By Richard Cross Terris
Being a good dog owner isn't just about feeding, exercise and affection. It's important to understand your dog and what it is trying to tell you. Of course, dogs can't actually tell you what they are thinking, but there are some things all owners should have in mind about their companion.
1. Dogs aren't like humans....
......and they don't want to be. Many dog owners like to think their dog behaves in a human way, and as a consequence try to treat their dogs like humans. In reality dogs aren't like humans, and no matter how well trained they are owners can't expect their dog to behave like one. Most dogs will enjoy being treated like a human to a certain extent, but don't expect them to act like one in return!
2. Dogs don't understand human language.....
......until they are taught. I've seen many dog owners that seem to think if their dog knows the command "stay" it will also know "don't move". Dogs don't know what something means until they are explicitly taught it whilst having the word associated with a command or action.
3. Dogs won't always behave like you want them to....
.....until properly trained. Dogs have habits that most humans don't find particularly attractive. All dog owners must expect this kind of behaviour, so that it doesn't come as a surprise and if necessary can be addressed through proper training techniques.
If you understand these three points about dogs you are well on your way to being a successful trainer!
A well trained dog is a happy dog, and it is vitally important all dogs receive proper obedience training. To find out how you can train your dog like a pro, please visit this dog training ebook.
Richard Cross is owner of the Pets Clinic website. Pets clinic provides health information and advice about all kinds of pets, with new articles added daily.
