Training your dog is just such a wonderful journey that cements not only the love of a human with his dog but also refines the behavior of your best friend. Whether you own a light-hearted American Bully or a sharp-witted American Eskimo, basic commands and advanced techniques are a must for teaching your dog to ensure their betterment and your pleasure. Here comes a detailed guide that will help you achieve the training objectives in the pet world.
Basic Commands: The Foundation of Training
1. Sit
Probably one of the easiest and most useful commands for every dog breed owner can teach their pet, “Sit” can often be the first command you begin with because it lays a foundation for other behaviors.
How to Teach It:
Hold a treat close to your dog's nose.
Move your hand up and their head will follow the treat, causing their bottom to go down.
As soon as they are in sitting position, instantly give them the treat and praise.
Repeat it several times until your dog correlates the order and their action.
2. Stay
The “Stay” command keeps your dog in place. This could be anything from holding their ground at the pedestrian crossing to being patient at the vet.
How to Teach It:
Begin with your dog in the “Sit” position.
- Open your hand out in front of you and say “Stay.”
- Take a step back. If he is still there, then give him the treat.
- Increase slowly the length and time between treats
- Remember to be consistent. Practice regularly.
3. Come
The “Come” command is for safety and recall of a dog off-leash.
How to Teach It:
- Start by using a leash to help guide your dog.
- Get down to their level and say “Come” in a happy voice.
- Gently tug them toward you with the leash if they don't.
- When they come to you, reward them with treats and praise.
- Gradually increase the distance and practice in different environments.
4. Leave It
This command teaches your dog to leave alone something they're inclined to stare at or sniff, or even eat.
How to Teach It:
- Place a treat in both hands.
- Let them see one of the treats, then say “Leave it.”
- Close your hand over the treat and just wait for him to stop interested.
- When they stop trying to get the treat, then give them the treat from the other hand.
- Repeat as necessary and gradually increase the difficulty level.
Advanced Techniques: Developing Your Dog's Skills
1. Heel
The “Heel” command has the dog stay at your side while walking on a loose leash.
How to Teach It:
- Start by having your dog on the leash, then in the “Sit” position.
- Begin walking, holding a treat at your side.
- Say “Heel” and command your dog to walk beside you.
- Reward them with treats and praise for staying close.
- Practice regularly, increasing the length of time you walk.
2. Roll Over
“Roll Over” is a fun trick showing both agility as well as training of your dog.
How to Teach It:
- Begin with your dog in the “Down” position.
- Hold a treat close to their nose and move it slowly towards their shoulder.
- As they follow the treat, they will begin rolling. Encourage them to roll over.
- Once they roll over, reward them with the treat and praise.
- Practice the trick in short, fun sessions.
3. Play Dead
The “Play Dead” command is a great trick that can be taught when your dog has mastered “Roll Over”.
How to Train:
- First, get your dog on a “Down” position.
- Slowly roll them onto their side and say “play dead” or your command of choice
- Reward with treat while in position
- Gradually add in the command without physically rolling them
4. Fetch
“Fetch” is a great way to get your dog a nice workout in while also challenging them a bit mentally too.
How to Teach It:
- First, get your dog to take a toy or ball in their mouth.
- Fetch” is a good command to use, and you should throw the toy a few feet away.
- Have them return it with the use of treats or even another favorite toy.
- Reward them when they bring the toy back.
- Over time, increase the distance or difficulty of the game.
Specific Breeds Training: American Bully and American Eskimo
American Bully:
Based on positive reward and consistency, structured training benefits a breed that is strong and loyal. They are very receptive to commands if the training is coupled with clear and patient communication. Embed engaging activities and exercises so that their energetic minds and bodies are stimulated.
American Eskimo:
Bright and willing to please, American Eskimos respond easily to training. Mental stimulation-based training programs are worthwhile, with rewards being gained. Apply that natural intelligence when teaching advanced tricks and commands. Remember to praise a lot and keep fun in their training sessions.
Successful Training Tips
Consistency:
Use the same commands/ cues every time. This shall help your dog learn quickly since they know what you expect from them.
Positive Reinforcement:
Always give treats, praise, or playtime when the behavior is good. This strengthening comes from positive reinforcement between you and your dog.
Patience:
Training takes time.
Be patient and keep the sessions short and fun so that frustration doesn't build up.
Socialization:
Expose the dog to various environments, people, and other animals for the enhancement of their training and social skills.This is particularly important for meeting ESA letter requirements as well
Training your dog can be such a journey that will enrich both you and your dog's lives. Building a base of basic commands and gradually increasing the difficulty level to higher techniques is what will make a polite, contented dog. Whether an American Bully or an American Eskimo Dog, with positive reinforcement and much patience, you will go long in getting very good results.
