It’s a little intimidating to talk about dog training. There are so many men and women out there who are such good “dog whisperers”- I can’t hold a candle to them. But, I do know and use a few techniques that work for me…..
Touch- Good work is rewarded with a stroke down the side of the body or along the side of the head. Not excessive- just enough for the dog to know you are pleased. They love it! Watch momma-dog with her pups. Where does she lick them and touch them? Along the side of the face.
Voice- Tone and cadence are very important. Initially, all they hear is “blah, blah, Ace, blah, blah!”. But soon, they get the gist of what it is you want. They will respond to the praise- “Good, Boy!”, “Let’s Go, Buddy.”, “Look in there, buddy!”. They will also respond to “You short-tailed, spotted, snub-nosed, shaggy-eared mutt! Get away from that skunk!” when delivered with the proper tone!
Probably the most important technique for me is consistency and repetition. Make it the same every time and do it the same every time- and do it over and over.
One reason I enjoy my dogs so much is because all they want to do is please me. No other living creature can say that.
