Dog Training - Adapt Your Tactics to Fit the Breed

By Terry Zinndell

There are various breeds of dogs; in fact, they are all so different that it is best at times to not even consider them all as the same species. Dogs can interbreed and this is the reason biologists consider them all the same. However, when it comes to dog owners it is best to accentuate the differences in dogs than to emphasize their similarities.

A Great Danes and a Jack Russell look act and think very differently. A Jack Russell is more hyperactive than a Great Dane. A Golden Retriever and a Collie are very different from one another. The Golden Retriever is more excitable, fun loving and friendly. A German Shepherd and a Chihuahua have absolutely nothing in common other than being a canine animal.

Depending upon the breed you intend to train, you will need to revise the training of each because of these differences in dogs. Every dog needs patience while training, yet some will need it more than others do. German Shepherds are very smart and an easy breed to train since they enjoy performing to commands of obedience. Jack Russell's are smart as well, however they can be very willful and require a variation in training technique.

One highly active, high-energy dog is a terrier, distraction techniques work well for them. They have the ability to spot movement and then they quickly go after the animal making the movement. It can be a challenge to keep their attention while training them. You may consider using dog treats, toy and other objects to keep their attention on you, by wiggling the object in their face to do so.

Collies can be equally trainable yet mellower; they are very protective and extremely loyal, which is wonderful. However, it can present challenges as well, since a collie may bark spontaneously and then chase anyone who they perceive as a threat to the family. This is desirable of a night watchdog guarding the home; however, it does get annoying when it happens each time a child walks along the sidewalk in the evening.

Bark collars are can be useful under these circumstances. However, once darkness falls you should remove the collar. This will help the dog associate discouragement from barking in the day, while it can function as a watchdog during the night.

Dalmatians are wonderful companions, yet they are very strong and ultra-energetic. This can cause a problematic situation for a dog that spends too much time in a small yard with no one to play with. If you plan to own one of these dogs, you will need to make time for working off all his or her surplus energy.

The only speed Dalmatians understand is full speed ahead. They do require a large area for running and playing. They require a master who can toss the ball far, far away and still be able to command them fully. They are loyal dogs that need a strong hand, since it takes a forceful master to be the alpha dog as far as a Dalmatian is concerned.

You will need to modify your training system to fit the actual personality of your dog, while including the consideration of both the aspects of the breed and the characteristics unique to your particular dog. Remember, dogs are individuals just as humans are. - 29953

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