Dog Training The Gentle Way – The Sit Command

Dog Training using positive reinforcement techniques is the gentle and humane way to teach your dog the rules. You will be fostering a loving relationship with your dog instead of intimidating and scaring your dog into submission. In this article you will learn the basic steps to teach your puppy or adult dog to sit.

1. Put a leash on your dog so they cannot wonder off while you are working with them.

2. Put some treats in a closed fist so they can smell them but not see them. If your dog sees the treat each time he will learn to only obey when you have food in your hands.

3. With your finger draw an invisible line from the dog's nose between the eyes to the top of the head as you say sit. The head will move back to follow your hand and therefore push the bottom down to the ground.

4. As soon as the dog's bottom touches the ground, say "Good Sit" and give them a treat and praise them excitedly.

Below are some Dog Training Tips for successfully training your dog to sit.

1. Keep your bait hand low. While moving your hand over the dogs head, make sure that your hand is not too high or the dog will jump to reach the treats. Your hand should only be a couple of inches over the dogs head.

2. Do not force the dog. Resist the urge to push the dog's bottom down if they are having a hard time learning how to sit. Just be patient and keep trying to slowly draw a line over their head with the treat and they will learn.

3. The dog will need to be weaned off the treats. During the first week use the treats heavily. During the second week start mixing the treats up giving every other time or every third time while continually using praise and excitement. After about 3 weeks treats will no longer be needed and you will be the only reward your dog will need.

4. Even after you wean off the treats, continue to use the sit hand signal as well as your voice. The benefit of using hand signals and voice commands simultaneously is so when you are in a situation where you cannot use your voice to give your dog some direction, such as talking on the phone, you can give your dog a quiet hand signal without disrupting your phone call.

5. Label your commands. When giving your dog a training command, label the action, not the dog. When your dog sits, tell them good sit, not good dog. Your dog will learn the command faster because they hear the command word again and they are praised for the specific command.

6. Keep training sessions short. If you are training a puppy, keep your training sessions under 10 minutes. It is best to have several short training sessions per day so that your dog will not get distracted.

7. Be consistent. Everyone in the family should be involved with training your dog. Children as well as adults should learn the commands so the dog sees ALL humans as dominate and therefore listens and obeys everyone equally.

About The Author
Jennifer Ivey is a positive reinforcement http://dogtrainingbehavior.blogspot.com who writes articles on many dog related topics. Read more of Jennifer's articles at http://www.bestdogarticles.com.

Dog obedience training

Which dog owner won't feel proud of his disciplined dog? Reversely, who won't feel ashamed of an unruly dog? It is very important for your dog to be absolutely obedient to commands of his owner. You can't expect your dog to be obedient by birth or nature. You have to take pains to make him understand obey your commands.

Obedience training to your dog can be imparted in many ways - two of the more popular methods are typically carrot and stick methods. First method heavily depends on the stick or punishment approach. Second method deals with the reward system for the dog.

Leash and collar method of dog obedience training has survived for a long time now. It is primitive but still mostly followed. The premises of this training method are based here - leash will be the mode of communication with the dog. Dog must understand the commands, and if not obeyed to, leash should be put to action. Using leash alone is not sufficient - dog must be made aware of the good and bad behavior. Once tracked on the path to bad behavior, dog can be punished with the leash.

Reward system doesn't believe in punishing the dog. It follows psychological approach to deal with dog training. Dog is made to know the good parts of behavior and rewarded for the same. His ugly behavior is neglected in the form of psychological treatment. The trainer or owner walks away from the dog immediately after the show of bad behavior. Dog is an intelligent animal to understand the difference between the bad and good behavior.

Whatever technique is used for dog obedience training, it is important to know that the training must be consistent. Dogs get easily confused due to double standards employed. If you expect your dog never to jump on the bed, never let or invite him on the bed. Ensure that your dog never reaches the bed.

Obedience training starts on the fundamental issues like sitting, standing, walking, listening to your commands & following those, sitting in the car, etc.

The dog owner can easily impart obedience training. You may find alternates to this by getting your dog enrolled with some obedience classes or dog instructor. Evaluate all the training techniques, methods, equipment, infrastructure, experience, etc before taking the final decision on outside help. Remember, the most ideal way will be yourself to be the instructor. Your dog will love it.

About The Author
Ted Belfour is the founder of http://www.house-training-puppy.info and http://www.training-a-puppy.info websites providing information on dog training.
tedbelfour@yahoo.ca

How to Find a Certified Dog Trainer

Are you in the market for a dog trainer? Do you want your dog to learn from a top notch certified dog trainer? You may have dreams of seeing your dog in professional dog competitions and shows. Therefore, you need to have your dog trained by a certified dog trainer to ensure the best results.

Why should you hire a certified dog trainer instead of a basic dog trainer? A certified dog trainer is one that takes their dog training career seriously enough to become certified. You can feel comfortable in the fact that they have met high dog training standards and passed certification exams and tests. You don't want a fly-by-night dog trainer, but a certified dog trainer that is in it for the long haul.

How do you find a certified dog trainer? There are numerous dog trainers available in the market place today. Dog trainers range in age, skill level, and experience. Your neighbor might tell you that they are a dog trainer because they have read a few books on the subject and taught their dog to fetch the newspaper. This is not sufficient dog training experience.

You should consult a variety of resources. Try asking your dog breeder, groomer, and veterinarian. They can direct you to local dog training schools that have certified dog trainers on their faculty. Various pet supply stores have dog training programs that train and certify their dog trainers. Example pet supply stores include PETCO.

However, research what they mean by "certification". Is the certification by PETCO standards only or by a universal certification? Find out what the requirements are for their certified dog trainers. Only then can you determine if their dog trainers will supply the skill level and experience you desire.

You need to find a dog trainer that has had comprehensive training and can proudly demonstrate that they are a certified dog trainer. Be aware, though, that there are many "certified dog training" schools and home correspondence courses available. Not all of these schools are credible nor do they provide proper instruction. You need to find a dog trainer that has certification as described by the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers.

The Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers is a well respected organization that provides testing and certification services for dog trainers. They administer specific dog training tests in various states around the country approximately twice per year. These intensive tests root out the professional dog trainer from the average dog trainer. Check out their website at: http://www.ccpdt.org/.

The Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers also provides a listing of certified dog trainers. You can search through this listing to find a certified dog trainer in your area. This roster of certified dog trainers comprises certified dog trainers all over the world. The certified dog trainer list will give you their contact information including name, city, phone number, and e-mail address. Another great feature is that they list the date the dog trainer became certified. This will let you know how many years they have been in the dog training business. Peruse the list at: http://ccpdt.org/rstr/index.html.

Certified pet trainers do not only need to pass a certification exam and testing, they must also continue their education through workshops, conferences, and other means. When selecting a certified dog trainer ask them about the extent of their continuing education. You want a certified dog trainer that continues to hone their craft. They should actively learning about various dog training methods. This demonstrates that they are committed to providing the best dog training.

A certified dog trainer should have at least three to five years of dog training experience. This is especially true if they charge higher fees. You can take the plunge with a newly certified dog trainer if cost is an issue. Newly certified dog trainers may charge lower rates in order to establish a list of clients and garner experience. "Master" certified dog trainers are those that have twenty to thirty years of experience. They may have great skill and in depth background experience, but may come at a higher price.

You have the beginning knowledge regarding finding a certified dog trainer. Spend time searching resources available through your dog breeder, veterinarian, and pet supply store. Scour the book store, library, and Internet for detailed information. You can find a certified dog trainer in your area as well.

You wouldn't go to an unlicensed doctor would you? So why would go to a trainer that is not certified? Certified dog trainers are out there and ready to help you and your pooch learn valuable skills. They are committed to your dog, their career, and learning everything they can about becoming a top notch dog trainer. Who knows, your certified dog trainer may help your dog win the Westminster dog show. Not only would your dog be trained well and achieve glory, but the expense would be well worth it.

About The Author
Katie Brandt, a lifelong dog lover, owns http://www.dog-breeds-infosite.com which is the ultimate dog lover's resource. Research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog supplies, dog health, dog school, dog grooming, dog books, and dog care.

Clicks Instead Of 'Good Boy' For Dog Training

The first major improvement in dog training since choke chains and spiked collars, click and treat has quickly establishing itself in becoming a big hit in the world of dog training. Currently, there are over 10,000 trainers who are using this training method everyday.

One advantage to using this form of training at home is it's easy to learn for both the dog and his trainer!

Originally used to train marine mammals, click and treat breaks down the process into two separate steps, information and motivation. The click is the information, the treat is the motivation. While other trainers still work on these two steps, they try to teach them all at once, which can confuse the animal and slow down results.

Most trainers will verbally praise a dog for good behavior, while at the same time motivating the dog to repeat his actions. This can be a good method, however it takes longer for the dog to understand which behaviors and actions caused the praise from the trainer.

With the click and treat method, the processes are easily taught. In normal training, a person would say "good boy" when a welcomed action occurs and proceed with giving a treat. The clicker becomes a substitute for verbal praise and can actually catch the "good boy" behavior quicker than saying it, letting the dog know exactly which behavior he is being rewarded for.

Another way to look at click and treat training is viewing it as a secondary reinforcement, while food, water, physical affection and play (things the dog wants) become primary reinforcement. When you take a dog for a walk, the leash works as a secondary reinforcement. It is obvious to the dog that the leash is not taking him for a walk; the owner is, however, it triggers a reaction in the dog, telling him that the leash will let him know where he will go and where he will not. And if he reacts to the leash with good behavior, his reward will be a nice leisurely walk.

Click and treat works the same way. When a dog hears the clicker, he will know that he performed a good behavior and as long as he keeps hearing a click, there is a treat coming his way. So, the clicker works as a secondary reinforcement, teaching him boundaries and appropriate behavior.

A couple advantages of the click and treat method include;

1) Faster response than verbal praise. The clicker can identify the exact behavior at the time it happens.

2) It takes the place of treats. While motivating the dog to hear clicks, it will also teach him to work without the expectations of having treats given to him each time he does something good.

3) If the trainer is working at a distance from the dog, the clicker will still work, without having to be right next him.

Are you ready to try clicker training?

The first thing you'll need to do is go to your favorite pet supply store and invest in a clicker. The clicker is nothing fancy and should just cost you under five dollars. While you're there grab some pocket treats, little bits of dried liver work well.

A good method to use when getting started with click and treat is to stand in front of the animal. Click the clicker and give a treat. Continue doing this for 20-30 minutes, or until the dog becomes startled by the sound of the click. This will familiarize him to the clicking sound, while teaching him that every time he hears it, he has done something good. After he gets the hang of it, begin by adding commands, such as "sit" and "stay."

Click and treat has proven to be a simple, yet consistent training method with quick results. So for the trainers out there who are looking for a new and innovative way to motivate and praise their animals, get out there, buy a clicker and... click!

About The Author
Ann Doyle is an avid dog lover, and has been for years. Visit her blog at http://www.abetterdog.com.

Dog Behavior Training - Dog Aggression Toward Its Owners

A dog that growls at and/or bites its owner does so for some reason, even if the behavior appears to be "unreasonable" to the owner. If your dog displays aggressive behavior towards you, for the safety and welfare of you, your family and your dog, it's important to find out why as quickly as possible.

Call your vet right away and schedule an appointment for a complete medical examination. Talk with your vet about testing your dogs hormonal balance, neurophysiologic functions and allergies. The test results may reveal the underlying cause. This has been especially helpful in dogs that have mood swings.

When growling or biting has erupted as a consequence of scolding or punishment for behavior such as chewing, jumping, general unruliness, or overprotection of food, these problems must be dealt with swiftly and firmly to correct the aggression it is initiating.

As the dogs owner, you must understand that your dog growls or bites at you as a result of defensive feelings. Even the dog that growls when ordered off the couch is reacting defensively, as it feels its dominance status has been threatened.

If scolding and punishment provoke aggression, your dog is reacting to a perceived threat to its physical safety. In either of these situations, your own threatening behavior may be producing negative results.

If the results of a medical examination show no signs of a medical condition that would be causing this behavior, you will have to examine your own behavior closely to determine what you are doing to make your dog feel threatened.

If you can't hire the services of a professional, I highly recommend you pick up a copy of Secrets Of A Professional Dog Trainer by Adam Katz for indepth instructions on dog behavior training. This ebook is available on my blog. http://dog-behavior-training.blogspot.com/

About The Author
Heather Colman loves to spend quality time with her dog Gibson. She has worked closely with various professional dog trainers in the past 2 years to work through many of the behavior problems generated by Gibson's previous owner. Visit Heather's blog for more tips on dog behavior training. http://dog-behavior-training.blogspot.com/
This article is Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, all links stay live and this entire resource box is included.

Have An Easier Time Training Your Dog

Raising up is a dog is a hard task. The only consolation that you'll have when raising up a dog is that it's not as hard when you raised or will raise up kids.

Dogs may be a little rough around the edges when you start training them. But when they get trained, a small amount of dog burdens will be lifted away from your shoulders. Imagine that you will no longer have to step on dog poop all of a sudden or have your dog occupy your couch.

However to get your dog trained well it will need a little effort from you as well. As the saying goes, "It takes two to tango." The better you are at training your dog, the better attitude your dog will have. Here are some tips that you can do to make the training effective.

If you live with a family or lots of other people, chances are there will be one person with most of the burden of training the dog. This person might be the one who bought the dog or the person who got forced to train the dog. It is suggestible though to make kids train the dog. This is because kids have a higher pitched voice and are more animated making dogs react more. A child training the dog will also make the dog feel less abused or imposed because of their size.

Having the right attitude when you are training your dog will also be helpful. Don't think of training the dog as a chore, because if you do you will feel bored. Naturally when you feel bored, you and your dog will not enjoy. Prevent it from happening, because when it does happen you will be spending less time training. Try to enjoy and have fun, that's what your relationship with the dog should be anyway.

If you are tired or cranky, train at a later time. Relax first, if you train the dog when you are tired, you will only become more irritated when things don't go right. When the dog is having trouble with something new; try to go back to something the dog has already mastered. This will make the dog feel not so bad.

Don't give up immediately when things are not going your way. Just think about the dog learning something from a different language. If you are learning how to read a book in Chinese, you'll also have a hard time right?

If you're at the point of giving up, just think about the benefits of all things once the dog has been properly trained.

About The Author
Michael Colucci is a technical writer for http://www.free-dog-training.org and http://www.edogstoday.com.

House Training Dogs Successfully

You could House train your dog easily if you had the time to watch your puppy 24 hours a day. But as you can't watch them around the clock, don't expect to train them all at once. Training can take up to about 6 months. Puppies are growing and developing quickly at this stage. They eat more food and burn up lots of energy and consequently need to ‘go' more often.

The most important issue in house training dogs should be teaching him to control his bowel. When he is still a puppy, he has not yet developed bladder control.

House training dogs is hard when you are not home. Your puppy needs a lot of attention. You should first confine your puppy in a puppy-proof room with paper spread all over the floor. Put his water bowls and food right next to it. The papers you have set on the floor may be dragged and chewed around his little den, but its important and helpful in teaching your puppy where to eliminate his waste properly. There will be no reason for him to defecate elsewhere. Your puppy will ‘go' on the paper, and you need to clean it up when you arrive home. This may be an additional job for you, but patience is all it takes. Don't worry because later on, he will move past this stage.

Paper training is very useful and a proven technique in training dogs. In this way, no matter where the dog relieves himself, he will still eliminate on the paper because he has no choice. Little by little, you will see some changes. Gradually reduce the amount paper you have set on the ground. Start to move the paper outside the house. Of course, as your puppy has become used to using the paper he will look for it. Once the paper has been moved to outside the house, your training is near its end. Move the paper about an inch per day.

Occasionally, you may discover that he has had ‘accidents' inside the house again. Don't be discouraged. This happens. What you need to do is repeat the training. But understand that it will not be as hard as the first time. House training your dog is key for both your dog and your sanity and sanitation.

About The Author
Simon Oliver has an interest in Recreational Activities & Hobbies. To find out how you can get more information on successfully training your dog please visit this http://www.boxer-dog-guide.com site.

Free Dog Training Tips: Easy Steps to Leading the Pack

Be a leader, a dog will follow.

Hum, what does that mean?! Simply put, if you lead the pack, your dog will follow you to the ends of the earth. Some basic and easy adjustments in your dog training routine can result in huge changes in dog behavior. The simple truth is...dog behavior is a result of human behavior. That is, your dog reacts to you. If you take the time to teach your dog appropriate behavior, and you are consistent in reinforcing it, your dog will work so hard to please you. One key to changing and reinforcing new dog behavior is using positive dog training methods. This article introduces some basics in beginning to get some respect from your dog.

Dogs are pack animals, and they want a leader to tell them what to do and what dog behavior is appropriate. If you don't step up as leader, your dog, no matter how big or small or cute and fluffy, will take over as leader (not just of other dogs, but of you, your spouse, your kids, the cats, and anything else that moves and breathes). This is not the ideal situation, as you can see from the following example.

The Franks are a real family where the dog runs the house. King didn't want the role of leader, but no human stepped up as leader so he felt he had to. His "pack" consisted of dad, mom, and two kids. Being leader was a big job--keeping track of the pack, teaching them the rules (which King made up), and enforcing the rules was a 24-hour job. He successfully taught the family to stay away from his food and toys (growling and snapping when they got too close), not to disturb him if he was napping in main traffic areas like the middle of the kitchen floor, that certain pieces of furniture were his and his alone, and that he decided who got to come into the house. The young boy became a playmate whom he could nip and jump on; the older child and the parents were there to care for him. Any infractions of these "rules" were quickly and severely disciplined by King with growling, biting, snapping, baring teeth.

If King's household is like what you experience in your family, we've got some gentle and positive dog training tips to help you take back your leadership role.

Put these simple steps into your dog's daily life and watch the dog behavior changes. Each of these steps shows your dog that YOU are the leader. Let's start simple, with 3 very basic and easy (for you) new dog training ideas. Once you've mastered these, in the next article, I'll introduce several more.

1. Show me your tummy!

Make it a positive experience for your dog to roll over for that yummy tummy rub. This submissive posture indicates a deferment to your leadership.

2. Praise, praise praise!

Praise for being a good dog. Any dog behavior you like and want to keep, praise it and give a small treat occasionally. This focus on what you want is much more successful than a focus on what you don't want. No free treats or praise for the dominant dog. If your dog wants to be petted, have him sit first! Everyone wins and the dog is learning manners at the same time.

3. Get out of the way!

A leader gets respect. For Scout, that means no lying in high traffic areas (hallways, middle of living room or kitchen), no sitting on your feet, and no refusing to move out of the way. Gently scoot your feet in the direction you want to go while using excited tones and waving your hands to get him up and moving.

For a dog, trying to live with everyone "just getting along" does not work. Dogs live in packs with hierarchies, not democracies. Remember, no human leadership means Fifi will take over and set the rules. It's time for you to step into the leader position. If you do, you will notice positive changes in your dog's behavior right away. You and your dog will begin working as a team.

Be the leader--your dog will love you for it and you'll be surprised how hard he'll work to please you.

Get started using these 3 tips and check back in a few weeks for the next set of easy dog training steps for outstanding dog behavior!

About The Author
O'Neal Hendrix is a premier professional dog trainer in Atlanta, GA. For many years, she has "worked miracles" with dogs and their owners. Check out her dog blog (http://www.dog-supplies-dog-accessories.com) for her advice on everything dog!

Frequently Asked Dog Training Questions:

1. Why do dogs eat their poop?

One reason dogs eat their poop is because it just plain taste good. Another reason is it could be a vitamin deficiency. One other reason for the poop eating is that it is an instinctual behavior in the wild to eat the poop to keep other predators from tracking their movements. Some solutions for stopping poop eating are: You can put meat tenderizer on their food and it is supposed to make the poop taste bad once it goes through the body. Check to make sure your dog food is nutritous enough and they are getting everything they need in their diet. The best and most effective way is to clean up after your dog immediately.

2. How do I get my dogs to stop barking?

Dogs bark as a form of communication. Dogs will also bark out of boredom. Dogs that are not with their pack [you are their pack] will bark to get the packs attention to let them know they are lonely. Dogs will bark to alert that there is a person walking by or another dog in their territory it is a natural form of communication. If you remove the stimulant then there is no need to bark at it. The best way to stop nuisance barking is to exercise/socialize your dog. If the dog is with their pack then they is no need to get the packs attention. Dogs also bark when they are excited it is their natural way of communication.

3. How do I get my dog to stop chewing up the furniture?

If you have a puppy it is probably teething and in some pain. The chewing is satiating to them and can possibly be soothing their gums. You can give them a cold carrot to chew on, make sure you give it to them outside it can get quite messy. You can also freeze chicken broth in ice cube trays for them to have to help relieve some of the discomfort. You can also use Bitter Apple spray to detour them from chewing. Mature dogs usually chew out of boredom and stress. Exercise is the best way to release the stress. You can turn there attention on to something else that is more exciting then your dinning room table leg.

4. How do I get my dog to stop nipping and play-biting?

One way is to yelp very loud and startle the puppy. If the puppy was playing with another puppy and it bite to hard then the puppy would yelp to let them know it hurt. If the play stops as a result of biting too hard then the puppy will learn from being shunned away that biting stops the play time. Another solution for play biting is to have a toy and redirect the attention on to something else. You can also change the dogs environment take them outside for a walk is very helpful.

5. How do I stop my dog from potting in the house?

Once a dog start using the bathroom in the house the only method that works is PREVENTION. Every time your dog uses the bathroom in the house it takes 10 consecutively times using the bathroom outside that teaches it outside is where to go potty. So if you get to 9 times outside and then they have a mistake inside you have to start all over again. You must look at your dog/puppy as a 9 month old crawling baby with out a diaper on. Surely you would not let a 9 month old baby loose in your house with out a diaper on.

About The Author
Susie Aga
Atlanta Dog Trainer
www.atlantadogtrainer.com
770-754-9178

Susie Aga is a Certified Canine Behavior & Training Specialist who received her certification from Triple Crown Academy, a world leader in pet education. She has 20 years experience and is recommended by over 35 Veterinarians in the Metro Atlanta Area. Susie was chosen by Turner Broadcasting to be their featured Pet Expert.

You can find her on their web site: www.tbs.tv/stories/story/0,,34516

Dog Whispering: Origins Of A Phrase And A Philosophy

What Is Dog Whispering?

Dog whispering is more than a matter of talking nicely to your dog.

It's about understanding your dog by reading and interpreting its body language. In turn, you communicate your response to your dog through your body language and actions. From an outside perspective, the calm yet firm way of the whisperer gives the impression that he or she has a bond with the animal that is more natural, or even mystical.

That Movie

The phrase itself is a borrowing from "horse whisperer," which became popular after Nicholas Evans' 1995 novel of the same name was made into a Hollywood movie starring Robert Redford in 1998. The story centers on a real life horse trainer, Irishman Daniel Sullivan. In the early 1800s, Sullivan gained notoriety all over England with his uncanny ability to train and rehabilitate problem horses. He kept his techniques mostly secret and passed them down to his prodigy Willis J. Powell, who took the knowledge overseas to the Americas. There it was passed down again and again in the same way until this secretive method was ultimately revealed more openly.

The idea of "whispering" as a form of training and especially rehabilitating problem horses began to be applied in a wider sense, not only to cattle and livestock, but also to domesticated pets, especially dogs. Dog whispering, like horse whispering, places a heavy investment in understanding the dog by studying their behavior, and responding to them with calm and firm guidance in turn.

That Guy

The best known dog whisperer today is Cesar Millan, who gained fame with his television series, The Dog Whisperer, on the National Geographic Channel. Originally from Mexico, Millan came to the United States in the 1990s. Knowing he had a proven ability to communicate with dogs in a healthy, productive, and humane way, he set out to help dog owners do the same.

Millan's techniques emphasize the importance of establishing yourself as a confident and dependable leader, and his philosophy revolves around the principles of "exercise, discipline and affection."

Nothing Too New

Even though Millan popularized the "Dog Whisperer" tag, and "dog whispering" has become a very hot topic in dog obedience training, the method and techniques it refers to are not necessarily new, nor are they unique to Cesar Millan. Though it should be said that Millan is a genuinely intuitive and caring dog trainer (or "rehabilitator," as he calls himself), and he offers a great deal to troubled dogs – and troubled trainers.

Dog whispering as a dog training philosophy has been around for as long as there have been owners and trainers who deeply understand and respect these animals on their terms and "in their language." It simply occurred under different names.

Either way, those who embrace this philosophy all have one thing in common: they treat dogs neither as humans on four legs or as personal servants at our command, but as dogs.

About The Author
Martin Olliver has over 12 years experience in dog training and is a proud member of the Kingdom of Pets team (http://www.kingdomofpets.com). For more great articles on dog training, including "Dog Whispering: 2 Common Misconceptions," visit: http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/articles/dog_whispering.php.

Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do? Part 2

On the Popular TV series "COPS" they play a song which says, in part, "Bad boys, bad boys, whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you?" Many people bring home an adorable, cute puppy that eventually grows into a dog. Without proper training, some of those dogs become destructive and eventually the owners shrug their shoulders and say "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, whatcha gonna do?" Hopefully, those people will read articles like this one, "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do? Part 1," and others like them before they do the unthinkable and call the "Dog Police" to take their beloved pet to the pound!

In "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do? Part 1" we explained the "Dog Pack" instinct, and the "Alpha Dog" mentality, and gave suggestions on how to "reprogram" your dog so that he/she knows that you are the Alpha dog. You can find that article in the Dog Articles Feature at K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises - www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com. In addition to those "Alpha Dog" techniques, there are other things you can do to help alleviate your "bad dog behavior." This article will teach you ways to "deprogram" your misbehaving dog so you can retrain him properly and thus facilitate a more harmonious relationship between family and pet.

But before we proceed, if you suffer from "bad dog syndrome" with your family pet, make sure there isn't an underlying medical condition. Take your dog to the vet, explain your problem, and ensure he/she is healthy, and doesn't suffer from dental, intestinal, digestion, parasitic, or other problems. Once you find that your dog is indeed healthy, implement the following suggestions.

1. Read other articles, magazines, ezines, and books on dogs, training and behavior. The more you know the better trainer you'll be.

2. Be consistent. Just like a child, your dog will notice your inconsistencies, and will "test your mettle" by pushing the boundaries to determine who is really in control. Do it the same way every time.

3. Earn your dog's respect. Be firm and fair in training and discipline. Never resort to violence. Positive reinforcement techniques have always proven the more successful training method. Your dog's submission to you should always be out of respect, not fear.

4. Spend quality time with your dog. Interact with your dog. Quite often, the cause of misbehavior in dogs is similar to that in children. They are simply looking for QUALITY TIME, ATTENTION and LOVE. Remember all the love and attention you gave that sweet, adorable puppy? Well, your adult dog still craves that same love and attention. Just be careful when giving that attention to a problem dog, to always retain your alpha status.

5. During training sessions, always maintain eye contact with your dog until he turns away. That way he knows you are the master and he is submissive to you. I once maintained eye contact with a strong-willed Brittany for 12 minutes before he finally looked away. Demand your dog's attention during short training sessions. (A dog's attention span is a maximum of ten to fifteen minutes). As examples, command your dog to heel, and then look at you before commencing a walk. Or make your dog sit or lie down before getting treats.

6. Give your dog plenty of exercise. Take her for a thirty minute walk – the exercise will do you good, give her the attention she deserves, and tire her out so she prefers to rest instead of wreaking havoc! Dogs are a bundle of bounding energy. They can't help it, God wired them that way! Give them an outlet for that energy. If you live in the woods like I do, let them out to run and play. (However, I always pen them up at night either outside in a fence with dog houses, or I kennel them inside in cages and kennel crates with crate pads or beds). Take your dog to a park, or better yet, one of those fancy new dog parks where dogs are allowed to play and socialize. Let your dog out in a fenced yard, or if you don't have or don't like a fenced yard, get an electronic fence and containment system, so your dog knows the boundaries of where they can and can't go safely. K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises - www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com has some great inside and outside electronic dog containment systems, kennel crates, cages, pads, and beds.

7. Feed your dog a high protein, well balanced diet. Sometimes, dog misbehavior is simply a result of hunger and/or malnutrition. I suggest looking for food with meat and rice as the first ingredients, rather than corn meal and meat by-products. I also suggest a protein content of 24-30% and fat content of 10-18%. This will ensure a strong, healthy dog with a shiny coat.

8. Remove temptation. Put trash cans and people food out of the dog's reach. If you have a destructive dog, put him in the yard or in a kennel crate or cage while you are at work or gone from the house. If you let him out to "do his business" in the morning before you leave for work, he will be fine in an appropriately sized kennel cage or crate with pillow pad until you return. If needed, you can find sizing guidelines and the appropriate kennel crates, cages, carriers, pads, beds, and other supplies at K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises - www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com.

9. If needed, use appropriate training tools. Although choke collars should be a thing of the past because of the possible danger of injury to your dog's larynx, an electronic collar is a humane training tool that can provide an appropriate negative "signal," followed by your positive reinforcement for right behavior. With proper use, in a short time just wearing the collar brings appropriate good behavior. Very few things are more disturbing to a dog lover that seeing your beloved pet run out into the street and get hit by a car, or watching your $1000 bird dog run over the hill never to be seen again. However, if you know your limitations and feel you cannot handle the job yourself, you can find many reputable dog trainers who specialize in behavior problems. Your local vet can probably assist you if needed.

10. Finally, be patient. Positive training and dog behavior modification takes time. Your dog will soon begin to behave in a more positive manner if you follow these helpful suggestions.

Hopefully, these ideas and suggestions, along with a better understanding of who your dog is, will soon move you from saying "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do?" to saying, "Good Dog, Good Dog, Oh How I Love You!"

You can find all the AWESOME products you need for training and spoiling your special dog at K-9 Outfitters, a Division of Damascus Road Enterprises – www.Damascus-Road-enterprises.com.

About The Author
Danny Presswood is a retired US Army Combat (Airborne) Chaplain. He and his wife Cheri live in the wooded Ozarks hills of SW MO, where he can be reached at BlessedByCalvary@aol.com or (417) 461-0800. Presently working on his Doctorate, Danny writes the Dog Articles Feature K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises http://www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com. K-9 Outfitters offers a plethora of AWESOME discount, luxury, unique, and Handmade in the USA Online Dog Supplies.

Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do? Part 1

On a recent episode of "America's Funniest Home Videos," (AFV) one of the top three submissions for the $10,000 prize was a video of the "aftermath" of destruction done to a home by the family's pet dog. This destructive dog had torn the door off an end table, ripped the frame completely off a doorway, destroyed a patio door screen and frame, shredded carpeting, broken glassware, and had literally "eaten" a three foot by four foot hole in the wall – destroying sheetrock, insulation, and framing in the process. I was horrified and appalled as I watched the video and listened to the mixture of giggles and gasps from the viewing audience. It was as if the poor, unsuspecting family shrugged their shoulders and said "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do?"

The more appropriate question, however, is "My dog, my dog, WHY do you do what you do?" The answer to that question is not a simple one. Entire books have been written concerning "bad dog behavior." And the truth is that every dog is different, and therefore, there is no "pat answer" for every situation. However, a basic understanding of "Who dogs are, and How they behave" will lead us to some appropriate suggestions on how to handle difficult and domineering dogs. You can find this article, along with "Bad Dog, Bad Dog" Part 2, in the Dog Articles Feature at K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises.

But before we proceed, if you suffer from "bad dog syndrome" with your family pet, make sure there isn't an underlying medical condition. Take your dog to the vet, explain your problem, and ensure he/she is healthy, and doesn't suffer from dental, intestinal, digestion, parasitic, or other problems. Once you find that your dog is healthy, the following information should prove helpful.

Dogs are, by nature, pack animals. Pack animal behavior is instinctive from before dogs were domesticated and lived in the wild. Every pack has a hierarchy, and every animal in the pack has duties, responsibilities, and expectations. Since your dog doesn't live in the wild, he/she assumes you, your family, and other household pets make up the "pack." Many times, "bad dog behavior" is a result of confusion over "Alpha Dog Status" or "Alpha Dog Mentality." You must establish that you are the "Alpha" dog in the pack. You must also establish that other family members, to include the children, all rank higher in the pack than your dog does. There are many ways to effectively put your dog in his proper pack ranking. Here are a few suggestions, or rules, for handling domineering dogs, and establishing pack rankings:

1. When you enter the house, make sure your dog enters last, even if you must put her on a leash. You'll find great leashes, harnesses, collars and leads at K-9 Oufitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises. http://www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com

2. Alpha dogs want the run of the entire house. Make sure certain areas of the home are out of bounds for the dog. That may include certain bedrooms, the laundry room, bathrooms, or the den. This helps the dog know you are master of the house, not him.

3. Alpha dogs occupy high traffic areas, like hallways and entryways. Don't step over or go around the dog, nudge the dog and tell her to move out of your way, and make sure she does so. This lets her know who owns the space and who is in charge.

4. Don't allow your dog to DEMAND your attention. Dogs usually do this by climbing on your lap, or by nudging your hand or arm. Make the dog sit, lie down, etc., and then give lavish praise and attention. Remember, you control when you give your dog attention, affection, and praise.

5. Exercise control over your dog's possessions. Take away all her toys, then give her a command, and when she obeys, give her the toy as a treat. After she plays with it for awhile, take it away again.

6. When you come home, make your dog greet you first. Ignore him until he does. He must be submissive to you, not the other way around.

7. Establish dog eating times. In the pack, the Alpha dog always eats first, and then the other dogs eat. Make sure the family eats first, followed by the dog. If you must feed the dog first, pretend to eat something first, then feed your dog. Leave the dog's food out for 10-15 minutes, then take it up, whether the dog is finished or not. She will learn quickly to eat when fed.

8. Always stroke (pet) your dog around the head, neck, and shoulders. These are vulnerable areas for the dog, and shows that you are superior. Be careful not to stroke your dog around the chest, because this puts him in the dominating position and undermines your authority as alpha dog.

9. Don't allow your dog to sleep in your bed! I know that's a tough one for some folks, but believe me, it's best for all concerned. The best thing to do is provide the dog with her own cage, crate, or bed. Put it in your bedroom if that helps you, but do it. Dogs like "Kennel" by nature. They like a safe, snug place they can call their own. You can find a wide variety of kennels, cages, crates, and beds at K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises. http://www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com

Your dog is your pet. Ultimately, all he/she really wants is your love and affection (i.e. time together). Hopefully, these ideas and suggestions, along with a better understanding of who your dog is and the role he plays in the family relationship, will soon move you from saying "Bad Dog, Bad Dog, Whatcha Gonna Do?" to saying, "Good Dog, Good Dog, Oh How I Love You!"

By the way, the "Destructive Dog" video did not win a prize on AFV, although I'm sure the family could have used the money for repairs. Following our guidelines would prove a lot less expensive and would make for a much more harmonious family and pet relationship. You can find all the AWESOME products you need for training and spoiling your special dog at K-9 Outfitters, a Division of Damascus Road Enterprises. www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com.

About The Author
Danny Presswood is a retired US Army Combat (Airborne) Chaplain. He and his wife Cheri live in the wooded Ozarks hills of SW MO, where he can be reached at BlessedByCalvary@aol.com or (417) 461-0800. Presently working on his Doctorate, Danny writes the Dog Articles Feature K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises http://www.Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com. K-9 Outfitters offers a plethora of AWESOME discount, luxury, unique, and Handmade in the USA Online Dog Supplies.

Click And Treat Is For The Dogs

Becoming the first major improvement in dog training since choke chains and spiked collars, click and treat has quickly revolutionized itself in becoming a big hit on the training circuit. Currently, there are over 10,000 trainers who are using this method regularly.

Used in the beginning to train marine mammals, click and treat breaks down the process into two separate steps, information and motivation. While other trainers still emphasize on these two steps, they try to teach them all at once, which can confuse the animal and prolong results.

Most trainers will verbally praise a dog for good behavior, while at the same time motivating the dog to repeat his actions. This can be a good method, however it takes longer for the dog to understand which behaviors and actions caused the praise from the trainer. With the click and treat method, the processes are easily taught. In normal training, a person would say "good boy" when a welcomed action occurs and proceed with giving a treat. The clicker becomes a substitute for verbal praise and can actually catch the "good boy" behavior quicker than saying it, letting the dog know exactly which behavior he is being rewarded for.

First things first, in order to try click and treat, the trainer must invest in a clicker, which can be found at most pet supply stores. The training itself is quick and rather easy for the dog and his trainer.

Another way to look at click and treat training is viewing it as a secondary reinforcement, while food, water, physical affection and play (things the dog wants) become primary reinforcement. When you take a dog for a walk, the leash works as a secondary reinforcement. It is obvious to the dog that the leash is not taking him for a walk; the owner is, however, it triggers a reaction in the dog, telling him that the leash will let him know where he will go and where he will not. And if he reacts to the leash with good behavior, his reward will be a nice leisurely walk. Click and treat works the same way. When a dog hears the clicker, he will know that he performed a good behavior and as long as he keeps hearing a click, there are rewards coming to him. So, the clicker works as a secondary reinforcement, teaching him boundaries and appropriate behavior.

A couple advantages of the click and treat method include, 1) faster response than verbal praise. The clicker can identify the exact behavior at the time it happens, 2) it takes the place of treats. While motivating the dog to hear clicks, it will also teach him to work without the expectations of having treats given to him each time he does something good, and 3) if the trainer is working at a distance from the dog, the clicker will still work, without having to be right next him.

A good method to use when getting started with click and treat is to stand in front of the animal. Click the clicker and give a treat. Continue doing this for 20-30 minutes, or until the dog becomes startled by the sound of the click. This will familiarize him to the clicking sound, while teaching him that every time he hears it, he has done something good. After he gets the hang of it, begin by adding commands, such as "sit" and "stay."

Click and treat has proven to be a simple, yet consistent training method with quick results. So for the trainers out there who are looking for a new and innovative way to motivate and praise their animals, get out there, buy a clicker and…..click!

About The Author
Kirsten Hawkins is a dog lover and animal expert from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.doghealth411.com/ for more information on dog health, the care of dogs, and dog travel.

Top Ten Dog Training Mistakes

If you are in the process of training your dog or considering it, then you might like to check the following list to ensure that you are not making one of the common mistakes.

1) Giving different words for the same command.

If you want your dog to obey your commands, you must be consistent with the words that you use. For example you may issue the command "Sit" most of the time. It is no good expecting your dog to also sit down when you say "Get down off my favourite chair"

2) Rubbing nose in urine

This has no affect on training a dog. All you are doing is burning is nose. Which is probably something that you don't want to do.

3) Smacking, hitting and punishing the dog.

Experts dog trainers have shown that this type of human behaviour has no positive effect on a dog,

4) Shouting

This will just confuse the dog. Remember, that the whole point of verbal commands is that you have taught the dog to learn from the sound of your voice to link it to an action that he needs to take.

5) Letting the dog eat at the same time as you.

This indicates to the dog that he is your equal. What you need to do is let the dog eat after you. This will teach him that you are the master and in control.

6) Making training session to long.

15 minutes is just about right for a training session. This keeps it fun for young dogs that can have a short attention span.

7) Starting training too late in the dogs life

It's far easier to train a young puppy. As a dog gets older you will have to put in a lot more obedience training and may have to take the dog to a training school.

8) Puppy crate to big

Puppies don't like to be a in a big crate. It makes them feel uncomfortable. You can get crates that are adjustable. So that as the dog gets bigger you can adjust the size of the crate to accommodate him.

9) Training the dog when you are in a bad mood.

Don't train the dog when you are in a bad mood. This means that the tone of your voice will be different and the dog will not be able to link your verbal commands to the action that he should take.

10) Not giving lots of praise.

To enforce your commands, when the dog has taken the right action give him lots of praise.

About The Author
Copyright Rachel Brett 2005
If you need more information about dog training techniques then please visit my dog training resource website for information and techniques on how to make improvements.
http://www.informationondogtraining.com

3 Important Dog Training Tips

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Dog training can be a grueling process but if done correctly, it can be very rewarding in the end. Whether you have a dog in the city, the suburbs, or the country, a trained dog is always easier to handle, especially when it comes to social situations.

1. Be fair with corrections.

Be sure that your dog comprehends what you want before you correct him for not doing it. Also, let the punishment fit the crime. A correction should not be a release of anger on your dog. Instead, a correction is a way to communicate with your dog, a way to foster in him a clear understanding of his place in your human pack. At its mildest level, a correction can be the absence of praise. Before jerking the leash, remember to ask yourself if you're being fair.

2. Be positive.

As a dog's trainer, you must have the right attitude. Praise that is well timed and appropriate is essential to your dog's learning process. If all that you ever do is say "no!" to your dog, your relationship isn't going to be a very good one. How would you like to work with a boss like that?

Praise is cheap and free - so use alot of it! Use praise when your dog attempts to get it right. Use it more when your dog is successful in his task. Use it when your dog pays attention to you, because that's the first step in the training. It's not necessary to be some gushing goof, but you should let your dog know when you're proud of him.

3. You and your dog are on the same team.

Don't think of training your dog as a you versus your dog endeavor. Instead, think about the two of you being on the same team, albeit in different positions. Just as if you were the quarterback, you call the plays. Winning is a team effort. It's just a matter of your dog learning the plays first, and you're the one to teach him.

As a team, you will need to spend time together. Bring him into your life. Let him sleep in a crate in your bedroom, practice his "sits" in the kitchen. The more opportunities for interaction and practice you have, the faster and more reliably your dog will perform.

About The Author
Felix Senhouse is a contributor for http://www.familydogcare.com.
Family Dog Care is your complete resource for dog related news and information, covering topics that range from dog training to dog nutrition.

Dealing With House Training Your Dog

House training is one of those issues that every dog owner must grapple with. In most cases house training is the first major milestone in the relationship between owner and dog, and it can sometimes be difficult and confusing for owner and dog alike.

The best house training procedures are those that use the dog's own instincts to the owner's advantage. These strategies take into account the dog's reluctance to soil the spots where he eats and sleeps. This is the concept behind den training and crate training. Dogs are very clean animals, and in nature they always avoid using their dens as toilet areas.

These kinds of natural training methods generally work very well, for both puppies and older dogs. Naturally, older, larger dogs will need a larger area for their den, and crate training is generally best used for puppies and small dogs.

When house training a dog or a puppy, however, it is important to pay close attention to the signals the dog is sending. It is also important to be consistent when it comes to feeding times, and to provide the dog with ready access to the toilet area you establish on a regular basis.

It is important as well to never try to rush the process of house training. While some dogs are naturally easier to train, most puppies and adult dogs will experience at least one or two slip ups during the house training process. When these accidents occur, it is important to not get mad and punish the dog. Accidents during house training usually mean that the owner is trying to move too fast, or that the dog has been left alone for too long. In this case, it is best to just take a step back and start the process again.

It is also important for the owner to reward the dog enthusiastically when it does its business in the appointed area. The dog should learn to associate doing its business in its toilet area with good things like treats, rewards and praise.

During the house training process, the den area starts out very small, often as small as half of a small room in the beginning. As the dog learns to control his bladder and bowels better, and the owner learns to anticipate the dog's toilet needs, the den area can be slowly expanded. It is important not to make the den area too large too soon. The den area must be expanded slowly in order for the house training process to move along smoothly.

It is important for the dog to be properly introduced to its den. Many dogs, particularly those who have never been confined before, such as those who have spent their lives as outdoor dogs, may react to the den area as if it is a prison, and constantly whine, cry and try to escape the den. It is important that the dog learn to accept its den as a home and not a cage.

One problem many dog owners overlook when house training a dog is that of boredom. Boredom is actually the root cause of many behavior problems in dogs, including chewing and other destructive behaviors. Boredom can also be the root cause of problems with house training. Dogs that are bored often consume large amounts of water during the day, and this excess water consumption can lead to the need to urinate often, even in its den area. Since soiling the den area goes against the dog's nature, he can quickly become confused and frightened, thereby setting the house training program back even further.

To prevent the dog from becoming bored when you are away from home, be sure to provide him with lots of different kinds of toys, as well as a safe and secure place to sleep. In addition, a vigorous period of play time can help the dog sleep while you are away. In addition, playing with the dog in its den area will help him bond with this area and recognize it as a safe, secure home.

About The Author
Burt Cotton
http://www.dogtrainingnews.org

Simple Method To House Train Your Dog

How long should it take to house train a dog? It depends on several factors; your dedication, and the time you are willing to put into the training process. Other important factors include your dogs maturity and intelligence.

Dogs are instinctively clean animals. If at all possible they will avoid soiling the areas where they sleep and eat. Dogs are very much creatures of habit, and they tend to pick certain areas to do their "business", and these areas become habitual voiding areas. A good example of this: dogs that eliminate on grass or dirt will always prefer grass or dirt. They will not cooperate when concrete or gravel is involved. You can use this fact when training your dog.

I recommend the owner establish a living area for the dog as soon as you bring the dog into your home. While the dog is getting to know its new environment, it is smart to give the new family member a small space of its own. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and enjoy having the comfort of a den. I recommend this area be a small area, such as a kitchen or hallway, and an area that you can gate, when need be. (I do not recommend that crate-training or bathrooms be used as the small area.) I look at a crate for what it is; a cage.

Set up a good territory for your dog and a comfortable bed (that eventually can be moved to what ever room in the house you prefer your pet to sleep), and toys to play with. All meals should be offered in the dog's special space. It is very important that you spend time with the dog in its space. So make time to play with the dog in its own territory. This area is meant to be only a transitional space. The dogs' rights are being respected, yet at the same time the dog is getting to know a new way of life, a life that will soon include the run of a house, and a human family.

The next step is to establish an area outdoors that you wish to be your dog's toilet area. Remember, dogs will develop a habit very easily, so make sure you put some thought into the choice.

When house training a dog, you must take the dogs age into consideration. Most good breeders won't let their pups go to their new home until they are three to four months old, and are well ready to be house trained. My method of house training is tried and true. It is actually very simple, but tedious.

When bringing your new dog home, before entering the house, take the pup to the area you have designated to be his special voiding area. Let the dog play a bit in this area. With luck, the pup will work up a void. This is the best scenario. Start right off by telling your new puppy, "that's a good dog." Dogs love to be verbally rewarded. You have begun to train your dog.

It's time to bring the puppy into its new home. Introduce the dog to its special space. The first day will be hectic. Keep a close eye on the pup. If you see any tell-tale signs of "I am going to go," rush that dog outside to its voiding area.

It is smart to set up a feeding schedule. It makes it a bit easier to approximate when your dog will have a bowel movement. If possible, follow the breeder's schedule for your dog, keeping the dog on the same food it is used to eating. You will notice the dog will be fairly regular with bowel movements after eating. By rule of thumb most dogs will want to void shortly after eating. Most dogs are like alarm clocks.

Rule of thumb: take the dog out to void every two hours. (Waking hours that is). At this point I am sure you are probably saying to yourself, most dogs don't go that often! And you are right, they don't. This method of training may be a real inconvenience for a few days, but the rewards of a well trained happy dog are well worth the added trips you will be taking outside.

As I mentioned, the dog will not void each time, but he will be learning quickly that this is "the place to go".

When the dog voids, make a big old fuss. Reward with petting, verbal reward, and yes, some of the time a "goodie." Don't always offer a food treat; the dog should learn that treats do not always come after a void.

If accidents occur, take the dog outside with only a low tone verbal scold. Don't carry on terribly. Never swat or hit a dog to show displeasure. Most of the time when a dog voids in the house, it is due to human error. The human was not around or not paying attention to the dog's voiding signals. Dogs are clean animals, with a good amount of dignity. This dignity can be belittled out of a dog. So have patience when training your dog. The rewards will be great.

Nighttime Training. I suggest putting down papers as far from the bed and food areas as possible. You might be surprised with the fact that after a very few days your dog will not void at night, but wait until morning to get out to their voiding area. You see, they learn quickly that they can trust and depend on you to get them to their voiding area, and much prefer waiting then voiding in their indoor space.

This method of house training as I stated can be hectic for a few days. But I have had great success training my own dogs with this method. By following these few and simple directions, I am sure you will find it not only easy, but a speedy method to house training your new dog. As a rule, in a week's time, the dog is ready to be integrated into the home.

In regards to leaving your dog alone in the house, I recommend that they be gated in their special area until you are well sure they won't mess in the house.

Most healthy dogs can hold urine for up to 6 hours. Puppies can hold for up to 3 hours.

Until your dog is old enough and has developed a strong habit of eliminating in one area, it is very important that you accompany your dog outside every time they void. As the dog becomes older and more obedient, you will be able to let it out on its own to void. The dog should be trained to come in when called. Note: I recommend no dog be let free to roam outdoors without a fenced yard. Even the smartest dog can bolt when the right stimulus runs in its path. Remember, dogs have great hunting instincts.

Take Note: If you have a dog that has previously been house trained, and all of a sudden is having accidents, you should not try to retrain with this method. I suggest the dog be seen by a veterinarian. Your pet could be showing signs of illness, possibly infection, which needs medical attention, not re-training.

About The Author
Sharon Stajda is a proud owner of a well trained Westie. For more dog training tips, visit the following url: http://www.oldandsold.com/articles02/dog_training1.shtml