Large and Small Dog Training Tips
Different breeds of dogs have different characteristics and all require calmness and patience in training. Some will be easily distracted, but intelligent. Some are less intelligent but eager to please. It is important though to take size into consideration, no matter the character of the dog. More training options are usually available with small dogs as they are easily transported. However, they tend to bark more often and will often be either too fearful or too bold. Training in bark suppression is often needed. It is best to begin young and train regularly. You need to establish yourself as 'alpha' (leader of the pack) immediately by responding firmly to any challenge. Don't be railroaded by 'cuteness'. Remember to be particularly careful if undertaking leash training with a smaller dog, always pulling sideways on the neck (by jerk, tug or restraint) rather than back. Pull sideways to correct and inform, not punish, if the dog moves forward. The throat is easily bruised, especially on small dogs. When encouraging a sit be mindful not to apply excessive pressure on the hindquarters. It is easy to force instead of direct small dogs, due to the size difference. There are also challenges that come with large dogs. It is important to remember that the weight/strength ratio between trainer and dog favors the dog, and this needs to be taken into account when training. You must always be alert. An unexpected pull on the leash by a small dog can be annoying, but can be dangerous when carried out by a large one. If a German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Rhodesian Ridgeback, or even a larger breed chooses to chase after a cat you need to be ready to resist. A good leash will be at least an inch thick, made of nylon or leather. Make sure the collar is wide and equipped with quality fasteners that won't break under tension. grasp the loop at the end of the leash in your right hand and insert your thumb through the loop when walking. Then take a few inches of the leash to your left and fold and drape them over your left palm. Insert your left hand's thumb through the little loop formed. Clamp the leash across your left palm. (For right handed people, walking with the dog on the left. Reverse directions as needed.) It is important to perform corrections by pulling sideways, not back, as with small dogs. Though larger, their throats also bruise easily with excessive force. Just jerk and release. It also helps put them momentarily off balance. Even well trained and socialized large dogs will sometimes go after small children. It’s often difficult to tell whether they see them as prey or just as someone their size to play with. Take care not to allow jumping. Until the dog is trained to dependably respond to voice commands, always be prepared with leash corrections Large dogs are more likely to try and scale fences. A potential lawsuit awaits when they clear it, and a vet bill is likely when they don’t. It’s uncommon that broken bones will occurs, but they often get scrapes on the belly which the dog will turn into hot spots - raw patches of skin - requiring treatment. Even the most well trained dog will sometimes give into instinct and chase after another animal, so ensure that barriers are high and sturdy. Acceptable behavior and guidelines can only be learnt with daily training in both large and small dogs. And a well trained dog results in a safer and more loving pet. To ensure a well balanced relationship with your dog, you need to be the leader, and the dogs should have clear, consistent rules to follow. More Dog Training Tips Articles: | 