Niagara Animal Chiropractor Gives 5 Helpful Tips for Training Your Dog

Dogs make fantastic companions, but training them to behave a certain way can be a challenge, even for the most experienced owner. If you’re getting ready to tackle the task of training your pooch, or are smack dab in the middle of the process and struggling to see results, here are a few helpful tips from a Niagara Animal Chiropractor on how you can successfully train your dog.

Hit the Road  – Sometimes helping your dog to overcome negative or destructive behavior can be as easy as making sure they are getting enough exercise. Experts suggest taking your dog for a brisk walk every morning, shortly after they wake up, as well as some time midday and after dinner. This helps to release a lot of your pup’s energy – energy that when pent up can result in your dog acting out. A dog that receives ample exercise and activity outdoors will be much more well behaved indoors.

Don’t Get Too Physical  – While a quick, firm touch is ok when you’re trying to distract or redirect your dog’s behavior, you should never resort to hitting your pet when he or she does something wrong. This only breeds fear and can result in more negative behavior. Instead, use a firm tone and the occasional light touch or nudge when necessary (your  Niagara Animal Chiropractor can demonstrate this for you), and you’ll see much better results.

Be a Leader  – Dogs instinctively travel in packs, and each pack has its own hierarchy of leadership. While you certainly want to have a loving relationship with your dog, it’s also important to assert yourself as the leader of his or her pack. This establishes a sense of dominance and respect, which is required if you are going to train your dog successfully.

Establish a Routine  – Most dogs respond very well to structure and routine, and this can actually help you to keep your four-legged family member more balanced and easier to train. If you take a walk every morning, stick to it. Your pet will become healthier and more balanced, and will also bond better with you.

Enlist the Help of a Professional   – Not every pooch is a good candidate for home training. It’s ok to admit when you’re in over your head. If you feel that you’ve tried everything and you still can’t seem to get the results you’re after with your dog, talk to your  Niagara Animal Chiropractor. They may be able to assist you directly, or refer you to an expert behaviorist for a consultation.

Training your pet what behaviors are and are not acceptable is part of responsible dog ownership. These tips should help you get your pooch on the right track for becoming a well-mannered member of the family.

At the Main West Animal Hospital,  we have been committed to caring for pets for over 35 years.   We understand the incredible bond that develops between people and their pets because we are pet lovers too.  At our hospital we take pride in making a difference in the lives of pets and creating lasting friendships with our clients. We believe that pets are an important part of our family and our community.  We come to work each and every day dedicated to consistently providing compassionate care to improve the lives of pets and their families.

Our highly trained veterinarians and friendly staff create a warm welcoming environment for you and your pet.  Our full service Veterinary hospital uses the latest equipment and technology to ensure we can provide the best care for your pet.  We are dedicated to taking a holistic approach to Veterinary medicine, treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms.

Our hospital provides preventative health care and vaccinations options for pets. We also offer animal chiropractic care,advanced surgical, medical, dental and emergency services. We are fully equipped with In-house Diagnostics, X-ray, Laser Therapy and Endoscopy services.  We would love to meet you and your pet, contact us today so that we can start building a relationship with your family (905)735-7877 or visit us online at www.mainwestvet.com