Dog Obedience Training Tips

We adore our dog companions! However, not every moment is joyful when your dog isn't trained to perform certain activities or avoid unwanted behaviour. To teach your dog to be obedient, focus on training that incorporates obedience skills as well as the specific actions you desire from them using positive response training.

How to train your dog using a long leash

There is a range of leashes that help the process of training run smoother. The EzyDog Track N Train long dog leash is a 5 metre dog leash great for recall training, especially when training a puppy.

When your dog is further away, you can train them with this leash to respond to your required commands -‘come,’ ‘leave it,”sit,’ and ‘stay’.’ As you uncoil the leash, give your dog the desired order and begin to back away from them. Keep the distances to a few meters for the first few attempts until they get the hang of it with the reward of a treat. This increases the likelihood that they will listen in unexpected situations. The Track n Train leash works to significantly improve the effectiveness of your training efforts. It achieves this by stopping the dog from engaging in a variety of behaviours (such as ignoring your whistle and instead chasing birds) without your consent.

How to train your dog to walk on a lead without pulling

Wanting your dog to walk and run alongside you? Using the right leash and harness in combination with positive response training is key. The EzyDog Crosscheck Harness, X-Link Harness and UpFront D-Ring attachment means you can connect your leash to the front or side of the harness, providing you with extra control. This extra control is generated by means of causing the dog’s center of gravity to shift, ultimately forcing them to reduce pulling. These two harnesses have multiple attachment points so that you can quickly change between standard walking and training whilst on your walk.

If your dog starts pulling on the leash, simply come to a halt and wait until there is no tension on the lead before resuming your walk. Repeat the procedure if your dog pulls on the lead again. You may also use snacks to entice your dog to return to you. This strategy teaches your dog that pulling on the lead means their stroll will be cut short.

Dog training using a treat pouch

For treat training you may like to use special training treats or even bits of dry food. You’ll be rewarding your dog with a training goodie practically every repeat when you initially start. However, as you continue, you can slowly incorporate real-life prizes, such as praise instead of goodies.

When teaching your dog, food is utilised as a “motivator”. Something that increases the frequency of an action (or inaction) is referred to as a “reinforcer”. Every time you praise your dog for sitting, for example, you’re boosting the probability that they will sit more often. Food is the preferred incentive for the vast majority of dogs.

The EzyDog Snakpak Dog Treat Bag straps around your waist and has a magnetic opening system to provide simple and quick access to treats whilst keep your hands free for training.

Clicker Training

Clicker training is a simple and successful dog training approach that uses positive reinforcement through sound. The click provides an ‘event marker’ connecting positive behaviour with a reward. This clear form of communication, combined with positive reinforcement, is an effective way of getting started with your dog training in a safe manner.

The EzyDog Command Training Clicker fits right onto your finger enabling the trainer to keep their hands free.

Hiring a trainer

You may not have enough knowledge and skill to train your dog, and that’s ok! Whether you want to take part in obedience classes or arrange private sessions, it will be beneficial for your best friend! When picking a dog trainer make sure they are qualified and use humane methods of training. Talk about what issues you are having and learn from the trainer how to continuously use their tips and tricks to correct your dog’s behaviour.

Questions we recommend asking the trainer before hiring them:

• How long have you been dog training?
• What types of qualifications do you have in dog training?
• What is your training method?
• Have you worked with this breed before?
• Have you worked on my particular request/problem before?