Mary Allen
#10 Break down complex commands into multiple simple steps
When you sometimes see agility or dog dancing on TV, how complicated commands some dogs obey, I sometimes get a feeling of jealousy.
The reality is that no dog learns complicated commands on the fly. Instead, start with simple commands that a Labrador can learn quickly. Until the dog masters these commands. And then several commands are combined.
For example, when the dog sits down when a whistle is whistle, turns around once and then sits down again. First, the “sit command” is trained here. Then this is combined with a whistle. Then, with the help of treats that are passed around in a circle above the dog's head, the dog learns to turn and then sit again. This whole combination is combined and put together with a whistle.
#11 Choose the right goals
When starting training your Labradors, make sure you are realistic.
Don't expect your dog to always and immediately obey the command after successful "sit" training. Your dog is distracted, doesn't feel like it or would rather play and then the sit command is forgotten for the time being. It takes time for a Labrador puppy to reliably master the most important commands.
So make sure you are realistic about what you ask of your dog. Because otherwise everyone will end up frustrated.
#12 Don’t punish your Labrador
The Animal Welfare Association repeatedly points out the fatal consequences of punishment in dog training. Dogs can become fearful or aggressive.
The discussions have been going on for years, between coaches who believe in the "dominance" approach and those who have abandoned it altogether.
Punishing your Lab during training sessions also increases the likelihood that your dog will stop trusting you. However, a good relationship with a dog can only work on the basis of trust.