Happy 2020! We all seem to start every year with the best intentions for improvement in our lives. If you were fortunate enough to bring a four-legged friend into your family over the holidays, dog training would be a great resolution!
January is ‘National Train Your Dog’ month, and there is no time like the present to begin! However, where do you start? After all, training takes time, money, and commitment on your part. We have a few suggestions for you:
- Check with your vet: Over the years, your veterinarian’s office may have gathered names of trainers in your area, which they highly recommend.
- Ask a friend: Know someone with a well-behaved dog? Chances are they put the work into training and may provide you with some great advice and the name of an experienced trainer.
- Local Parks & Recreation Departments: Many cities with Parks and Recreation departments offer group classes based on the age of your dog for reasonable prices. Who knows? You and your dog may find a playgroup among your classmates!
- Do your own research: The internet can be a terrific source to locate a trainer in your area, which fits into your lifestyle and where past clients have left reviews regarding their experiences with the trainer.
- Go it alone: An excellent resource for this is Whole Dog Journal https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/. This periodical has books on training, as well as specified methods like socializing well and verbal cues. Also, check your local library or YouTube for helpful videos.
Probably the most important aspects of dog training are consistency, patience, and a loving attitude. Keep in mind, this is a learning experience for you as well, so make it fun!
All of us at Do Only Good Certified Pet Nutrition, wish you and your beloved pets a happy and healthy 2020. If there are any subjects you would be interested in us covering this year, we would love to hear from you! Please send an email to info@doonlygoodpetfood.com with your ideas – we appreciate your input!
