Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Training and Corrections

Training
This refers to the process of teaching a dog to perform certain actions in response to certain commands which the dog is trained to understand. It is a general term which does not, by itself, describe what or how the dog is taught. There are many methods and objectives of training. Dogs may be trained to:
  • follow obedience commands (part of obedience training)
  • perform tricks casually or for circus acts
  • be a guide dog to lead the blind
  • be a rescue dog to find victims of a disaster
  • be a hunting dog to aid in hunting
  • aid in herding, tracking, coursing, and retrieving
  • follow agility commands
  • serve as a guard animal
Basic Concept
Most dogs, no matter what their eventual advanced training or intended purpose, live with people who want them to behave in a way that make them pleasant to be around, keep them safe, and provide for the safety of other people and pets. Dogs do not figure out basic obedience on their own; they must be trained.

Dogs as Pack Animals
As pack animals, dogs have natural instincts that favor cooperation with their fellow dogs. Many domestic dogs, either through instinct or breeding, can correctly interpret and respond to signals given by a human handler.

Dogs can be followers or leaders. The owner or handler must act as the leader of the pack, projecting positive energy and confidence.

Basic Pet Obedience Training
This usually consists of (6) six behaviors:
  • Sit
  • Down
  • Stay
  • Recall ("come", "here" or "in")
  • Close (or loose-leash walking)
  • Heel


Communicating
The hardest part of training is communicating with the dog in a humane way that he understands. However, the underlying principle of all communication is simple: reward desired behavior while ignoring or correcting undesired behavior.

Corrections
Corrections should never include harmful physical force or violence. Using force while training is controversial and should not be taken lightly, because even if it ends the behavior, when applied inappropriately with some dogs it may lead to a loss of drive (enthusiasm for the given task), stress, and in some cases even aggression. A handler may decide to use force, however, the standard used by most trainers is the minimum amount necessary to inhibit the unwanted behavior.

A simple nudge, poke or a firm "shhh" are included in corrections.

Source: Wikipedia

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Crazy Talk

"Joaqui!

Joaqui? Why are you hiding? Did you do something bad?

Ah okay, so you're just looking for your toy ball."

He loves tennis balls.

"Then why are you all dressed up? Are you going somewhere?

Ah okay, so you'll be playing ball with your friends.

Be back before dinner time.

Have fun then."

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Lazy Dog

Aha! Joaqui!

Look at this dog, lying on the sofa, watching TV. Is this all you do the whole day? Lie on the couch and have the tube open while you doze around?

Look at all those clutter around you? Shoes, socks, bag, laptop, books, guitar! Can't you tidy the living room? Hmmp.

Hahah, so fun to play make-believe with the doggie. Dogs are really a man's best friend. They stick with you even during your crazy moments.