How to Train a Dog

Introduction
The key to proper training is positive reinforcement using treats and unlimited praise. Be patient and avoid harsh punishment, and you and your dog will both benefit.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Steps
1
Step One
Enroll your dog in a basic obedience class to learn the 'Heel,' 'Sit' and 'Stay' commands.
2
Step Two
When your dog is learning a command, say 'Good' the instant she exhibits proper behavior, and then follow up quickly with a reward of treats and more praise.
3
Step Three
Begin increasing your expectations very slowly. For example, lengthen by a few seconds the time your dog must sit before you shower praise.
4
Step Four
Reward even the slightest sign of effort your dog is making to meet your increasing expectations.
5
Step Five
Move on to other commands once your dog is comfortable with 'Heel,' 'Sit' and 'Stay,' and with training in general.
6
Step Six
Train throughout the day, when you have free time, in a quiet area free from distractions. Limit each session to 5 to 10 minutes.
7
Step Seven
Train in a busier environment only after your dog understands the command entirely, but realize that you may need to start from scratch because dogs are situational learners.
8
Step Eight
Reduce food rewards gradually, but always give an abundance of praise.

Dog Training is EASY and PAINLESS when you know how!

How to Train Your Dog to Bark on Command

Introduction
Training your dog to bark on command has another hidden feature - you can also train her to stop barking on command.
Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Steps
1
Step One
Hold a particular toy, such as a ball or squeak toy that causes your dog to bark. Give the command BARK or SPEAK.
2
Step Two
When your dog barks say, GOOD.
3
Step Three
Give him the toy or food as a reward and praise him.
4
Step Four
Repeat steps 1 through 3 until your dog understands the command to bark.
5
Step Five
When your dog understands the command, command him to bark.
6
Step Six
After three barks say, QUIET or SILENCE or any other word(s) to command him not to bark. Praise and reward him with the toy.
7
Step Seven
Repeat steps 5 and 6 until he understands the command.
8
Step Eight
Instead of using a toy, have someone knock on the door and repeat steps 2 through 7, rewarding him with praise and affection when he succeeds.

How to Stop Your Dog From Digging Up the Lawn

Things You'll Need
Dog Bones
Dog Dishes
Dog Leashes
Dog Toys
Dog Training Aids
Dog Treats
Electronic Fences
Shovels


Steps
1
Step One
Avoid punishing your dog for digging ' this only teaches her not to dig in your presence. She may resume digging when you're not around.
2
Step Two
Take her on walks. Dogs often dig to expend energy, and walking is a less destructive way to accomplish this.
3
Step Three
Put up a fence to keep your dog out of areas ' like your well-manicured lawn ' where you don't want her to dig.
4
Step Four
Confine your dog in a dog run with toys, shade and water.
5
Step Five
Keep your dog's sleeping area shaded in hot weather, and supply a wading pool if it's hot outside. Dogs often dig in search of a cool place to lie down.
6
Step Six
Turn on the sprinklers or spray your dog with a hose each time she starts digging ' this may discourage her from digging if she doesn't like water sprayed on her.
Tips & Warnings
Digging is often a result of boredom, so keep your dog occupied with other activities.
Give your dog her own place to dig ' a sandbox or dirt area ' and encourage digging in only that spot by hiding treats for her to find. This allows your dog to enjoy the natural behavior of digging without ruining your yard.

Find out all you NEED to know and stay in control of your dog!