Dog training is important for boosting their confidence, and allows them to adapt easily to new environments. It allows them to understand their boundaries and prevents behavioral issues among them. Your dog will learn what is acceptable behavior and what is not, making them well-behaved in different situations. 

Professional dog and puppy training can address issues like excessive barking, jumping, or aggression, allowing both dogs and pet parents to enjoy peacefully. There are different methods of dog training and you need to choose the one that suits your dog. In this blog post, we will delve into popular dog training methods to allow you to choose the appropriate one for your furry friend. Explore more below. 

5 Popular Dog and Puppy Training Methods Pet Parents Should Know

1. Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement is one of the most popular dog and puppy training methods. It is a widely recommended method that’s based on rewarding your dog when they follow your command. This encourages your pooch to behave well. It’s a simple approach as your dog will follow the commands when they know they are more likely to get treats, toys, and appreciation for doing the same. 

For example, if you command your dog to sit or stay, and they follow it, you will offer them their favorite treats, or toys, or show appreciation that they did a good job. It will take your dog some time to associate good behavior with positive reinforcement, but they will continue it. 

2. Model-Rival Training 

As the name suggests, the model-rival dog training method uses a model that is typically another dog in most cases. This other dog will be used to help you understand the expected behavior. 

Your puppy or dog will see that you are rewarding some other dog when they follow your commands. Consequently, they will mimic the same behavior to get treats and appreciation from you. This model can be personal as well. Dogs are naturally observant and hence this method can help your dog learn commands quickly. 

3. Clicker Training

Clicker training is similar to the positive reinforcement training method. It uses a device that makes a clicking sound. The clicker lets your dog understand that they are supposed to perform a desired behavior. This sound will make your pooch learn whether they did the right thing or not. 

After the click, if you think your dog did what you expected, reward them with treats and show your love. For example, you gave your dog the command “stay” and then clicked the clicker. If your dog stays in command, you will now give them treats. This will make them understand that the click sound is earning them rewards. 

Other Important Links-

https://www.justiceforleia.com/blog/common-dog-training-mistakes/

https://www.justiceforleia.com/blog/common-challenges-in-k9-puppy-training/

4. Dominance Training

This is an old dog and puppy training method where trainers make the dog understand that the owner is in charge. This method enforces that the dog needs to see you as an owner and follow strict rules. 

It includes techniques like making your pooch wait for food, using physician corrections like lease jerks, and not letting them on furniture. The idea behind this is to give your dog a picture that you’re the dominant leader. 

While this method can address behavioral issues, if used incorrectly, it can also result in aggression and fear. If you love your pet as a parent, you must avoid this method as it can negatively impact your relationship with your dog. 

5. Electronic Training

Electronic training is a method that uses a device called an e-collar that gives mild electric stimulation to your dog if they misbehave or don’t follow commands. This method is typically used for off-leash training, or for dogs with severe behavioral issues like chasing. 

In this method, the trainer will place an e-collar around your pet’s neck, and when they don’t behave well, or bark excessively, give a small electric shock through the collar. The purpose of doing this is to attract your dog’s attention and help them understand that this isn’t an acceptable behavior. 

This method should only be used under the supervision of the trainer and avoid using it excessively as it can damage the bond between you and your dog. 

When it comes to dog training, there is not a single size that fits all. Every dog is different and you need to evaluate their personality, behaviors, and lifestyle to choose the best dog and puppy training method. For most dogs, a positive reinforcement method is great. But don’t forget to ensure your dog’s well-being in the first place.