Tips & Tricks Training Guide

Welcome to Good Woofer K9! Congratulations on taking your first step in your dog training journey with us! Please use the following Tips and Tricks Guide to kick off your progress to a better life with your dog!

If you have additional concerns with your dog, feel free to message us or set up a consultation!

Tip 1: Consistency is Key

Ensure your dog understands the expectations and acceptable behaviors. This creates a predictable environment where your dog can thrive and fosters a positive learning atmosphere. Consistency is crucial, so all family members should adhere to the same training guidelines to provide the best possible environment for your dog. Additionally, teach children how to appropriately interact with the dog, highlighting what to do and what to avoid.

Tip 2: Dogs Thrive on Routine

Establish consistent feeding, walking, and training times to provide structure and stability. This helps reduce anxiety and improve behavior. Just like people, dogs benefit greatly from a routine. However, remember to allow for some flexibility to ensure the routine enhances your life rather than restricting it.

Tip 3: Your Energy Makes a Difference

No one likes being yelled at, including your dog. When correcting your dog, use a calm yet assertive tone. Avoid yelling, as it can teach your dog to respond only to raised voices. While dogs can be frustrating at times, maintaining a steady, composed demeanor helps keep your dog in a positive and receptive state of mind. The more balanced your emotions and energy, the better your dog's behavior and well-being will be.

Tip 4: Basic Commands

Teaching basic commands is essential for your dog's development. Dedicating just 5 minutes, 3 times a day, can be sufficient to train commands such as sit, down, kennel, and out. Use treats to guide your dog into the desired positions. If you need to use hand or leash pressure, check out our social media for instructional videos on how to effectively implement these techniques.

Tip 5: Structured Walks

Walks should be structured to promote good behavior. Designate a specific "potty" spot and walk your dog there without allowing sniffing or pulling. Once you reach the spot, use the "break" command to signal that it’s time to potty. After your dog has finished, resume the structured walk as before.

Tip 6: Crate Training

Crate Train Your Dog!

Crate training offers your dog a safe and structured space they can call their own. Use the crate for positive experiences, never as punishment. This approach aids in house training and provides your dog with a secure place to relax and feel comfortable.

Tip 7: Control Resources

Being a leader for your dog is crucial for a harmonious relationship. One effective method is controlling resources, including food, treats, toys, and attention. All food should be provided by you, and your dog should show respect while being fed. Playtime is earned, and toys should only be accessible during these designated times. This approach minimizes the risk of resource guarding or conflicts between housemates. Additionally, attention serves as a reward for your dog, so excessive affection can actually hinder your relationship with them.

Tip 8: Impulse Control

Teach your dog the value of patience by having them wait calmly for essentials like meals, playtime, and crossing thresholds. This cultivates self-control in your dog and strengthens your role as a leader while enhancing your bond with them.

Tip 9: Corrections and Rewards

Finding the right balance between corrections and rewards is crucial in dog training. Just as life isn't always sunshine and rainbows, there are moments when corrections are necessary for your dog's understanding and development. When delivering a correction, use a clear "no" to communicate effectively. This reinforces your dog's comprehension of the command. Conversely, rewards can include playtime, affection, food, treats, or anything else your dog finds enjoyable. Corrections entail anything your dog perceives as undesirable.

Tip 10: Exercise

Both mental and physical exercise are vital for every dog's well-being. Mental exercise encompasses training sessions, eliminating the need to purchase multiple puzzles to stimulate your dog's brain. Training not only provides ample mental stimulation but also offers the opportunity to teach new tricks. Incorporating both types of exercise into your dog's routine effectively prevents boredom and curbs destructive behaviors.