A lot of information is available today on the attributes your dog must
possess to be a good hunting companion. Traits like a good nose, strong prey
drive, and good temperament, to name a few. However, not as much attention is
given to the attributes a good trainer/handler must have to successfully get
the job done.
You must become the “pack leader”. Dogs are direct descendants of
wolves, which are pack animals. There is a pack leader known as the alpha. Most
times a male but sometimes a female. You must become that “alpha” or “pack
leader”. You do so through use of obedience commands.
This month we are going to review those key attributes, which you
must possess to become “pack leader” and successfully train your dog. So, let
us get started:
I recommend the following verbal basic obedience training commands:
WHOA (SIT for retrievers & flushers), NO, HERE, HEEL, KENNEL, DOWN. You may
substitute LEAVE IT for NO. Please note most of the commands use only one word.
This makes it less confusing for the dog. Dogs understand through your voice
inflection. Use a happy tone when praising your dog and an abrupt sharp tone
when expressing your displeasure.
CONSISTENT
The same word must be given to the dog consistently for a specific
command. Example: HERE or COME to get the dog to come to you. This is known as
recall. Either word is fine. Just be consistent. Remember, everyone in
your family must use the same word for the desired command function. Doing
otherwise will confuse your dog.
INSISTENT
You must insist that your dog performs the command once you have given
it. This may involve having to “hands on” guide the dog step-by-step through
the command. Example: Having the dog come to you by pulling it straight to you
on a check cord or lead. If you do not insist the dog obey the command, you
will lose your role as “pack leader”.
PERSISTENT
Don’t give up when the dog seems to not understand or refuses to obey
your command. No doubt, you will become somewhat frustrated when this occurs.
Go back to a command your dog understands and performs well. Praise the dog
even to the point of overdoing it. Put the dog up for the day as tomorrow is
another day. Persistent and consistent repetition will get the job done.
PATIENCE
Getting angry at your dog will only cause him/her to become
apprehensive and confused. Some dogs, just as humans, learn faster than others.
They, as humans, may learn some functions quicker than others. Thus, remain
patient in your training sessions. Again, if a particular session is not going
well, go back to a command he/she performs well. Give much praise and put the
dog up for the day. NOTE: We do not send our children off to kindergarten in
the morning and expect them back in the afternoon with a college degree!
If you keep these attributes in mind during training sessions, you will
be on your way to becoming a successful trainer and handler of your dog.
See you again next month,
C J ,
Shawnee and Duchess