Michael’s Pack Recognizes “National Train Your Dog Month” with These Helpful Tips

(Mineola, NY) — January is “National Train Your Dog Month” and in recognition, Michael’s Pack wants to help you learn the most simple and efficient ways to train your adorable puppy or dog. Training your dog can be a difficult task and takes a lot of time and patience. However, following these tips may help cut your time and energy in half.

Below are a few common behavioral issues that Michael Schaier, Owner and Head Trainer of Michael’s Pack, typically sees in the dogs and puppies that he trains and some suggestions for pet owners to help improve their dog’s actions:

• Come on Command/Recall — This is the most common reason why pet owners bring their dogs to training facilities. They want their dogs to come to them on command and do not know the proper way to teach them. First, you have to decide what your dog is most responsive to. Does he/she respond to a tasty treat or a squeaky toy? After you discover their “higher value” item by experimenting, always use it when calling your dog. Remember to verbally praise your pet and give them the treat or play with them when they comply.

If your dog obeys you, do not ask them to sit when they approach you — this is a common mistake many owners make. Dogs will get confused with the recall command and sit command if you ask them to sit when they come to you. Rather, always separate both commands and reward them after each one.

• Jumping — Many pet owners wonder why their dogs constantly jump on them or their guests. Basically, it is the dog’s way of greeting people, as ours is to shake hands or hug. In this instance, use Michael’s Packs’ technique of “Startle, Redirect, and Reward (SRR).” When your dog/puppy jumps, clap your hands, redirect to a positive exercise, and then, reward them with their favorite treat. Rather than screaming “no” when they jump, ask them to perform a different command (like “sit”) and praise them. Always use positive reinforcement when training your dog.  Dogs don’t respond to “no,” but they will respond to rewards.

• Pulling on the leash — Dogs tend to pull on leashes for three reasons: It is a natural reflex, excess energy, or the actions of their owners. If you have a dog that tugs on the leash while you’re taking a walk, train them to walk correctly on the leash by changing his/her direction. Be sure to not put pressure on the leash because that will harm your dog. When your pet begins walking straight with no pulling or tugging, always praise them verbally or give them their “go-to” treat.

Michael’s Pack constantly reminds pet owners that exercise has an enormous impact on their dog’s behavior. The more that you take him/her for walks around the neighborhood and/or play with them, the more they will demonstrate the positive behavior of a healthy, calm pup.

“We urge dog owners to create an exercise routine with their dog,” says Mr. Schaier. “Many owners do not realize the remarkable impact exercise has on puppies and dogs. Exercise helps dogs burn off excess physical or emotional energy and can alleviate some of the behavioral issues they may be exhibiting.”

“If you’re still having trouble training your dog after continuous exercise and proper praise, do not hesitate to bring your pet to our training center, where our staff will help teach you the appropriate training tactics for your dog or puppy,” Mr. Schaier adds.

For more information, please call (516) DOG.PACK (364-7225) or visit www.michaels-pack.com.

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About Michael’s Pack

Michael’s Pack provides private and group dog-training sessions that are based on positive reinforcement, coupled with holistic methods. Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced sessions are offered, both at the Mineola training facility and in private residences. The author of Wag That Tail: A Trainer’s Guide to a Happy Dog, Michael Schaier holds the following certifications: AKC-C.G.C: American Kennel Cub — Canine Good Companion Evaluator; ABC-D.T: Animal Behavior College Dog Trainer; and CPDT-K.A.: Certified Professional Dog Trainer — Knowledge Assessed. For more information, please call (516) 364-7225 or visit www.michaels-pack.com.