Dog training techniques have come a long way over the last 50-plus years. In the early days, physical punishment and what we now consider to be cruel practices were championed. Now, through a better understanding of how dogs think and feel, positive reinforcement and a gentler approach have proven to be most effective.
Reward-based training is an excellent method. Dogs will repeat behaviors that result in a reward. Some dogs master training faster than others. Be patient!
A great way to keep dogs focused during training sessions is by offering Treatibles Hard Chews or Soft Chewables. The Organic Full Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil works with the neurological system to help calm the brain and keep the dog’s focus on the task at hand. By breaking Treatibles into smaller pieces, they also serve as a reward.
We recommend incorporating Treatibles by:
- Providing a full dose (either a chew, chewable, or even drops of Treatibles oil) a half hour before a walk to help deter reactive behavior
- Offering a piece of a chew or chewable every time your dog obeys a command during training (sit, stay, etc.)
- At the beginning and/or end of each training session, so that there is a positive association with learning
Keep in mind that dogs prefer being pet over being praised, so incorporate lots of petting when they do a good job.
Yelling is a practice that can do more harm than good. Speaking loudly and using an angry tone causes fear and can make a dog skittish. Russell Hartstein, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) in Los Angeles and Miami, emphasizes that the pitch of your voice is more important than what you are actually saying. It is one of the reasons why dogs respond positively to high-pitched pet-baby talk.
For more tips on successful training we recommend this article by Zak George, author of Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love.
To find a positive reinforcement dog trainer near you, visit Positively.
There are many training philosophies out there. Regardless of which method you choose, adding Treatibles can assist the learning process and make training sessions run more smoothly.
