Training a naughty, disobedient dog can be a challenging task, we are not all Cesar Milan. But with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it is possible to turn even the most mischievous pup into a well-behaved companion. In this article, we will explore some of the easiest and most effective ways to train your naughty dog, so you can enjoy a happy and harmonious relationship.
1. Why are they like that?
Over 38% of people in the U.S. are dog owners. A lot of these people, however, do not know how to ascertain why their dog is behaving irrationally and why are they causing problems. An important factor in training your naughty dog is to understand why they are exhibiting problematic behavior in the first place. Common causes of naughty behavior include boredom, lack of exercise, lack of structure, fear, and insecurity. Understanding the root cause of your dog’s behavior can help you develop a training plan that is tailored to their individual needs.
For example, if your dog is exhibiting destructive behavior because of boredom, increasing the amount of exercise and mental stimulation they receive can help alleviate this problem. On the other hand, if your dog is exhibiting fearful or insecure behavior, it may be necessary to work with a professional dog behaviorist to help address these issues. And one way of providing your dog with structure and a sense of security is to establish a daily routine. This can include set times for exercise, meals, and training sessions, as well as set routines for bedtime and wake-up time. A consistent routine can help reduce stress and provide your dog with a sense of stability and security.
2. Positive reinforcement training
Positive reinforcement training is one of the most effective and humane ways to train your dog. This type of training focuses on rewarding good behavior, rather than punishing bad behavior. To get started with positive reinforcement training, you will need to choose a reward that your dog loves, such as treats, praise, or playtime. Whenever your dog performs the desired behavior, reward them immediately with their chosen reward.
For example, if you want to train your dog to sit, hold a treat above its head and say “sit.” When your dog sits, give them the treat and praise them with a happy tone of voice. Repeat this process several times a day until your dog associates the command “sit” with the act of sitting and the reward of the treat and praise. Thankfully, Dog Wise Day Care offers the best training for disobedient dogs, so you should check them out. Who knows, you might be sold by their charm.
3. Consistency is key
Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog, as dogs respond best to routine and structure. Make sure that everyone in the household is using the same commands and rewards, and that everyone is following the same training schedule. This will help prevent confusion and ensure that your dog is learning at a consistent pace.
4. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
Naughty dogs often exhibit problematic behavior when they are bored or have excess energy. Providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation can help reduce this type of behavior. Regular exercises, such as walks and playtime, can help burn off energy and provide mental stimulation. Additionally, interactive toys and puzzles can provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom.
5. Use time-outs
Time-outs are an effective way to correct bad behavior and can be used in conjunction with positive reinforcement training. When your dog exhibits naughty behavior, calmly say “no” and place them in a designated time-out area, such as a crate or a separate room. After a short period of time, release them and return to positive reinforcement training.
6. Avoid physical punishment
Long are gone the days of beating your dog into obedience. Physical punishment, such as hitting or shaking your dog, is not an effective or humane way to train your dog. This type of punishment can cause fear and anxiety, and can even make the behavior worse. Instead, stick to positive reinforcement training and time-outs to correct bad behavior.
7. Enroll in a training class
Teaching has changed. As we learn more about the world around us we change our approach to these topics in order to better interact with them. And canine training is no different. Enrolling in a training class can be a great way to learn new training techniques and receive support from a professional trainer. Training classes can also provide an opportunity for you and your dog to socialize and make new friends. Look for a training class that uses positive reinforcement techniques and avoid classes that use physical punishment or harsh methods.
8. Practice patience
Training a naughty dog can take time and patience, so it’s important to be persistent and avoid giving up. Remember, every dog is different, and some may take longer to train than others. Stay positive, consistent, and patient, and you will see results.
9. Start using verbal commands
Another easy way to train your naughty dog is to use hand signals in conjunction with verbal commands. This can be particularly effective for dogs who have difficulty hearing or have hearing loss, as well as dogs who may have trouble understanding verbal commands. Using hand signals can also help increase your dog’s focus and concentration, making training sessions more effective.
All in all, training a naughty dog can be a challenge, but with the right techniques, patience, and consistency, it is possible to turn even the most mischievous pup into a well-behaved companion. It’s important to remember that training is a lifelong process and that even well-behaved dogs can benefit from continued training and reinforcement. Regular training sessions can help maintain good behavior and prevent problematic behavior from re-emerging. Whatever you choose, the key to success is consistency and patience. With these techniques and a little understanding, you can help your naughty dog become a happier and more obedient companion for the rest of your life.
