Small Dog Training Techniques
Dogs of every size have been trained using the reward training technique, with it being one of the most effective ways to train small dogs. Pomeranian dogs, poodles, and chihuahuas are dogs that are too small to respond to the more insensitive training methods, like the utilization of a choke collar, though they will respond positively to reward based dog training techniques.
Reward training is used for many purposes. Along with police and military work, this training teaches dogs to perform all kinds of actions and is even used to train dogs for films and advertisements. And, of course, it works just as well on your pet for basic obedience.
Reward training simply means a treat for your dog after a job well done. Treats may mean many things for your dog, may it be food or just a few pats on the head and an enthusiastic “good boy”.
You can train your dog to do nearly anything with reward based dog training techniques. In order to succeed with this training method, you just need to use a specific group of tactics to get your pet to do what you want him to do and then reward him right after he does what you want.
For example, dangling the treat over your dog’s head and moving it backwards, repeating the word “sit” over and over, until he naturally sits on his own will teach the dog to sit. After he sits, give him the treat and praise him. It won’t take long before he knows to sit down and he will be rewarded when he hears the word “sit.”
If you want to train your dog without the use of voice commands, then you can take advantage of the reward training method known as clicker training. With this method, a clicker is used (usually along with hand signals) to communicate the desired task to the dog. Just like with a voice command, once the dog performs the task he is rewarded with the treat. Over time, the clicker is all that will be necessary for the dog to respond.
You can teach your dog new tricks with decoy training. This is when you get the dog to perform the task naturally on his own (such as with the “sit” example used earlier). Once he has completed the trick, remember to reward him. This technique, widely used in the entertainment industry, does not require a trainer handler.
Using dog training techniques that are rewards based can be a great way to train and bond with your small dog without having to resort to harsh actions that can injure your pet. This way you can be assured that your training time will be enjoyable for both you and your pet.
