A well-trained canine makes a better companion. Obedience classes can help your dog learn to behave the way you want him to. He’ll be able to adapt more easily to his environment within your home as well as interact more socially with your family and friends. A well-trained dog is a pleasure to be around.

It’s impossible to overstate the value of enrolling your pooch into obedience classes that are taught by a professional trainer. Not only will that person use effective methods that yield long-term benefits, but your canine will also have a chance to interact with other pets and their owners.

That said, there’s a lot you can do at home. Below, we’ll provide three dog training basics that you can use to help your canine become a well-adjusted member of your family.

Have Fun

First, keep your sessions short – no more than 15 minutes. Otherwise, your canine may lose interest and begin responding poorly to your commands (frustrating you in the process). The key is to create a training environment that is enjoyable for both of you. If you don’t feel like participating, wait until you do. Also, to help motivate your dog for future sessions, end every session by giving him an easy command and then provide him with dog treats when he responds correctly.

Get Rid of Negative Reinforcement

Owners often react in a negative manner when their dog fails to respond to commands. For example, they might strike or yell at them. It’s important to realize that positive reinforcement methods are far more effective when you train your pooch. Remember, he wants to please you. If he responds to your commands correctly, give him a treat. If he doesn’t, withhold the dog treats. He’ll get the message loud and clear and modify his behavior accordingly.

Teach The Long Stay

Canines get antsy, especially if you’re nearby. Sitting still can be a major challenge for them. Your pooch may have no trouble sitting for 10 or 15 seconds when you command him to do so. However, most dogs will fail to sit for longer periods. It is important to teach your dog self-control.

You’ll need to train him by starting with a short period of time and gradually extending it as he succeeds. For example, start with 20 seconds and give him a treat when he succeeds. Once he’s done this. Persist with this activity until your dog can sit still with you nearby for at least 60 seconds. It might also help to teach specific words (like “easy”) that you can say to calm him down.

There are few experiences more rewarding than owning a well-trained dog. While professional training is important, you can use the above tips at home to help your pooch become a better companion.