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	<title>Dog Owners Resource Site &#187; Training &amp; Socialization</title>
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	<description>Dog Obedience Training &#38; Dog Health Illness Symptoms - Read dog obedience training tips, dog health illnesses symptoms, book reviews, how to fix dog behavior problems, interesting dog articles and free eNewsletter.</description>
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		<title>Basic Training Rules for all Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/basic-training-rules-for-all-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/basic-training-rules-for-all-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 07 Aug 2010 18:51:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>author</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Becoming a Dog Owner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Exercise Your Dog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rules]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[well being]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=954</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Training a dog can be a frustrating and hectic routine. But is certain rules are followed it can become enjoyable with quick affective results. Below are the basic rules of dog training:
-          Be consistent: consistency is the key to effective training. If you want your dog to understand your command and learn them, you should [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Training-Dog4.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-955" style="margin: 15px;" title="Training-Dog4" src="http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Training-Dog4-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>Training a dog can be a frustrating and hectic routine. But is certain rules are followed it can become enjoyable with quick affective results. Below are the basic rules of dog training:</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Be consistent</span></strong>: consistency is the key to effective training. If you want your dog to understand your command and learn them, you should use always the exact same words or gestures, associated to a certain command. Any changes would confuse the dog or may lead to misinterpretation of your command.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Be calm and in control</span></strong>:  it is required that a trainer remain calm and patient. Interact with the dog in a calming way, not to make thing tense. Try to find a location that is also not too noisy or distracting. You and your dog should have calm time together.</p>
<p>-          Also a trainer must not lose control. Training a dog can be very tiring, and sometime seemingly fruitless, but losing control and giving up just makes things worse.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Start with simple commands</span></strong>: The simpler, the better. If a trainer starts with complex command, it is likely that dogs won’t obey. Start with simple things like sit, stand, go etc, as the dog masters these, move on to other commands.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">One at a time</span></strong>: It is much easier for a dog to learn a command one at a time. Too much training would over burden a dog. Teach him one thing at a time with full concentration.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Don’t take too long</span></strong>: The training period shouldn’t be too long. The trainer as well as the dog would get tired and there won’t be any good results.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Make daily training secessions</span></strong>: Instead of intense long hour sessions, daily half hour or one hour training sessions would be good enough for a young dog. It will not only be less tiring but also boost the concentration level.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Keep the voice cheerful</span></strong>: A trainer should always speak in a cheerful voice rather than speaking harshly or aggressively. Dogs tend to respond happily to cheerful and humorous people.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Give a positive response</span></strong>: Every learned step towards practicing a trick or command should be followed by appositive response. Give a dog a treat, if he shows good results. But don’t be over praising before he has really learned something.</p>
<p>-          <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">No punishment</span></strong>: Some dog trainers find punishment a better way to teach commands, but this is entirely wrong. Apart from being a cruel act, it is not at all appropriate for training, as it reinforces negative behavior more than positive behavior.</p>
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		<title>Learn the Signs of an Overwhelmed Puppy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/learn-the-signs-of-an-overwhelmed-puppy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/learn-the-signs-of-an-overwhelmed-puppy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2009 19:43:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Socializing Your Dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=589</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As the owner of a new puppy, it is important to begin training early in your puppy&#8217;s life. The earlier you begin training and socialization, the more well-rounded and adjusted your puppy will be as a full grown dog. Socialization entails introducing your puppy to a number of different situations. Through these introductions, your puppy [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/pug_puppy.jpg"></a>As the owner of a new puppy, it is important to begin training early in your puppy&#8217;s life. The earlier you begin training and socialization, the more well-rounded and adjusted your puppy will be as a full grown dog. Socialization entails introducing your puppy to a number of different situations. Through these introductions, your puppy becomes acclimated to change and learns to accept and adapt to different people, places, and things. However you do not want to overwhelm your puppy with the socialization. Adding too much stress to your puppy&#8217;s life can actually set the training back, leaving your puppy feeling un-well, and worse off than before the socialization efforts.</p>
<p>Begin any socialization endeavors slowly to ensure the best experience for you and your puppy. Additionally, watch the situation closely to avoid allowing your dog to feel overwhelmed in any situation. Learn his individual signs of stress, and watch for them closely in any situation.</p>
<p>Some of the signs of an overwhelmed dog are rather subtle. Your puppy might begin panting, even if it seems as though its not warm outdoors. Other dogs may begin yawning repeatedly. These are similar to nervous ticks, and may vary from dog to dog. However they are often signs of anxiety.</p>
<p>Other dogs are more expressive in their behaviors. They may become hyperactive, running around or barking excessively. Just as some people become flighty or overly animated when anxious, many puppies also act in a similar way. And yet other dogs become withdrawn, as though they are trying to hide from the situation.</p>
<p>Whenever you notice the beginnings of these signs, it is important to remove your puppy from the situation. Quietly take him home, or to a secure space, and comfort him. Give him fresh water so he can cleanse his body and mind. Praise him for his good behavior, and call it a day. After socialization, he deserves rest and reward.</p>
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		<title>Rewards for Dog Training</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/rewards-for-dog-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/rewards-for-dog-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 02:23:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=554</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you look into most dog training, they always tell owners and handlers to reward their dogs for a job well done. However few schools of training specify a certain reward. Most of the time, the reward should be chosen based on the dog&#8217;s individual personality and preferences.
For many dogs, a simple yet kind verbal [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you look into most dog training, they always tell owners and handlers to reward their dogs for a job well done. However few schools of training specify a certain reward. Most of the time, the reward should be chosen based on the dog&#8217;s individual personality and preferences.</p>
<p>For many dogs, a simple yet kind verbal reward does the trick. They thrive on a smile and kind work from their owner, willing to go back to work to receive further praise. If you have a generally great relationship with your dog, the verbal reward should mean a great deal to your dog. Keep the tone upbeat and positive. You may even want to adopt a phrase like &#8220;good!&#8221; Even better, you can combine the verbal reward with a physical reward, like a pat or scratch. Most dogs relish any opportunity to receive praise and pats from their owner. Make it a habit to always reward your dog verbally, and with a pat, even when supplementing the training with other types of rewards.</p>
<p>Some dog owners and trainers find that dog toys make great rewards. If your dog is of the enthusiastic and playful nature, consider throwing his favorite ball as a reward. Toys provide a great opportunity to supplement training with playtime. Dogs are often more willing to cooperate, interact, and respond, when they are having fun. Keep training light hearted by incorporating your dog&#8217;s favorite toys as rewards.</p>
<p>The tried and true method of reward lies in the edible treat. Dogs love, love, love just about any sort of food, especially if it is hand fed to them. Some dogs may even enjoy simple pieces of their regular food hand fed as rewards. You may want to purchase healthy dog treats for the purpose of training. Even scraps of human food like cheese and meat make acceptable treats. When using food as treats, remember to use it in moderation, or you will end up with an overweight dog!</p>
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		<title>Keep Your Dog from Jumping</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/keep-your-dog-from-jumping/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/keep-your-dog-from-jumping/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2009 02:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Behavior Problems]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=538</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many dogs develop the very bad habit of jumping up on their owner. Often times, the behavior begins when the dog is just a puppy. Puppy jumps are much more forgivable than grown dog jumps, so the jumping is often encouraged in puppy-hood. However, the puppies eventually grow into adult dogs, and at that point [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many dogs develop the very bad habit of jumping up on their owner. Often times, the behavior begins when the dog is just a puppy. Puppy jumps are much more forgivable than grown dog jumps, so the jumping is often encouraged in puppy-hood. However, the puppies eventually grow into adult dogs, and at that point have fully developed the habit of jumping. It is important to break your puppy&#8217;s jumping habit right from the start to have a well behaved adult dog.</p>
<p>Many people find it best to keep their arrivals anti-climatic in order to calm their dog&#8217;s jumping urges. When you arrive home, enter your home quietly and even ignore your dog until he settles down. This can be very difficult for many dog owners who want nothing more than to spend time with their loyal pet upon arriving home after a long day of work. However sometimes it may be necessary in order to alter your dog&#8217;s undesirable behaviors. Remember that once your dog calms down, you can return to playing with your dog, and giving him pats. It is just to take the excitement, and thus the jumping, out of your arrival that you are going for.</p>
<p>Even if you cannot bring yourself to ignore your dog when you first arrive home, you can discourage his jumping in other ways. You can make it a habit to bend down to pet him so that he does not feel the need to jump up on you. When he does not jump, be sure to reward him with praise and even treats. Tell you dog to sit to get him to avoid jumping on you. And when he does jump, do not try to punish him as he is only looking for more attention. Punishment may send mixed signals and confuse your dog. Instead, simply ignore him completely until he calms down. However, when he does not jump, be sure to reward so that it is clear in his mind: staying down equals reward and jumping gets him nothing.</p>
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		<title>Acquainting Your Dog with Cats</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/acquainting-your-dog-with-cats/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/acquainting-your-dog-with-cats/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2009 02:30:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=536</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For many pet owners, a house full of animals is a dream come true. However, many pets have other ideas. It is a well known fact that many cats and dogs do not necessarily get along as friends. Though they may fight in the beginning, or even all through their lives together, it is possible [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For many pet owners, a house full of animals is a dream come true. However, many pets have other ideas. It is a well known fact that many cats and dogs do not necessarily get along as friends. Though they may fight in the beginning, or even all through their lives together, it is possible to have cats and dogs living under the same roof. As a dog owner, the key to success is teaching your dog to respect your cat and his personal boundaries.</p>
<p>Whenever you are introducing a cat and dog, keep the dog on a leash. Make sure that you cat has ample opportunity to run for cover in case things become uncomfortable or even threatening. Keep your dog on the leash as you hang out in the same room as the cat. This will allow your dog to become used to your cat&#8217;s presence, and your cat can become more comfortable around your dog, yet neither will harm the other.</p>
<p>Once you introduce your dog to a cat, be sure to supervise the interactions. If your dog becomes aggressive or threatening, firmly tell him to &#8220;quit&#8221; or &#8220;stop.&#8221; However also make it a priority to reward your dog for positive behavior, like outright ignoring the cat, or interacting gently with it.</p>
<p>It is always best to be sure that your dog understands basic obedience training in order to control situations between your dog and cat. If the situation should start to get out of hand, you will need to be sure that you can get your dog under control in order to protect your cat. Never leave a dog and a cat unsupervised in an enclosed area together unless you are extremely confidant in their abilities to get along with each other. Remember, it takes time to build any sort of relationship, but eventually dogs and cats can learn to co-exist.</p>
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		<title>Puppy Kindergarten</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/puppy-kindergarten/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/puppy-kindergarten/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:56:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Puppies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=514</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Puppy kindergarten serves many purposes for both you and your young dog. It is easy to see why these classes continue to grow in popularity. If you would like to make your life easier, and help your puppy potentially grow into a better adult dog, consider enrolling in a reputable puppy kindergarten class near you.
Puppies [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Puppy kindergarten serves many purposes for both you and your young dog. It is easy to see why these classes continue to grow in popularity. If you would like to make your life easier, and help your puppy potentially grow into a better adult dog, consider enrolling in a reputable puppy kindergarten class near you.</p>
<p>Puppies usually enroll in the classes before they are six months of age. After they are six months old, they have many if not all of their adult teeth, and may be too large and strong for the other puppies. If you are interested in a puppy kindergarten class, be sure to make it a priority before your puppy out-grows the class.</p>
<p>As an owner, the classes offer great benefits. They offer hands-on advice with a professional dog trainer, which can be invaluable when dealing with arambunctious puppy. They also offer a chance to socialize with other puppy owners. Together, your class can support and encourage each other through the ups and downs of raising a puppy. Additionally, the provide an opportunity to build a greater bond with your new dog, that will continue to grow as the years pass by.</p>
<p>But you are not the only one to benefit from puppy kindergarten. Your puppy also benefits from the class. He or she gets the opportunity to socialize with otherpuppies , which instills essential social skills as well as important mental and physical stimulation. In addition, your puppy also gains a greater understanding of what is to be expected from him. A trainer can approach a situation with a clear and open mind, perhaps communicating a command better, so that your puppy begins to comprehend things easier. And of course, your puppy enjoys spending the time with you, his owner and best friend.</p>
<p>Talk to your veterinarian or dog-owning friends for recommendations of puppy kindergarten classes in your area. You want to choose a reputable trainer and establishment, and avoid all trainers who use physical force to train their dogs. And remember to have fun, and do your homework because the more you can put into a puppy kindergarten class, the more you can get out of it!</p>
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		<title>Teaching Bite Inhibition</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/teaching-bite-inhibition/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/teaching-bite-inhibition/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:25:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Puppies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=508</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Bite inhibition is an important part of dog training. It lets your dog know that he cannot clamp down on any of your body parts with his mouth, because he is powerful and do serious damage. Additionally, it is a proper part of socialization to get him ready for playing with other dogs without causing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Bite inhibition is an important part of dog training. It lets your dog know that he cannot clamp down on any of your body parts with his mouth, because he is powerful and do serious damage. Additionally, it is a proper part of socialization to get him ready for playing with other dogs without causing them pain. Truthfully, some of the more gentle dog breeds like Labradors learn this act almost instinctively. However, many dogs do need the training.</p>
<p>You should begin the bite inhibition training when your dog is around three months old, right before the adult teeth begin to come in. The training happens in three stages. First you stop your dog when he bites you too hard. Next you stop your dog when he comes into contact with your body with his teeth. And lastly, you prevent your dog from putting your body in his mouth at all. Again, many of the more easy going dogs will only need to learn the first step. Remember that bite inhibition is a natural thing, taught my the mother and litter mates. However, a human-raised dog needs its owner or a trainer to teach him right from wrong.</p>
<p>First and foremost, you must make it clear to your dog that the bite causes you pain. That is what his mother or other dogs would do in the situation, and that is what he understands. Some people let out a yelp, while others exclaim &#8220;ouch.&#8221; Do what works best for you, but be sure you are getting your dog&#8217;s attention. However, do not startle him to the point that he becomes defensive. And never, ever get physical. You know your dog&#8217;s personality, so make your reaction appropriate.</p>
<p>Once you send the signal that it hurts you, end the playtime or interaction. The two signals together, the cry of pain and the end of the attention, will quickly teach your dog that he cannot bite you. He really wants your love and attention more than anything, so he will behave appropriately in order to receive it.</p>
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		<title>Prevent Your Dog From Lifting His Leg in the House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/prevent-your-dog-from-lifting-his-leg-in-the-house/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/prevent-your-dog-from-lifting-his-leg-in-the-house/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Mar 2009 11:48:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Behavior Problems]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=492</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As wild animals, territory is very important to many species. The same territorial instincts remains in most dogs. While the territorial behavior can result in an excellent guard dog, sometimes the behavior becomes excessive and unacceptable. One way in which many male dogs mark their territory is lifting their leg and literally marking their spot. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As wild animals, territory is very important to many species. The same territorial instincts remains in most dogs. While the territorial behavior can result in an excellent guard dog, sometimes the behavior becomes excessive and unacceptable. One way in which many male dogs mark their territory is lifting their leg and literally marking their spot. Unfortunately, this behavior can ruin one&#8217;s home and create unpleasant living conditions.</p>
<p>The first way to eliminate the marking of the home is to neuter your male dog. Once neutered, the instincts to designate his territory will be weakened. If you have no plans to breed your dog, neutering is always the best decision anyway. In addition to decreasing your dog&#8217;s urge to mark territory, you may also notice a decrease in aggressive behaviors, and prevent reproductive system related health problems in the future.</p>
<p>Even with neutering your dog, he may begin to mark his territory out of habit. When dogs smell urine in an area, in their minds they think that the area is meant to be used as a bathroom. As long as your dog can smell where he has marked his territory in the past, he will probably try to continue his actions. However, with cleaning and training, you can break your dog of his bad habit.</p>
<p>Be sure to thoroughly disinfect the area to remove as much of the scent as possible. There are products available that you can spray in your home to decrease your dog&#8217;s urge to lift his leg. Additionally, begin the housebreaking training from the basics again. Take your dog out on a regular schedule that compliments his eating schedule, and always offer a treat when he behaves appropriately. Try to keep your dog in a single area of the house when you are not home with him, to decrease his ability to mark areas around the entire house.</p>
<p>Lastly, consider enrolling in obedience training classes. These classes will stimulate your dog&#8217;s mind, and allow him to see you as the leader of the house. He will eliminate his need to mark territory, and become more trainable in all areas of his life.</p>
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		<title>Prepare Your Puppy for the Veterinarian</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/prepare-your-puppy-for-the-veterinarian/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/prepare-your-puppy-for-the-veterinarian/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:50:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Puppies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=468</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[New puppies are a great deal of fun and inspiration. Often times, puppies cause us to lose track of time as we consume ourselves with playtime, and getting to know our new pet. However, it is important to take time out of the playing and introductions to make a call to your veterinarian. Typically, it [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>New puppies are a great deal of fun and inspiration. Often times, puppies cause us to lose track of time as we consume ourselves with playtime, and getting to know our new pet. However, it is important to take time out of the playing and introductions to make a call to your veterinarian. Typically, it is advisable to visit your veterinarian with your new puppy within the first two days that you have him.</p>
<p>There are many reasons for taking your new puppy to the veterinarian as soon as possible. By acting quickly, your veterinarian can help you catch any health problems that your puppy may be struggling to overcome. Likewise, your veterinarian will be able to check the puppy for any parasites, and prescribe an effective treatment. Because puppies have not had the time to build up their defenses and immune system, they are very vulnerable to illness and infection. Your veterinarian can help you give your new companion a clean bill of health.</p>
<p>If your puppy does have an illness, or parasite problem, you will want to talk to his seller. While most new dog-owners will be hesitant to return their dog, remember that it is always a possibility if you immediately find something wrong with your puppy. It is important to let the seller know that something was wrong with his dog, so he can take care of any existing puppies.</p>
<p>Additionally, your veterinarian will be able to help you decide upon a diet for your new puppy. Each puppy has slightly different dietary needs, depending on breed, rate of growth, lifestyle, and more. Talk to your veterinarian to see which types of food, and what size portions, are best for your puppy.</p>
<p>Finally, a visit to your veterinarian provides excellent support for you and your new family member. Puppies can be difficult and trying at times, so it is always comforting to know you can call your veterinarian with any questions or problems. The sooner you make the initial introduction, the better able your veterinarian will be to help you with your new dog.</p>
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		<title>Teach Your Dog to Stay</title>
		<link>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/teach-your-dog-to-stay/</link>
		<comments>http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/teach-your-dog-to-stay/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:48:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Courtney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Basic Commands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training & Socialization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog training and socialization]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.dogsobediencetraining.com/?p=466</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Training your dog to perform tricks is not only fun, but it also helps to strengthen the bond you have with your canine friend. However, while it all may seem like fun and games, training your dog to respond to a variety of commands can help to keep him safe in potentially dangerous situations. Training [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Training your dog to perform tricks is not only fun, but it also helps to strengthen the bond you have with your canine friend. However, while it all may seem like fun and games, training your dog to respond to a variety of commands can help to keep him safe in potentially dangerous situations. Training also helps your dog to grow into adulthood smoothly, and to find his place within your family. Aside from sitting, teaching your dog to stay is one of the most popular and important tricks for your dog to learn.</p>
<p>Before you can teach your dog to stay, make sure he understands the command to sit. Your dog must also know a command to end the staying. Teaching him to come to you often works well. Without an end command, your dog will become confused and it will be more of a struggle to teach him to stay. Remember to keep training sessions to five minutes or so whenever you are starting a new command or trick.</p>
<p>Begin teaching your dog to stay by asking him to sit. Offer praise as soon as he sits. Next, open your hand, and stretch it out, as though you are a crossing guard directly traffic. Say the command, &#8220;Stay,&#8221; and as your dog remains in place, verbally praise him and offer a treat. If your dog does not respond as you like, remember to go back to the basics. Ask for the sit, and immediately offer praise. Command him to stay, and even if he stays for only a second, offer praise in that one second.</p>
<p>As your dog becomes more accustomed to the command, you can lengthen the amount of time that you ask for the behavior. Always remember to give the command to come to you when you are ready to let the trick end. If you experience difficulties, remember to go back to the beginning, starting with sit, and then stay, until your dog gets the hang of it.</p>
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