As dog owners, we all want the best for our furry friends. We provide them with love, shelter, and the necessary care to keep them happy and healthy. But have you considered the importance of proper training? Hiring a certified dog trainer can be a game-changer for you and your pup, leading to a stronger bond and a more well-behaved companion. Below, we’ll explore the many benefits of hiring a professional trainer for your dog!
Identify and Address Your Dog’s Stress
Stress can affect your dog in several ways. You may notice panting, yawning, and restlessness when your dog is stressed. Your dog may also experience digestive issues or changes in appetite. Behaviorally, stressed dogs can be fearful, aggressive, overly attached, and exhibit destructive behaviors such as chewing or barking excessively. If your dog frequently exhibits signs of stress, consulting a professional trainer is a good idea.
It’s also worthwhile considering how your own stress levels may be affecting your dog. If you work long hours away from home, your dog could be struggling with separation anxiety during the day. You may be able to help reduce this anxiety if you can work from home part of the time. Alternatively, you could hire a pet sitter to drop in on your dog during the workday, or consider a doggy day care.
Boost Manners and Obedience
Obedience training forms a solid foundation on which to grow a relationship of mutual respect with your dog. This type of training ensures your dog understands what’s expected of them. Here are a few signs that your dog could use some obedience training:
- Excessive barking
- Poor leash manners
- Destructive behavior
- Ignoring commands
- Jumping on guests
Help with Specific Problem Behaviors
If your dog behaves well, aside from a couple of problem behaviors, a professional trainer can help you get to the bottom of these issues. Your dog trainer will work with you to assess your dog’s needs and develop a training plan that addresses their specific behavior issues. Your trainer will also teach you how to communicate with your dog and use positive reinforcement techniques. Additionally, a professional will help you troubleshoot any challenges that arise during training and offer guidance to help you overcome them.
Improve Your Relationship with Your Dog
Training your dog is not just about enforcing obedience and encouraging good manners. Proper training can vastly improve the relationship between you and your dog! Part of the reason for this is that well-trained pups are often allowed more freedom. You’ll be able to trust your dog not to grab food off your plate, escape from the yard, or jump on guests when they visit. Training will also reduce frustration with your pet, creating a happier and calmer lifestyle for both you and your furry friend.
Easier Cooperative Care
Cooperative care involves training your dog to tolerate and participate in handling and care behaviors such as grooming, nail trimming, and veterinary exams. There are many effective training techniques you can use to teach your dog these behaviors at home, but if your pup has resorted to biting to get out of handling, it’s best to consult a professional trainer. The key is teaching your dog that they have a choice to participate in handling procedures and giving them a method of communicating their willingness. This way, your dog can let you know when they’re ready to start, stop, slow down, or take a break during grooming.
Hiring a professional dog trainer can be a valuable investment for anyone seeking to improve their dog’s behavior and strengthen their bond with their pet. A certified trainer can assess your dog’s specific needs and develop a customized training plan to address their behavior issues. They can also teach you how to manage your dog’s stress and effectively communicate with your dog to create a relationship of mutual respect and support.
Are you looking for a professional trainer? Freak on a Leash offers a wide variety of dog training services, from manners and obedience training to behavior modification and puppy training. Call 757-301-1161 today!
written by Jessica Brody Our Best Friends