Control with kindness

All animals, people and furred, feathered or finned, work best on positive reinforcement.   When I first attended a class on dog training, years ago, I was schooled in the old "pull and jerk"  method.    That method is when one takes a dog, who has not been taught what command you are trying to achieve, has a choke or pinch collar put around their neck, and is lead then jerked when each command is given.   Being young and eager to learn, I thought this was a working method.   As time went by I soon saw how unfair it was and how many problems it created.
We must realize our dogs do not speak our language.  Be it English, German, or another we have to show the dog what we are saying.   People often believe that a dog can only learn the proper words for a "trick"  or command.   Trial and error has shown this to be untrue.   As an example, if you are trying to get your dog to sit... there is no need to use the English word "sit".    You can use any language you wish and any word you wish.   We only use "sit",  as a place keeper, because it would be difficult to recall if you were saying "mashed potatoes"  as your command.  But be the verbal command to the dog "sit" , "sitz"  (German), or "mashed potatoes"  they all can represent the dog placing its rear end on the ground.
First, a teacher must teach, or show, the student what they desire.   Gentle hands on your pet will help them into the sit position.  If you prefer, tiny training treats can be used to maneuver the animal to the correct position.    Each dog is an individual and must be treated as such in order to reap the most benefits with commands.  I like to "catch"  a behavior that my pet is doing and reward it.   This means, once you have a re pour, watching closely until your pet does a desired behavior.   The dog sits on his own, you lavish praise or treats, petting, love upon them along with saying something like "good sit"  or "yes sit".    You are using the same word all the time so the animal is not confused.   "Good"  or "yes"  are place holders for your praise.   Pick a word that means the dog has done well and stick with it.
Most of my training occurs at home, off leash, not worrying about a collar.   This method is great for abused animals who fear human contact.   Using training treats of any kind, and leading a dog into a position is also one of my favorites.  Either way your pet learns.  You have not taught the "sit" , for the dog always knew how to sit.  What you are teaching is the English, German, or other language to your dog.   By showing your pet how to communicate with you, a whole new window has been opened.   A way to get across your desire for you pup to follow your commands.   This brings trust into your relationship and boosts the dogs self esteem.   


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