Dog Obedience Training Tips

Obedience training is one of the best things you can ever do for your dog and yourself. Training opens up a line of communication between the two of you and is the foundation for teaching good manners, social and companionable behaviour around other dogs and people, and overcoming many behavioural problems.

A well-trained dog is respectful of you, your family and friends and, in the case of a shy dog, often become more confident. Responsible dog ownership is essential in today’s world and Obedience Training is at the heart of enjoying sharing your life with your dog.

  • Be consistent with your training.
  • Do not train if you are in a bad mood or upset.
  • Practise your hand signals and footwork without your dog until you perfect them.
  • Keep your hand signals clear and precise.
  • Do not flap your arms when you walk.
  • Use an appropriate collar and lead.
  • Don’t wear clothes that flap in your dog’s face.
  • Treats are not just food, they can be a tug with a toy or a scratch under the chin.
  • Use your dog’s name to get their attention and then give the cue.
  • Use a happy, enthusiastic voice.
  • Use the marker word ‘Yes’ as soon as the action is performed.
  • Eliminate the word ‘No’ from your vocabulary.
  • Use varied high reward treats.
  • Jackpot treats occasionally for perfect performance.
  • Don’t repeat a cue, if the dog fails to perform an action take a step forward and repeat the cue.
  • Don’t reward mistakes.
  • Do not reprimand a failed exercise; just move on and repeat.
  • Use a release word such as “Free” or “Relax” at the end of an exercise.
  • Never shout at your dog.
  • Give your dog 100% of your attention if you expect them to give you theirs.
  • Learn to walk in a straight line!
  • Stop if you’re not having fun.