Training your dog can be a headache. But you can't really blame them since there is an obvious language barrier between you and your pup. However, that doesn't mean it's impossible to train your dog. You just need to entice them to do the command you're asking. And the best way to do so is with a rewards system.
Use a Reward You Know Your Dog Can't Resist
So what's the best rewards system you can use? Well, first, you must choose a reward that your dog can't resist. This will, of course, depend on the dog. After all, not all dogs like the same thing. So, you have to be observant and find out which particular treat your dog especially likes.
For example, perhaps your dog just loves chew bones. So, you can use a chew bone as a reward when your dog does something that he's been taught. You can show them the chew bone as you deliver the command so that they will be motivated to complete the action.
And you don't have to stick to just one reward. If your dog likes a bunch of different treats, you can mix it up and offer those as rewards as well. Just make sure you don't include something they don't like.
Use the Reward Immediately
Now that you have a couple of rewards that work for you and your dog, the next thing to do is to use them immediately after the desired behavior. This will help your dog connect the action with the reward. For example, if you want your dog to look at you and then you immediately give him the chew bone, he will know that looking at you is the behavior that will be rewarded.
Use Your Hands
The next step is to add a hand gesture. This way, your dog will be able to observe that there is a connection between the hand gesture and the reward. In other words, the hand gesture will be a cue for the desired behavior.
Once your dog starts to perform the behavior and you immediately apply the hand gesture, he will soon learn that the hand gesture means that he deserves a reward. So, any time his behavior is appropriate, you can use this hand gesture, and he will always know that a reward will follow.
Be Consistent
One of the most important things in training your dog is to be consistent. If you're not consistent in your actions, then there won't be a connection between the rewards and the behavior. This will make it difficult for your dog to understand what's expected of him. So, stay consistent in your commands and hand gestures, and your dog will be a well-trained dog in no time!
Final Thoughts
Dog training is a lot of hard work. It can be difficult to get your dog to do what you want. But with the right rewards system, you can get your dog to do what you want. So, if you're having trouble training your dog, then this is the right time to use a rewards system.
Get delicious treats to reward your dog, from Wags to Wiskers. We are a pet store in Ann Arbor with a focus on natural, holistic pet foods, primarily for but not limited to dogs and cats. We offer wet, dry, and raw food for all breeds and ages, and our number one priority is the health of your pet. Contact us today to place an order!