The Do’s and Don’ts of Dog Training

Yes, dog training is based on common sense. However, you do need to keep in mind a few specific
guidelines — the do’s and don’ts — to make sure that you’re successful and fostering a healthy
relationship with your dog. The following sections are here to help get you started.

Do’s

 Do be nice to your dog every time he comes to you (even if he’s just coming back from an
unexpected romp around the neighborhood).
 Do use your dog’s name to get his attention and then tell him what you want him to do.
 Do use a normal tone of voice when you give a command. Being loud doesn’t help him
understand.
 Do be consistent in your actions and expectations.
 Do provide an outlet for your dog’s energies.
 Do keep your dog mentally stimulated by training him.

Don’ts

 Don’t do anything your dog perceives as unpleasant when he comes to you.

 Don’t nag your dog by repeating commands; nagging teaches him to ignore you.
 Don’t use your dog’s name and then expect him to read your mind as to what you want.
 Don’t expect your dog to know what the word “no” means.
 Don’t yell at your dog. He’s not deaf. Raising your voice doesn’t improve his understanding.
 Don’t confuse your dog with unrealistic expectations.
 Don’t try to suppress behaviors that need an outlet.