To help with your pet’s training, we are providing some helpful tips on the techniques we use at the shelter. And, for consistency, always use the same commands and the same release word. A release word is the word you use when the dog is allowed to stop a behavior such as sitting or laying down.
“No” This term is used to correct your dog for wrong or bad behavior. Your voice should be stern, but do not yell or scream. After telling him/her “no” to correct the behavior you should praise the dog. When praising your dog use happy, high pitched tones, as if you were talking to a baby, at a normal voice level.
“Off” This term is used to keep dogs from jumping on people. When your dog jumps on you, cross your arms, turn away and ignore them. Do not give them any attention until all four paws are on the floor.
“Sit” Take a treat and pass it up and over their nose. Not too high that they jump, but not so close they can grab it. Once the rump is on the floor praise the dog while giving them the treat.
“Stay” Start right up next to your dog, add the hand signal (a hand stop sign) and count to 3. If they stayed praise/treat them. Work on gradually adding time and distance.
“Down”. Place your dog in SIT. Take a treat and trace it from their nose, down to their paws then out in front of them. Encourage your dog to follow the treat all the way ‘down’.
For more information on teaching basic cues, go to:
https://positively.com/dog-behavior/basic-cues/
Training Voices
Cue Voice: Unemotional, regular voice. No need to raise the pitch of the voice or the volume.
Praising Voice: Happy, energetic. Make sure you have a smile on your face and loose, happy body posture.
Treats
For training purposes, use small treats or pieces of your dogs food. During the training period only, you can use chopped beef or chicken hot dogs, cheese or chicken. Keep an eye on your dog’s weight during training. Due to all the extra treats, you may need to cut back on their regular diet.
For more information on using food and other rewards, go to:
https://positively.com/dog-training/positive-training/the-value-of-rewards/
