A small dog could defy one’s patience more than a large dog. Ultimately, every dog has its character, and the key is that the owner develops a good relationship with the dog if they want to succeed in small dog training.
Essential Pointers On Small Dog Training
- Never intimidate the dog
Some small dogs may feel intimidated if they see their owner loom above them. Being small, they could feel helpless, and rather than focus on your order; they will end up feeling anxious and react negatively. So one should kneel next to it or get down on the floor so that it sees the owner as his friend, not just a master.
- Use positive reinforcement
Instruction, in its nature, is rewarding both for the person who is instructed, and the person who instructs, and the same goes for dog training as well. There are a lot of essential factors that should be taken into account. The most important one, when it comes to training dogs, definitely is positive reinforcement.
There is no need to shout, but be assertive instead. Each time the dog understands and obeys a command, encourage him by giving rewards for his positive behavior.
So one should never resort to shouting orders or spanks. Praising, patting, and kissing are some of the ways one can use to demonstrate that the dog is doing well. Some small dog training treats can be extremely productive too.
Other Tips on Small Dog Training
- Always start with simple stuff
The best way to start is to try and teach your dog simple commands. These include sit and stay. Other more ‘complicated’ commands, such as rollover, can be left for later.
- Be very patient
Patience is the key here. One needs to be as patient as a school teacher is with a young child. Never give up on the dog. He may need a lot of repetition, but in time he will master the commands given to him.
- Consider attending a course
It is essential to teach a dog to be obedient, but also, the dog must know and feel that his owner is his friend and that they love him. The best way to start the instruction is to check out how the dog training specialists do it. It may be a good idea to consider attending a course.
- Earn the dog’s attention
One must earn the dog’s attention. Just like larger dogs, small dogs have a short attention span. So orders need to be short and concise, yet very consistent. One should establish clear authority yet be friendly so as not to frighten the dog.
These small dog training tips should prove to be helpful. A small dog training collar or a small dog training harness could be useful, but they will never be as effective as one’s patience and confidence in making it work. The dog needs to feel that his/her owner believes in it. Small dog training is ultimately all about patience and repetition.
