If there is any magic ingredient in training, consistency is it. Consistency makes the dog’s task of learning appropriate behaviors easier. Dogs don’t understand gray areas, such as “sometimes”, “perhaps”, and “maybe”. Therefore, be consistent in the demands you place on your pet. Work with other family members to decide which rules he must obey and always enforce them. Don’t confuse your pet by sometimes allowing him to do unacceptable things. This will result in haphazard training and can have disastrous effects.
Training your pet requires a commitment on your part. You have to work hard to get your dog to learn effectively and respond appropriately to you. Training your dog often becomes a matter of who is more persistent. Some things will be learned easily and others will take more time. Keep trying, until you achieve success. Be patient and remain calm. It may take many repetitions before your dog understands a command and responds each and every time. You are expected to attend class and required to practice the exercises you learn at home. Practicing on a daily basis and integrating learned behaviors into your dog’s daily routine yield the best results.
As stated above, a satisfying relationship is based upon communication. Your dog communicates with you in many ways. But, if he could talk, he might say:
You can force me obey, but
you won’t be proud of the way I work.
Be kind and I will please you!
Play with me! I’m always ready for a game!
Give me lots of praise for I prize it above all.
Be fair.
Make sure that I understand what you want.
Have patience, for I can only absorb so much.
Be consistent so that I won’t be confused.
Give me confidence and security.
Flatter me, if you like!
Training is hard work. Don’t over train me.
Keep me from getting bored.
I can get into trouble when I’m bored.
Don’t expect miracles. Habits are hard to break.
Work with me at our relationship.
Change some of your behaviors too.
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