Although many different approaches to dog training exist, one common aspect is the use positive reinforcement. Posititve reinforcement is the act of increasing the likelihood of a behavior due to the additional reinforcer following the desired behavior. In other words, by using treats and positive praise following successful training exercises the dog is likely to repeat the positive behavior. By using positive reinforcement, one element of stress, fear, will be removed and allow both you and your dog to be at ease during training.
The particular training program chosen will be dependent upon which works best for you and your dog. Regardless of the program chosen, there are three aspects of training that will have adverse effects. The three common mistakes include treating the dog as a subject rather than a partner, impatience and inconsistency.
Treating the Dog as a Subject Rather than a Partner
The first aspect of dog training is to remember that there are two participants involved in the training process, you and the dog.
By remembering that the dog is not a tool to be commanded over but a partner to be worked with, one of the harder aspects of training will be lifted. Working with your dog to attain success during training exercise allows for an enjoyable activity between friends, rather than a daunting chore.
Impatience
Dog training can be quite frustrating on both the human and dog. In a world of growing instant gratification, dog training is still a relatively slow and tedious process. Tasks and concepts that humans perceive to be easily achieved may take more time for the dog to master. By allow yourself to become impatient with your dog, an unwelcome element of unpredictability is introduced which may negatively effect the training process. Developing a patient outlook on the training process will not only help keep not only the dog at ease during the stressful time but you as well.
Inconsistency
Dog training is grounded in repetition. While repetition will likely result in successful training methods, consistency is also necessary. By repeating a training exercise the same way, each time, an element of predictability is being utilized. Predictability is something dogs thrive on. As training progresses, the dog will begin to associate certain result with certain behaviors. These associations are what training is all about.
Being aware of these common mistakes will make training exercises more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog.
