Not that many tasks call for more patience than training a dog. Each breed features their own characteristics that present different challenges.
Some can be keen to please, but dim-witted. Others are greatly intelligent, but often easily distracted and boisterous. Size can also bring its own special considerations.
The small dog breed can easily be transported, this offers more options for training, be it at home or in a quiet park. But they are inclined to bark that much more eagerly and often too bold or fearful dependent on the situation. Additional effort is often desirable with bark suppression.
As with most training routines, start to train at a young age and on a frequent basis. Be certain to command early on the 'alpha' status. Reply firmly to any disruptions, and do not be taken in by 'cuteness'
With training a small dog breed on a leash, be careful to make any correction side-ways on the neck (with a tug, restraint or jerk) rather than a backwards motion. If a dog tugs forward, pull sideways to inform and correct, not to chastise. Even the smaller dogs have tough neck muscles, but the throat area can be easily bruised.
When encouraging a dog to sit, be cautious not to put too much force on the rear quarters. Small breeds are sturdy, even so in view of the difference in size, it is all too easy to be forceful when you in fact wish to direct.
The large dog breeds also come with their own intrinsic challenges. The strength/weight ration between the dog and trainer can tip in favour of a dog, extra thought comes into effect.
One of the key points to mention is – always be on watch. A Yorkshire terrier that starts to tug on its leash suddenly is often just annoying, if the same should happen with a large dog it can be quite hazardous. If a Rottweiler, Bloodhound, or German shepherd decides to dash after a squirrel you must to be set to resist.
Opt for a leash that an inch thick at least that’s made of leather or nylon. Be sure the collar is of sufficient size and fitted with fasteners that aren't going to split under tension.
As with the small dog breeds, perform any corrections with a sideways jerk – not backwards. Their throats can also be bruised with too much force. It's simply a case of jerk and than release. This also assists in putting them off balance for a moment.
The larger breeds, even those that are socialized, will at times go after a small child. It can be hard to tell, but this can often come down to seeing them as prey or someone to play with, being their own size. Be careful not to permit jumping. Be set to enforce a leash correction, until the actual training has reached a stage where pure vocal instructions are reliably reacted too.
A large dog is more inclined to attempt at jumping a fence, and often seen to be unsuccessful in clearing one cleanly. This is rarely likely to result in something such as a broken bone, but it's still typical to get a few scratches on the belly in this way – often needing treatment and an unexpected vet's bill.
In order to prevent this possible situation, ensure that sufficient barriers are in place. Even the best instructed dogs can at times react to nature and chase after a dog or cat.
Both small and large dog breeds are in need of some type of training to reinforce and learn guidelines on what's accepted behavior and what isn't. Consistent and clear rules are necessary to acknowledge who the actual leader is and who should be following. You need to be first, and the dog coming in as the latter.
A to Z Dog Breeds
