3 Types of Obedience Training for Dogs

Dogs are social creatures with instinctual behaviors that are normal for the species. Obedience training for dogs is often necessary to curb a dog's natural tendencies to disturb your neighbors, your home or your family and acclimate the dog to your normal routines. In order to prevent inappropriate chewing, barking, jumping and biting, several points are necessary when training a dog, and there are a number of different ways to effectively go about completing this mission. With proper obedience training, it should never be necessary to hit, spank or otherwise put your hands on your dog. Simple voice commands and positive reinforcement have been shown to be extremely effective, no matter the age or breed of dog.

1. Puppy Obedience Training

Obedience training for dogs should begin in the puppy stage, if possible. If training is implemented properly when a dog is 3 to 6 months old, standard commands will be in place and the puppy will grow up into a sociable, friendly and well-behaved adult dog. Puppy training generally includes standard lessons that teach normal commands such as come, heel, sit, stay and off. These will teach the puppy how to properly maneuver when inside, outside and in social situations. Puppies will also need to learn house-training to prevent unwanted messes in your home. Equally important, when puppies go through the teething stage, it is necessary for them to chew to help strengthen teeth and alleviate the pain of teething. Proper training and rewards with appropriate chew toys can help to prevent the puppy from choosing your furniture, shoes or other household items to chew on and destroy. Socialization, grooming and proper nutrition may also be included in puppy obedience training classes.

2. Adult Dog Obedience Training

Obedience training for dogs that are older than six months of age may include lessons involving any of the standard commands such as with basic puppy training, but may also offer additional training for dogs with aggressive tendencies, social problems or another specific problem area. Adult dog training that goes beyond the basic methods may require more advanced techniques and you should always opt to be involved and present for the lessons, so the dog learns to trust and obey you as the owner. The age of the dog does not matter if proper handling and technique is implemented. Short and simple commands, positive rewards and consistency remain crucial points in the combination of most effective methods for any dog obedience course.

3. Specialized Dog Classes

In addition to regular obedience training for dogs, there are also many specialized courses available to train dogs involved in certain professions or events. Police, rescue and detection dogs will likely require a passing grade in basic obedience training and will then move on to more advanced courses specific to the profession involved. This is also true of dogs involved with assistance with the elderly, disabled or youth activities. Event training may include specialization for AKC or other dog show entries or courses designed to teach certain tricks and behaviors for the purpose of entertainment.