MARY JO NAGY | Pets Obedience classes create consistency

Do you have a dog that pulls your arm off every time you go for a walk? Does he jump all over your friends when they come to visit? Does he lunge for the door every time it opens? Is he mouthing you when you play? Is he chewing your new furniture? Behaviors and obedience problems are the number one reason why people render their animals to pounds or shelters.
No puppy or dog is perfect; however, dogs are intelligent animals that can learn quickly with consistency and positive training techniques. You don't need to be an expert to have a well-trained pet. With patience and a little effort on your part, you can have an obedient, well-behaved dog.
Obedience training helps to build a foundation of mutual trust, respect, and understanding between the dog and handler. With obedience classes you will benefit from an ongoing confidence in your ability to communicate with your canine companion. Training will expose your dog to children and adults, other animals and new situations. There are courses designed for all ages and levels of skill.
The first step to a well-trained dog is socialization. Socializing is the conditioning of your dog to accept the activities of everyday life in and beyond the security of your home and property.
Dogs that are socialized are less aggressive and less likely to bite. Secondly, training will teach you how to obtain and maintain your dog's attention. Finally, obedience training will teach you to teach your dog some basic commands, such as come, sit, stay, heel and down. You will learn how to deliver consistent responses and positive reinforcement, and it's fun.
Difficult behaviors
There are some behaviors, however, that obedience training can't cure. You will need to talk with a behavior specialist, trainer or veterinarian for assistance.
One such behavior is chewing. Remember some chewing is normal. Give your dog proper toys or bones to chew. Chewing your shoes, plants or furniture is not OK. You can purchase products at your local pet store that can be sprayed on shoes, plants, furniture, woodwork, etc. that will leave a bad taste in your dog's mouth but won't hurt him.
You can also use a crate to protect your pet. In the wild, most canines rely on snug, enclosed dens to raise their young and to provide a refuge. These dens have a calming effect. A crate works in the same way. Crating is often used when you are going to be away from home.
This not only saves your valuables but also keeps your pet safe and secure. Crates are never to be used as a punishment. You may call Angels for Animals for effective crate training techniques and to take advantage of our crate rental program.
Housebreaking can be frustrating. Crates can be used along with a good schedule for "going out times". Consistency is the key to housebreaking. Don't give up in a few days; it may take several weeks to several months before your pet knows the routine.
Separation and energy
Separation anxiety is a problem for many dogs. Dogs appear to be frightened that their people will not return to them. Separation from the family results in destructive behavior or elimination of urine or feces when you leave. Crating is also a useful tool for separation anxiety. For severe cases, please consult your veterinarian.
Too much energy is a common complaint. Your dog needs to be exercised daily. A walk around the block or a game of fetch will help curb that energy.
Try a ball or Frisbee toss. Exercise can also control destructive digging, which is usually a sign of boredom.
There are many behaviors that can cause a pet owner to throw their hands in the air and want to give up. Don't! Your pet is counting on you to teach him good behaviors. Most dogs just want to please and will learn with positive reinforcement.
An obedient dog does not happen over night, it takes practice on a daily basis. If you are experiencing problem behaviors with your pet, call Angels for Animals for times and dates of our free monthly behavior class or to speak with our behavior specialist.
XMary Jo Nagy is a volunteer with Angels for Animals.