Tag: Dog Training

This week’s installment of BestBullySticks’ Training Tips is the first half of a two part series on Training Methods. As pet lovers, it’s our hope that this information will help owners make more informed decisions about how to train their pets. Let’s get to it!

Selecting a Method

Unfortunately, there is no universal “one size fits all” training system for dogs. Choosing the best training method for you and your dog takes a bit of research. Don’t sweat it, though. We’ve cut through the thick of it to bring you the skinny on what’s what in the world of dog training.

If you haven’t already, BestBullySticks recommends reading our previous post on How Dogs Learn to ensure you get the most from our explanation of these training methods and their key concepts. At the end of the day, the most important factor to consider when selecting a training method is how comfortable both dog and owner are using a system.

Despite the large number of training systems out there, in one way or another many utilize the same three key concepts.

“Marker Training”

Built on the ideas of classical and operant conditioning, Marker Training is a way to build association between a command (marker) and a desired result by immediately offering reinforcement the moment a desired action is completed. For example — if you’re teaching a dog to lay down on command, use the marker (in this case the words “lay down”) when the dog lays down on its own, then offer positive reinforcement such as a treat. Read more

Basic canine learning methods can be broken down into four distinct categories. While some have similarities and others great differences, they are all of great value and offer insight into how your dog thinks. Quite a few of these psychological theories are recent developments, many of which came about in the mid-20th century. To learn more about the fascinating history behind these theories, BestBullySticks suggests you check out last week's post — A History of Dog Training.

Classical Conditioning: Just like the training methods of yesteryear, classical conditioning plays upon the same ideas used by Pavlov and Bailey. In its most basic form, this method of learning is based around the idea that a stimulus received over time will eventually become associated with another yet totally unrelated response.

For instance, a dog may be afraid of rain because of an association with thunderstorms. The same logic applies for when you get your dog riled up by looking their way and asking, “Walk?”

Over time, these associations can wear out if the motivating reward — such as a real walk! — is removed. Classical conditioning might also help build new associations as demonstrated by Bailey’s clicker method as well as overcome negative associations helping animals cope with new people and situations. Read more

Beginning today, BestBullySticks.com is starting a new blog series! Titled “Training Tips” this section will discuss a range of topics including training methods from popular trainers and dog experts to information about dog cognition and learning. So, strap yourself in for a brief history lesson! Our first installment is A History of Dog Training! By tracing the history of human-dog companionship and discussing different ways dogs learn, BestBullySticks hopes to provide new tools to help you and your loved one get the most from each other’s company.

Canine Domestication and Early Training

Dog training began with the domestication of canines. Approximately 30,000 years ago, humans began to domesticate dogs. Originally used as a beasts of burden and guard animals, the human-canine dynamic would eventually develop into a mutually beneficial relationship we still see today. And while dogs have accompanied humans on nearly every journey since the beginning of our relationship, it wouldn't be until the early 20th century that dog training took it’s current form. Read more

Yes, your dog is cute. But how cool would it be to give your dog a high-five?! “Good Boy, Fido!” followed by a head pat can quickly become “Good Boy, Fido! High-Five” followed by interspecies coolness. What’s more awesome than that?

BestBullySticks.com knows once your dog has mastered standard training commands, a few tricks in your dog’s training scholarship and your dog will not only be the cutest and best behaved at the dog park, but the most talented as well! Plus, we thought it would be fun to send off National Train Your Dog Month with a little something extra.

Teaching the High-Five Trick

Need: Training Treats, Training Treat Pouch & a Clicker

If you’re not familiar with clicker training, read up on it here. Also, your dog must have the “sit” command mastered before teaching this trick.

Step 1
Have your dog sit in front of you. Place a desirable treat in your hand and make a fist. Let your dog sniff your hand to let them know the treat is there. Move the hand with the hidden treat above your dog’s head, just out of reach. Have the clicker ready in your other hand. Read more

January is National Train Your Dog Month and one way to have the best-behaved dog on the block is to find a great dog trainer! BestBullySticks.com is here to give you some tips and tricks to find the best trainer out there.  

Referrals
Don’t be overwhelmed by the number of dog trainers you find in the phone book or online. Go to happy customers that you know will give you an honest opinion: your friends and family. Even ask your favorite animal shelter or vet whom they would recommend.

Qualifications & References
It’s obviously important that your dog trainer be experienced and competent. Most likely a trainer will have multiple sets of initials after their name. But what do they even mean? A quick check on Association of Pet Dog Trainers can tell you the trainer’s qualifications by the initials after their name. Since there is no required certification or licensing for a dog trainer, it’s even more important to know what formal knowledge a dog trainer possesses. Also directly ask the trainer how long they’ve been training and ask for references. Any legitimate dog trainer will have no issue putting you in touch with their past clients. You can also double check if a trainer is truly a part of a professional organization by checking the entity’s website.

Methods
Not all trainers will use the same methods to train your four-legged best friend. Research Dominance, Positive, Balanced and Specialized training methods and know which method your trainer could use. If you’re ever uncomfortable with a trainer’s method, find another trainer. Every trainer is different and so is every dog. Read more