Club Good Citizen Scheme

This is the largest dog training scheme in the UK. Their aim is to teach your dog to respond to your commands, as well as bringing you and your dog closer together. To find out more, call The Kennel Club on 0870 606 6750 or alternatively log on to www.the-kennel-club.org.uk

BASIC TRAINING TIPS

If you and your dog are still mastering the basics, here are a few tips that should help you on your way to train your dog.

TOP TIP

It’s always a good idea to reward your dog during training. It will encourage them to be more obedient if they are rewarded immediately when they deserve it. Let’s face it, everybody loves treats.

THE SIT COMMAND

STEP 1: Approach your standing dog. Kneel down and attract their attention by calling their name.
STEP 2: When they look at you, show them the treat in your hand.
STEP 3: Hold the treat near their nose then move it as if you are going to put it on his head. Your dog should follow your hand with his nose.
STEP 4: The position your dog is in now, will make it hard for them stand. Thus, they should automatically begin to sit.
STEP 5: Remain consistent on vocalising the SIT command. As soon as they display obedience, give them the treat.

It’s as simple as that.

TOP TIP

A lot of further training involves other variations of the SIT command. Once this command is mastered it will be easier to teach them others.

THE HEEL COMMAND

STEP 1: Make sure you and your dog are in a safe area, as your dog will not have a lead on.
STEP 2: Get your dog to SIT on your left hand side. Have some treats ready in your left hand.
STEP 3: Put one treat in the right hand and shake the left hand a little to get their attention to focus on the treats. This slight shake of the hand will be the signal for HEEL command.
STEP 4: Take 3 steps forward and shake the left hand again, keeping it on the left side. Your dog should follow you with his nose towards your left hand, until you stop.
STEP 5: Get them to STAY, and give them the treat from your right hand.
STEP 6: Repeat many times, taking larger amounts of steps, until he learns that when you say HEEL he must follow on your left side, with his nose towards your hand