Training your dog is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. There are numerous benefits to a well-trained dog including strengthening the bond between pet parents and their dog, promoting good behaviors and improving your dog’s overall health and happiness.
In honor of National Pet Month, here are some things pet parents should keep in mind when it comes to training their dogs:
Benefits of dog training
Proper dog training has many benefits for both pets and their owners. Dogs enjoy being trained as it provides mental and physical stimulation, which is critically important for more active breeds. Training also leads to improved socialization skills in dogs, allowing them to safely interact and play with other pets and people. For pet parents, training can help reduce unwanted behaviors such as chewing, biting or excessive barking. A well-trained pet is also a safer pet as they will be well accustomed to familiar commands and more likely to immediately respond in a hazardous situation.
Choosing the right training program for your pet
When considering a dog training program, it is important to keep your dog’s age, breed, temperament and training goals in mind. Some dogs may need more focused training than others. Pet Paradise offers a board-and-train experience that provides the repetition and consistency that dogs need to make their training stick while also being in an environment with few distractions. This option is ideal for busy pet parents looking for a well-behaved dog.
Supporting your pet’s training at home
It is essential to a pet’s training that pet parents continue to reinforce the lessons and behaviors their pet is learning through their training sessions. Pet parents should be consistent with the commands and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviors their pet presents.
Training your dog has physical, mental and emotional health benefits. Well-trained dogs obey commands and listen to their owners, can properly socialize with other pets and have a greater bond with their owners, leading to greater happiness for both pets and their parents.
Dr. Lauren Pastewka is chief veterinary officer of NewDay Veterinary Care at Pet Paradise. Pet Paradise is a comprehensive pet health care provider of overnight boarding, resort-style day camp, professional grooming, dog training and NewDay Veterinary Care. Pastewka leads 30 NewDay Veterinary Care clinics and teams located in Pet Paradise resorts nationwide. For more information, go to petparadise.com.
