Training Your Dog

Creating a life-long bond

The best dogs are those completely in sync with their humans, in a relationship based on love and patience. soul_studio/Shutterstock

Most dogs are eager to please, but they need to learn what is expected of them. Training is an ongoing process that begins with how to get along with their owners.

The first step in training a dog is getting rid of the notion of owning a dog; they are sensitive, living creatures with deep emotions. Even military and law enforcement K9 handlers view their canine partners as much more than a tool. Dogs see their master as the leader of the pack, whom they want to please. Giving the dog love and being patient are essential for successful training.

The first question is “who will train the pup?” There are many answers, including boarding schools and in-person classes led by experts, but all options must include the dog’s owners. The best human–dog relationships are based on trust and affection.

The bond between a dog and its human is very special, with both parties learning about loyalty and unconditional love from each other. Maria Moroz/Shutterstock

Some owners are concerned about having a dog alongside young children, and many decide to rehome their dog when children enter the equation. But in many cases, the bond that forms between a dog and a young child is one that is often cherished for years.

A recent example involves Penny, a pit bull in Kentucky who remained at the side of the family’s 2-year-old daughter while she was lost in the woods for two days, faithfully guarding and comforting the child until rescuers discovered them.

Dogs are eager to please, so it's important to teach them the basic commands that will make sure they have great manners. MuchMania/Shutterstock

The most basic training starts with socialization and potty training. Focusing on these lays a foundation for progressing to more advanced skills such as those taught in the American Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) numerous online training programs.

Potty training is a critical skill every dog needs to master. Pee pad training helps avoid the trauma of “accidents” for those times the pup can’t make it outside in time. Tikhonova Yana/Shutterstock

Created by experienced trainers who know the classwork involves teaching the human as much as the dog, these focus on puppy training, how to keep dogs from chasing cars, dealing with separation anxiety, training with treats, establishing a fitness program, getting started in dog shows, and many more subjects. Even those who have had dogs for many years may benefit from these courses.

However, those who are new to dogs will need some training themselves; one good option is to attend private or group classes held by Petsmart, Petco, or another retailer. In these multiweek courses, both the human and the pup learn basic to advanced skills in a fun, encouraging atmosphere.

Attaching a leash to a harness is healthier for small dogs than attaching it to a collar. If the dog is a service dog, consider a harness that also identifies it as such. Chuck Wagner/Shutterstock

Most dogs are eager to please, and when they realize they get praise and treats for learning how to sit or fetch, they’ll be begging to go to class. Sometimes older dogs who haven’t been trained or have been traumatized by being rehomed may need more direction than the owner can provide. In these cases, sending them to a specialized school may be the most effective way to prepare them for home life.

There are many programs to choose from, such as Canine Peace of Mind. Located in Chicago, this organization offers a two-week-long behavioral training program designed to instill proper manners. It can be difficult to spend time apart from the dog, but these programs may be a way to set the dog back on course, which is all it really wants. Local private training is another option, in which the pet and the human are coached by a trainer.

While the average person isn’t qualified to train a seeing-eye dog, many dogs can be trained by their humans to perform helpful services. Motortion Films/Shutterstock

Dogs have long served as faithful protectors and hunting companions, but a growing number are taking on roles of service dogs who aid those in wheelchairs, guide the blind, react to sound for deaf people, or open doors and fetch items for disabled people; therapy dogs who visit hospitals and nursing homes; emotional support animals who ease anxiety or phobias; and working dogs trained for search and rescue missions or to detect explosives or drugs for police and military personnel.

Dogs love to please their humans, so find ways to challenge them, such as agility courses that are fun and help keep them fit. Provide praise and occasional treats for a job well done. Kamil Macniak/Shutterstock

The AKC and organizations including US Service Animals and even a number of YouTube channels offer online DIY training programs, with in-person programs also worth consideration. USA Service Dog Registration has a list of training facilities across the United States.

Every dog can benefit from training. And although a lot of people start with puppies, keep in mind that even old dogs can learn new tricks. The human-dog relationship is a special one. It all starts with sit and stay.