Basic Principles of Obedience (or any) Training
1. Be consistent! Use the same command for each
exercise-be specific and do not alternate terms between commands for any exercise (ex. Down, Lie Down, Get Down, Drop, etc.)
Pick only one and stick with it!
2. During Obedience training use short commands that can’t be confused with others. Use a pleasant conversational tone of voice at all times.
3. Never underestimate the power of praise - award it liberally and often! Do not hit your dog, but if discipline is necessary, shake it by the scruff much as a bitch would do when reprimanding her pups.
4. Keep session lengths short. Do not train so long that the dog becomes bored. Finish with the dog performing at his peak level.
5. Always refer to your dog by name throughout training- not as ‘boy’, ‘sweetie’, etc.
6. Train a little each day. Five minutes is enough for a young puppy. Obedience training times may increase as the dog matures.
Return from Obedience Exercise to Epilepsy in GSD's
"Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot about little puppies."-- Gene Hill
