Obedience Training for Dogs

While training the dog the first command is the “watch me” command and is considered to be the hardest command in dog training.  The “watch me” command should be taught as a basic command in obedience training so that the trainer can get the required attention of the dog to teach further.

It is very difficult to get the attention of the dog as they tend to play and listen whenever they like, without having them to listen how can a person teach obedience?  Hence, this “watch me” command plays a vital role in dog training.  When this command is taught the dog learns to listen to you by focusing the attention on you.

To teach this command, the trainer should take the first step of starting with pup playing.  It means getting the attention of the dog while playing, as the dogs are engrossed in the play it is very crucial to get their attention.  Attention of the dog is got by placing a treat with a strong odor like a hot dog in front of the dogs face and waved until the attention of the dog is got.  Once made to notice, the trainer moves the treat near the chin and says “watch me”.  The trainer needs to get the dog look into his eyes and wait till such time and reward it by giving the treat.

When done repeatedly during the beginning stages of dog training, the dog gets an idea of a treat and also learns to look in the eyes of the trainer.  Sooner, the dog also learns the meaning of “watch me”.  Once the dog recognizes the command, the trainer can move to the next stage of dog training.  Gradually wean the pup from the treats and just appreciate them for attending to the trainer’s command.  Within a shorter span the dog learns to respond to the trainer’s command.  It should be kept in mind that each dog learns in its own pace.  The training session too needs to be shorter while dog training.  Although the dog is trained to obey, both the trainer and dog should enjoy the sessions.

The treats used while dog training mainly depends on the owner’s preference and varies a lot from trainer to trainer.  While dog training the important things to be had in mind is the dog treat chosen should be given in smaller portions.  It is not advisable to give the dog a whole dog bone or similar treat every time it follows the common of the trainer.  When the treat is given in large portions, the dog fells full and loses interest in dog training; it also makes the dog lazy.  It also increases the weight of the dog and in the future might get into health related problems too.  It should also be taken care that the treat given while dog training should be different from the every food, so that it feels like getting a special treat for a well done job.  A good quality of any brand is recommended.