Dog Training and Agility

Dog training is the process of behavior analysis that applies the social context of antecedent and result-oriented behavioral patterns to change the dog’s basic behavior, either to help it take on specific human-pleasure tasks or undertake certain activities, or for it to perform effectively in modern domestic life. It may be based on structured social interaction and reinforcement by a person or a group of people, or it may be an unstructured, instinctive, or training process based on the dog’s natural tendency to respond to directional signals. Training a dog has many facets and goals, including the development of a physically fit and emotionally stable dog that is well-behaved and can be trusted with other people. It aims at enabling the dog to function successfully within a group of people and also to develop and fit into its new environment (especially the home environment).

In most dog training books and on the Internet you will find a picture or video clip of a dog performing a task such as pulling your car, barking at the mailman, or waiting at the door for you. The dog accomplishes these tasks because it is being guided, usually by its owner, by verbal commands such as “stay”, “come”, or “down”. These commands are followed by the pet hand signals i.e., pawing and clicking of paws, head nod, raised eyebrows, and facial expressions indicating readiness to perform or confirm the desired action.

Some people are against using force in dog training, and claim that the techniques are cruel and aggressive. However, there is no scientific evidence that reinforces positive reinforcement have any effect on behavior of animals other than to create greater pleasure in their owners. In fact, the best way to reinforce behavior is through rewarding the dog with treats (goodies) and petting. Positive reinforcement works better when it is given to a dog by its owner rather than giving it a command. This gives the dog greater pleasure and reinforces the desired behavior more quickly.

Dogs love to please their owners, and good dog training makes this easier. If you ignore unwanted behaviors it will persist. Dogs also respond positively to positive reinforcements given in the form of treats. These dogs are easier to train and have fewer behavioral issues.

Many dog trainers emphasize obedience and teaching proper behavior at an early age. If the training is done correctly then the dog will learn the commands easily and with fewer issues. Teaching your dog to correct behaviors is the best way to stop undesirable behaviors such as jumping up on visitors, barking when left alone, digging holes, whining, biting, and digging in the house. By getting your puppy, kitten, or adult dog trained at an early age, your pet will have a better temperament and be better behaved.

A common issue that arises is that some dogs may need to be taught obedience as well as agility training. The type of training they need will depend on the breed of dog and how well they’ve been trained. Some breeds can learn agility and some may need to be taught obedience. A good rule of thumb is that if your dog can be trained without breaking its own rules, then they probably won’t need any other training.