The Importance of Training

One area that is frequently overlooked by pet caretakers/owners is training. While some cats can benefit from training to correct behavior problems, this article will focus on dogs as they compose the bulk of the pets most in need of training.  Unwanted Behaviors is the number one reason dogs are surrendered to shelters and euthanized in the U.S.  Most of these dogs were never given a chance to correct their problems. Either the person responsible for them didn’t try, or ineffective methods were used.  Most people tend to focus on avoiding the situation that led to the unwanted behavior. This insures it will continue and possibly worsen. For example, if the dog jumps up on people and the caretaker then locks the dog away whenever guests are in the home, the dog will never have the opportunity to encounter guests and learn the proper behavior.  The dog is then effectively ostracized by his “pack” for behavior that was likely encouraged when he/she was a puppy.

 There are many unwanted behaviors.  They include biting (which includes “mouthing”), jumping on people (especially children), elimination disorders, aggressive behaviors, unwanted barking, and countless others.  In many cases these behaviors are normal dog behaviors that are just unacceptable in human society.  Often, the dog has simply not been trained to behave correctly in one or more given situations.  He/she just doesn’t know how to react properly.  Just like leashes, dog dishes, vet visits and vaccines, training is an essential part of pet ownership that must be considered and budgeted for before getting the dog.  If you haven’t, consider it now.  It is the rare dog that doesn’t need any training to behave in a manner that is in accord with his or her human caretaker and society at large. A dog that behaves in an undesirable manner will stress and often break the bond the caretaker has with that dog. When that happens, the dog usually finds itself homeless, or the object of ire.  Having a dog that behaves appropriately all the time in any situation is the ideal here.  To achieve this takes time and commitment to training with a well qualified credentialed dog trainer.  Most of the time, the training sessions involve teaching the human how to control and relate to the dog as much as actual training of the dog.  Ask your veterinarian or other trusted animal professional about qualified professional trainers near you.