Dog Training Questions | Pup Pups

The 5 golden rules of dog training emphasize building a positive bond through Consistency, using Positive Reinforcement, keeping sessions Short & Fun, practicing Patience & Timing, and avoiding harsh Punishment, all while starting early to establish good habits and clear communication. These rules focus on rewarding desired actions and creating enjoyable, clear learning experiences, which leads to a well-behaved and happy dog 

The 7 essential dog training commands typically taught for good behaviour and safety are Sit, Down, Stay, Come, Heel, Off (or No), and Leave It, forming a foundation for communication and control in various situations, from basic manners to emergency recalls 

 The "3-second rule" for dogs is a guideline for brief, positive interactions, suggesting initial greetings last about three seconds to gauge comfort, preventing overstimulation or conflict, and can also apply to training for quick command response or limiting attention to build confidence, acting as a quick check-in before moving on or escalating. It's a short, controlled sniff/greeting, then a recall to see if the dog wants a second, longer interaction, building confidence for nervous dogs by giving them control.   

The hardest dog command to teach is often considered the "Finish" command (dog circles back to heel position) or reliable "Come" (recall) due to high distractions and instinct, followed closely by loose-leash walking (Heel), all requiring significant impulse control and focus against natural drives to wander or chase,  

One of the most common mistakes people make when training their dogs is inconsistency. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations. If you're inconsistent with your commands, boundaries, and rewards, your dog will become confused and may exhibit undesirable behaviors. 

 Not paying attention to their behaviour & body language. Letting a dog sniff a dog who is in a crate. Dropping off a dog for a visit in another dog's garden or home. Having loads of dog toys, bones, or food bowls all over the home.

There is no legal requirement around how long you can leave a dog alone, however, it's generally advised to leave a dog for no more than 6-8 hours by themselves. You are legally expected to provide for your dog's needs and be responsible for their welfare. 

Common dog training mistakes include repeating commands, otherwise known as 'command nagging', getting frustrated with your pooch, creating negative associations, failing to practice after training class and useless repetition, expecting a different result. . 

 When dogs experience anxiety, music or white noise can help calm them down. This provides a soothing and calming environment, and it can naturally reduce their stress and anxiety levels. White noise or music can also drown out the unpredictable noises from thunderstorms or fireworks that trigger anxiety.