Free Dog Training Ideas

by Vanessa Knauf

Overview

Training your dog is an art, and you might have to try a few different techniques before you figure out which methods work best for you and your dog. Your dog might respond well to positive reinforcement, or a combination of rewards and leash corrections might be most effective.
Positive Reinforcement

Reward the behavior you like, and ignore the behavior you don't like. That is the mantra for the training school of positive reinforcement. When your puppy chews on his toy instead of your shoes, say, "good dog" and rub its ear affectionately. When your dog sits or lies down on command, give it a treat. If your dog jumps on you when you walk in the door, cross your arms over your chest and turn away from the dog. When it stops jumping, turn back to the dog and give it a treat. Your dog wants your attention, whether good or bad, so the best punishment is to deny your dog that attention. Your dog will learn that it only gets attention for good behaviors, and it will begin to stop the bad behaviors that don't incite a response.

Clicker Training

Clicker training also uses positive reinforcement, but it associates good behavior with the sharp metallic click of the clicker. This sound is more distinctive and consistent than saying, "good dog." When your dog does something you like, click your clicker, then give the dog a treat. Soon your dog will engage positive behaviors just to hear the sound of the clicker.
Leash Correction

The Monks of New Skete rely on leash corrections when training their German shepherds. This technique requires a special slip collar that fits snugly around around your dog's neck. With your dog on leash, do a series of training exercises, popping the leash whenever your dog does not respond appropriately. Leash corrections are uncomfortable and get your dog's attention, but they won't hurt your dog. Avoid hitting or kicking your dog, as this might cause it to develop aggressive behaviors.

References & Resources