Dogs are social animals, but in order to be a good addition to the pack (their human family and their puppy friends) dogs need to learn how to socialize and behave. You can teach your dog good behavior with home training or starting an obedience class. No matter what you choose, if you stay consistent and patient, you’ll have a happy, calm and healthy dog. Here are all the benefits you can expect and how to get them.
You’ll bond with your dog
One of the first and biggest benefits of working with your dog is bonding. When you put in the time and effort every day, you’ll strengthen your bond and get more satisfaction from dog ownership. Your pup will also appreciate the time and start seeing you as the pack leader that’s thoughtful and confident. No matter which technique you use (positive reinforcement or alpha dog method), your dog will create a stronger and lasting bond with your through training.
You’ll manage your pet much more easily
With basic and advanced commands your dog will learn with home training and obedience classes, you’ll have much better control over your pet. This means that your pup will become a true part of the family instead of misbehaving and having to be left at home during family outings or shut in a puppy cage when you have guests. Simple commands like Heel, Off and Stay are all thought at obedience schools and can provide your pet with knowledge on how to behave in public, how to greet people and how to stay calm.
Your dog will be much safer
A dog that’s well-trained is a dog that’s safe, not just for you, your family and friends, but for itself. Trained dogs have a lower risk of getting hit by a car, attacked by another dog or being given for adoption. So, if you want to make your life more secure, but also provide your dog with the same security, make sure to try some solid training. Most basic commands like Sit, Stay, Come and Don’t Touch can be taught at home with only a few tools and some patience. For instance, you can grab a practical ET-300 educating collar that produces sounds, vibrations and light zaps to quickly and gently correct bad behavior. If you combine this product with a bunch of treats to reward good behavior, your dog will realize very quickly what you want it to do. This method works especially well with distracted and very energetic pups and can truly save lives!
You’ll get a happy and social dog
Teaching your pet how to interact with other dogs is one of the best gifts you can give it. Learning “the dog language” is very important for socializing and getting along with other dogs. Your most likely encounter dogs at walks, parks, vet’s office and kennels or puppy hotels. If your dog doesn’t have any other animal family or friends from who to learn behavior, you’ll have to teach them how to act at obedience classes. These will ensure your dog has a healthy and safe interaction with other animals.
It’s a great activity for you and your dog
Obedience classes will get you out of the house, give you some physical exercise and allow you to meet like-minded people. These classes often result in friendships and a way to connect to people and other pets. Plus, it will be a great activity that will keep both of your off the couch which is great for various health reasons.
It’s just fun and educational
There’s one thing that’s for sure: obedience classes and home training are simply fun! Both you and your dog will love everything about it. Some obedience schools even have dog training history seminars, social BBQs and competitions that can be fun. Also, no matter if you’re a new pet owner or someone who spent their whole life with dogs, there are always new things to learn, new techniques to use and new gadgets and toys to try out.
Training with your dog is a great idea, no matter if you have a new puppy or a senior dog. Try some basic home training, join an obedience school or combine these two and you’ll greatly improve your life, your pet’s life and your collective happiness, health and safety. Give it a shot and you’ll definitely not regret all the time and effort you put in!