We are enjoying many beautiful fall days here in The County. If you enjoy a brisk walk and some canine companionship, be sure to stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society and walk one of our many dogs. It will be great fun and will benefit both of you.
Teaching your dog cues can be useful when you’re asking him to perform a specific task or behavior. You may already be using cues without realizing it, like holding your hand up for a “sit” or pointing to the ground for a “down.” Those are visual cues, but they also come in verbal forms. For example, telling your dog to “stay” is one verbal cue that gives your dog direction.
And if you combine both verbal and visual cues, it will help your dog to understand what you are asking of them.
One example is to use a treat to get your dog into a sitting position, rewarding them immediately for a job well done. Once your dog begins to understand what they are meant to do, you can introduce the cue by saying the word “Sit” (or giving the hand signal) just before your dog does it. This is how you pair the cue with the behavior.
The first part is teaching your dog the desired task. Keeping treats and other motivators nearby will help your dog stay focused on the task at hand. Then, rewarding the new task enough times will help show your pup that they are getting the hang of it.
Following are some tips that may help you as you train your dog.
Once and done. Only say or visually cue your dog one time and wait for them to perform the task. If you say “Sit” over and over again, your dog is going to think you mean to say the word “Sit” four times before they should sit.
Get their attention. Having your dog’s attention is important, before you cue them to do a task or behavior. It will be more effective if your pet can see or hear you.
Be consistent. Be consistent with your cue. You should use the same word or hand signal every time, so as not to confuse your pup.
Signal the end. Always finish a training session by giving a release word like “OK”
Practice. Practicing cues in different places with some distractions will also help your dog with these tasks.
Treats. Give a special treat immediately after for a reward for their achievement.
Patience. And lastly, be patient. Dogs are lifelong learners, and with repetition they will eventually master new commands.
Stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society at 210 Cross St. in Presque Isle. You can also check us out on Facebook.
Please be responsible: Neuter and spay your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society Board of Directors.
