Training is an essential part of the transition process when you bring your new pooch home. It is important for laying down some ground rules, and ensuring that you and your new best friend build a bond that is built to last.
Bringing a rescue dog home can be challenging, and you should be fully prepared from the very first day. In this post, we take a look at how you can make this process easier by training and how to train your new best friend to the best of your ability.
Take Him for Professional Training
There is a good chance that your adopted dog is not trained at all. And while it is possible to train him yourself, enrolling for obedience classes or basic training is recommended. Here you will also get the opportunity to learn how to train him well.
Get Some Treats
Most training techniques are built on positive reinforcement and what better incentive than treats? Make sure you have some treats ready when you start training or when you take your doggo to train or obedience classes.
Teach Basic Commands
You want your best friend to respond to commands like ‘stay’ or ‘sit’. Be sure to cover these from the beginning to ensure your rescue dog will listen to you. Other important basic commands to practice include ‘come’ or ‘leave it’.
Practice Makes Perfect
It is important that you practice commands that you’ve taught your doggo whenever you have the time. Reward him with a treat when he’s achieved what you’ve been practicing. Don’t get disheartened and just continue practicing while rewarding good behavior.
Patience is Important
As we’ve mentioned, it is important to keep at it and not get disheartened. Both you and your new pup will be learning new things during the transition process and it is important to be patient with yourself, but also with him. Keep in mind that this is a new experience for him too!
Get into a Routine
Nothing builds a solid training foundation than a good routine. Make sure you have a routine in place that your new dog gets accustomed to. Things like meal times, walkies, play time and training should take place roughly at the same time on a set schedule.
Positive Reinforcement is Important
While there are many training techniques out there, the one that is favored by the majority of animal handlers and behaviorists is positive reinforcement. Rewarding your doggo with a treat for good behavior is part of this.
Another way is to praise him when he’s done something right with a good old fashioned ‘good boy!’.
Remember, the transition period can be difficult for both you and your rescue dog. It will require a lot of patience and effort, but the rewards and friendship are sure worth it. Keep at it, and soon you and your new bestie will be enjoying every outing and activity together.
From Visually.
