7 Habits of Effective Dog Trainers

1. Consistency: Decide what habits you'd like your dog to have and commit to them all of the time.
2. Timing: Dogs best associate their actions with your reaction when feedback is given immediately.
3. Reward Desired Behaviours: Verbal praise is essential. Combine it with another motivator of your choice and be generous.
4. Correct Undesired Behaviour: Use the appropriate level of correction for the dogs level of understanding. Combine corrections with a clear, upbeat request for an alternate behaviour.
5. Manage the Situation: Know your dogs' limits and set up his environment so that he may succeed within it.
6. Baby Steps: Take small steps when training new behaviours. Increase confidence and ability by building on successes.
7. Communicate: Make your expectations and requests clear. Training means giving guidance as well as feedback.

Provided by Maria Gogol of Sundog Training (403) 560-9459.

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