Training dogs for the beach…
Normally, when you’re walking down a beach, any dog you see you should be able to assume is reasonably well training. If they’re not trained – they’d be a a leash, right? Wrong. It seems to me that responsible owners with trained dogs only let them off leash when either (a) they are by themselves, with no one around or (b) they are in a designated off leash area. So which type are you. In order to become the responsible owner, it’s critical that you train the dog. This short essay is to provide some dog training advice for those owners.
The very first thing you should consider is when. As in, when do I start training. The correct answer is now. Puppies as young as eight weeks can be trained, and they learn quickly. Older dogs can be trained as well – but it might take a bit longer.
I think that seeking out professional training is cheaper and quicker in the long run than going it alone. When you consider the dead ends and false starts, not to mention the time and energy used, it’s a bargain. The first place to look for said training is your local community center – they usually host sessions all the time – just beware that there may be several types – I’ve seen “puppy training”, “off leash training” and “aggressive dog training” at mine.
The critical thing to be with your dog is predictable. All the time. You and anyone with regular contact with the dog must show a consistent response to the same behavior all the time, with no exceptions.
Another basic idea is that of rewarding the dog. Regardless of what the reward it, it needs to be given immediately after the behavior. Don’t wait a few seconds or minutes, as the dog will forget why he’s being rewarded.
There you have it – four very short, easy ideas on training your dog – I just wish people on the beach would do it!
Incoming search terms:
- essay about dogs on a beach