Do you have behaviour problems with your dog? Barking unnecessarily, aggression, destructive habits? This may be down to him not knowing his place – literally! All dogs, from the biggest wolfhound to the tiniest chihuahua, think they are wolves. This is genetic and hard-wired into their brains.

While many people consider clicker training a new way to work with dogs and other animals, clicker training has actually been around for many, many years under the name “operant conditioning”. Animal trainers, behavior trainers, scientists and even therapist have been using operant training on animals and people for centuries. Operant training works on the principle of pairing a desired behavior with a positive outcome for the animal, one that is not naturally associated with the behavior itself.

Crate training is one of the best possible things that you can do for your puppy. Not only will the puppy be easier to housetrain but overall you will have a happier, more secure dog that has his or her own place to sleep and stay both when you are home and when you are away. This type of dog training is also an asset when you plan to travel with your dog or puppy. Crate training keeps the animal calm on airplanes and also keeps you pet safe when driving. Crates can be attached to seats by seatbelts and harnesses similar to how children’s car seats are fastened into the car. Just like car seats they prevent injury to the dog in the case of a sudden stop or an accident.

Choosing a trainer is a very important decision and one that requires a fair amount of research and consideration. How your trainer works with both you and your dog will impact your relationship with your pet both during the dog training sessions as well as in the future. Many owners have hired a trainer only to find out they don’t agree philosophically with the methods that the trainer uses or are completely opposed to some of the exercises the trainer uses.

Basic Puppy Training: Tips and gentle methods to begin your pup’s basic obedience and potty training.

Basic Dog Training: Learn what you must do to train your dog to develop good obedience and desired behavior successfully.

Dog Training Basics: 12 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know