Can your dog sit on command? Does your dog fetch when you toss a ball? Or do you get blank stares when you ask your dog to “shake?” If your furry friend isn’t inclined to follow your commands, there’s no time like the present to change that. Welcome to January, aka National Train Your Dog Month!
While many of their human counterparts are attempting to learn new habits through New Year resolutions, dogs across the country can also be learning to roll over, play dead and much more. Established by The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, this month is dedicated to creating closer bonds between man and his best friend through proper dog training.
Training your pet is about more than silly tricks. With so many new pets finding homes during the December holiday season, newly created fur families need to establish boundaries and let their new best friends know what is expected as well. This can be accomplished through training and socialization. From the website trainyourdogmonth.com:
“The event is designed to promote the importance and benefits of training dogs to become happy and healthy companions. Too many dogs are turned into animal shelters each year for behavior and training issues that could be easily solved with proper socialization and positive, gentle, science-based methods of training. Moreover, we want the public to know that training your dog is not just beneficial, it’s FUN!”
Not sure where to start? No problem! The APDT has pulled together a collection of training tips to help you with your perky pup. Through step-by-step guides and helpful videos, you can teach your canine the basics like “sit,” “stay” and “down,” as well as how to behave when visiting the vet, how to walk without pulling and even some interesting tricks that are fun for all.
If you love the idea of having a well-trained dog but aren’t certain you have the time to properly devote yourself to the endeavor, you can always hire a professional trainer. The APDT has a Trainer Search section that allows you to easily find a professional dog trainer near where you live.
Often, issues with a dog’s behavior or inability to blend with their new family can be solved through dedicated attention and training. With the resources available through the APDT’s National Train Your Dog Month, you too can have a well-trained dog as a loving and devoted member of your family.
