How To Train A Stubborn Dog?

Fed up with your determined canine companion? Are you frustrated by the never-ending cycle of wet carpets and those unwelcome 2 AM wake-up calls due to relentless barking? Are you weary of being the one pulled around at the park and feeling embarrassed during your trips to the pet store? Managing your dog's behavior might seem intimidating, but by dissecting it into manageable steps, victory can be yours.

Basic Dog Obedience Techniques

Discover these fundamental dog training techniques, designed to be mastered by your furry friend within just a few short weeks:

• Walking on a leash
• Refraining from barking
• Sitting (and staying)
• Potty training

Walking on a leash

Dealing with your four-legged companion constantly tugging on the leash can be challenging, making it difficult to maintain a firm grip. An effective technique to tackle this issue is the widely recognized "circle method." When you're out for a walk with your dog, and they suddenly start pulling, follow these steps:

1. Employ Commonly Accepted Disapproval: Use familiar negative verbal cues to signal your dissatisfaction with their behavior.
2. Change Direction: Begin walking in the opposite direction immediately. If your dog pulls ahead, promptly pivot and walk back in the opposite direction.
3. Maintain Consistency: Stay resolute and unwavering. Continue this circular pattern until your furry friend realizes that pulling leads to changes in direction, which isn't what they want.
4. Reinforce Good Behavior: Offer positive reinforcement once your dog ceases pulling and walks alongside you without tension on the leash. This can be in praise, treats, or affection, so they understand that walking calmly is the desired behavior.

By implementing the circle method consistently, you can convey to your furry companion that walking obediently results in rewards, making your walks more enjoyable for both of you.

Refraining from barking

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your canine companion starts barking at night? Indeed, your dog isn't barking without any cause. While you might initially be puzzled, barking can be attributed to various reasons, such as hunger, the need for a bathroom break, fear, or even sheer excitement. However, if your dog enjoys barking excessively, you can attempt to quiet them down by using a low, authoritative voice while saying "hush." Give it a try, and it does the trick!

Sitting (and staying)

Dealing with frustration can be expected when your dog doesn't grasp the straightforward "sit" command. In such moments, it's crucial to remain patient and employ this straightforward technique. All you'll need is a dog treat to get started. Follow these steps:

1. Secure the Treat: Position the dog treat between your thumb and index finger above your head.
2. Gain Their Attention: Ask your dog to focus on you using a simple "watch me" command.
3. Issue the "Sit" Command: Once your dog maintains eye contact, instruct them to "sit."
4. Lower the Treat Gradually: As your dog sits down, slowly lower your hand, bringing the Treat closer to their nose.
5. Reward Their Compliance: Once your furry companion successfully sits, reward them with the Treat.
6. Consistent Practice: Repeat this exercise regularly until your dog becomes accustomed to the "sit" command without needing a treat.

With patience and persistence, you'll find that your dog learns to sit on command reliably, making training sessions more enjoyable and effective for both of you.

Potty training

Are you tired of dealing with your persistent four-legged friend leaving surprises around your home? This unfortunate scenario is likely the result of insufficient potty training. The good news is that there is always time to rectify the situation. Here's a straightforward approach to address this issue:

1. Choose the Designated Area: Begin by selecting the specific spot where you want your furry companion to relieve themselves.
2. Break Down the Treat: Break a treat into several small pieces.
3. Place the Treats Strategically: Scatter these treat pieces at increasing distances from the chosen potty spot, with the last piece directly on the desired location.
4. Use a Command: As your dog finds the final treat piece, consistently use a chosen command, such as "potty," while in the act.
5. Lavish Praise: Show your pup abundant praise and affection if they follow your instructions. You can also reward them with more treats as a bonus for cooperation.
6. Persistence Pays Off: Don't be discouraged if your initial attempts don't yield the desired results. Continue practicing until your dog consistently understands and follows the "potty" command.

By consistently applying this method, you can effectively train your dog to use the designated potty area and eliminate accidents indoors.

Additional Tips To Enhance Your Dog's Training Experience

In addition to guiding your "stubborn" canine companion toward the correct behavior, there are several other vital pointers to keep in mind during the training process:

1. Accentuate the Positive: Focus on reinforcing desired behaviors with positive reinforcement rather than dwelling on the negative aspects of your dog's behavior.
2. Use Appropriate Gear: When training your dog, opt for a harness or leash over a choke collar, as it promotes a more humane and effective training approach.
3. Employ Their Name: Incorporate your dog's name frequently during training sessions. This practice helps your furry friend better understand and respond to your commands.
4. Be Assertive: At times, it's beneficial to assertively demand your dog's attention rather than merely asking for it. Consistent leadership can facilitate smoother training outcomes.

Training a seemingly disobedient or "stubborn" dog can be challenging. It necessitates a significant amount of patience and a calm demeanor from your side. Remember, successful training is within reach with perseverance and dedication. So, don't hesitate any longer – let's embark on this rewarding journey!