Dog training: the basics of obedience and tricks. How to teach a dog basic commands and tricks

Dog training is not only a useful activity, but also an important part of parenting, which helps to establish contact with a pet, improve its behavior and ensure the safety of both the animal and others. Proper training promotes the formation of obedience, develops intelligence and helps the pet to adapt to various situations. In this article, we will talk about basic commands, training methods, and how to teach a dog simple tricks.

1. Why do I need a workout?

Teaching dogs basic commands and tricks has several important goals:
- Safety: An obedient dog that responds well to commands is more protected in various situations, such as outdoors or near roads.
- Bond strengthening: Training helps to strengthen the contact between the owner and the pet, improves mutual understanding and trust.
- Prevention of behavioral problems: Regular exercise prevents the development of undesirable habits such as aggression, fears, or destructive behavior.

2. How to teach a dog basic commands?

Dog training is primarily about patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Basic commands such as "sit", "lie down", "to me" are the basis for the formation of obedience.

2.1. The "Sit" command

This is one of the first commands that a dog should be taught. It is simple for most pets and helps with parenting.

How to teach:
1. Take a treat in your hand and show it to the dog, holding it just above her nose.
2. Lift the treat up, forcing the dog to raise his head and lower his backside until he sits down.
3. As soon as the dog sits down, say the command "Sit" and immediately praise her by giving her a treat.
4. Repeat this several times, gradually increasing the duration of the sitting position before giving the treat.

2.2. The "Lie Down" command

This command teaches the dog to lie still, which is useful in a situation where you want him to calm down and stay in one place.

How to teach:
1. After the dog is sitting, take the treat and lower it to the floor in front of its muzzle.
2. Move the treat towards the ground so that the dog follows it and lies down.
3. As soon as the dog is in the prone position, say the command "Lie down" and immediately give a treat.
4. Repeat the exercise until the dog lies down on command without prompting.

2.3. The "To me" command

The "To me" command helps to keep the dog under control, especially in a situation where it can move away from you.

How to teach:
1. Stand at a small distance from the dog and show him a treat.
2. Say the command "To me" and take a step back so that the dog goes to you.
3. When the dog comes up, praise him and give him a treat.
4. Gradually increase the distance, making training more difficult.

2.4. The command "Fu" or "Not allowed"

This command teaches the dog not to commit unwanted actions such as eating dirt, gnawing furniture, or other dangerous acts.

How to teach:
1. When the dog tries to do something undesirable, say the command "Ew".
2. With a light but confident gesture, take the dog away from what he is trying to take.
3. When she stops, praise her and suggest an alternative action or toy.
4. It is important to avoid punishment, instead focus on positive reinforcement.

3. How to teach a dog tricks?

After the dog has mastered the basic commands, you can move on to learning more complex tricks. They not only entertain, but also give the dog additional mental stress, which helps to maintain activity and stimulate its mental abilities.

3.1. The "Give a Paw" trick

This trick can be taught to dogs as early as the age of 4-6 months, and it will be a great way to show your love and affection.

How to teach:
1. Lift the dog's paw, then show him the treat in his hands.
2. When the dog raises its paw (or at least slightly tears it off), say the command "Give me a paw."
3. Praise the dog and give him a treat.
4. Repeat the exercise until she starts doing it on command.

3.2. The "Somersault" trick

This trick will teach the dog to somersault to the ground.

How to teach:
1. Place the dog on his back or on his side.
2. Attract her attention with a treat and slowly move it from one shoulder to the other, creating a movement that will cause the dog to somersault.
3. As soon as the dog does a somersault, say the command "Somersault" and praise it.
4. Repeat this several times so that the dog learns to do the trick on command.

3.3. The "Standing on your hind legs" trick

This trick develops balance and coordination. It is also a vibrant show for friends and guests.

How to teach:
1. First, teach your dog to raise his front paws while standing on his hind legs.
2. Attract her attention with a treat, then raise the treat higher, forcing the dog to stand on its hind legs.
3. When the dog is standing, say the command "Stand" and reward him.
4. Gradually increase the time the dog stays in this position.

4. Tips for a successful workout

- Use positive reinforcement. Dogs should be praised and encouraged for doing the right thing. Treats, toys, and praise are the best ways to motivate.
- Be consistent. Use the same command for the same action. This helps the pet to remember what they want from him.
- Exercise regularly, but don't overwork your dog. Each lesson should be short but intense (10-15 minutes).
- Take your time. Each dog has its own learning rate. If she doesn't understand the command right away, don't scold her — repeat and be patient.

Dog training is a process that requires patience, time, and the right approach. Basic commands and simple tricks not only entertain the pet, but also help it to be more obedient and confident. The main thing is to establish a trusting and positive relationship with your pet, which will help him become happy, healthy and well—mannered.