Poodle Training - Are You Smarter Than a Poodle?
Shalisha Alston
October 29, 2009
Poodle training requires that certain principles be followed. In fact training any dog breed requires following certain basics. Regardless of whether you're trying to teach your poodle a new trick or house train him, there are certain guidelines you need always remember and follow.
You are the Leader of the Pack
Poodles may look cute and sophisticated, but they still carry the blood of the wolf in their veins They are pack animals. In the Poodle world, there is the phenomenon known as the alpha.
Once you adopt your Poodle, your family now becomes his "pack" and you must establish yourself as the alpha in order to gain and maintain your Poodle's respect. This does not require brutality on your part--quite the opposite Firstly, use a firm tone, in other words, there's never a need to yell at your dog.
Consistency is the Key
If you reprimand your dog when he jumps on your counter then laugh the next time he does it, he he'll be confused if you repremand him Is the couch forbidden or not? Consistency means that every single time your poodle performs bad behavior he gets corrected and every single time he performs the desired behavior you reward him.
If you're consistent with your correction and praise, this will be the only way your dog knows what's expected of him.
Set Aside Regular Time for Training
It's important that you conduct training sessions at the same time every day Training time should be separate and distinct from any other time you spend with your Poodle so that he knows the difference. Speak to your poodle in a calm, firm voice, and only praise desired behavior.
One Command at a Time
Dogs are brilliant but they'll become overwhelmed if you try to teach them too many things at once Stick with one command until your dog learns it well
Don't bore your dog by being overly repetitious with one command Once it has obeyed a command several times in a row without mistakes, it's time to move on to something else
Motivate Him With a Reward
Lots of trainers believe you should give your dog a snack to reward them for good behavior. But what your dog really wants is your love and approval! It's best to rub your dog enthusiastically and say "good dog" in a very high pitched exuberant manner!
Never Use Physical Punishment as a Form of Discipline
This should go without saying, but never, ever strike your dog no matter what it does or doesn't do Physical violence teaches your poodle nothing but fear and hatred
To correct your dog, all you have to do is say, "No," in a firm voice. The poodle will quickly hear your displeasure.
Now that you have the general poodle training principles mastered, it's time to learn some techniques of poodle obedience training.
Got Dog Problems? The GOOD news for YOU is that it's easier than you may think to regain control of your Poodle. Discover all the latest PROVEN methods and techniques YOU can use to train your Poodle. Find out about poodle obedience training.