Dog training is the only way to ensure you pet is well-behaved. There are many basic methods of training a dog, but perhaps the gentlest and most successful is positive reinforcement. Here are some tips for using this method of training to help you dog become well-mannered, even in the most trying situations.

Positive reinforcement is based on eliminating problem behaviors and encouraging the behaviors that you want to see using rewards. Most professions in dog training recommend using a special snack food to train your dog. Choose a food that you know really tempts your dog, but that he doesn’t get on a regular basis, such as hot dogs. Only give the food to your pet when he is performing the behavior that you want to see.

For example, if you are teaching your dog to sit, you should reinforce sitting behavior by giving him a treat each time he follows your Sit! command. Most dogs are eager to please their owners, and will be more than happy to accommodate your wishes if they are able to understand what you want. This method of dog training shows the dog which behaviors are appropriate, so that they understand what you expect from them.

If your dog is misbehaving, you don’t want to give him any incentives to continue the behavior. Instead of looking at him and speaking to him, simply ignore the behavior or give him the command to stop. It does take most dogs a little time to follow their dog training commands successfully, so be consistent if you want to see results quickly. Most dog training manuals will advise you to only give rewards when the pet is engaging in a behavior that you desire.

For example, if you are teaching your dog to sit, you will want to immediately give him a treat while repeating the sit command each time he engages in the behavior. You will need to begin phasing out the food rewards after your dog has successfully learned the command and consistently follows it for a short time. phasing out treats and replacing them with affectionate hugs and patting will ensure he follows your command even when the treat isn’t present.