***Dog Obedience Issues

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Written by Janie Knetzer

Owning a dog is a wonderful experience. The unconditional love and companionship that you receive from a dog can often be unmatched. On the other hand many dog owners become frustrated with unwanted behavior on behalf of their dog. They feel nothing can be done to correct unwanted dog behavioral problems such as leash pulling, aggressiveness, jumping, barking, separation anxiety, digging and so on.

Many times these problems cause owners to give up on the dog without realizing that help is readily available. Dog walking problems are one example of why many dog owners give up. The task of walking the dog becomes too stressful for the owner and the exercise quickly ends for both dog and owner. For dogs, a lack of exercise frequently causes frustration. This frustration leads to more unwanted behavior and sadly leads to the owner giving up on the dog entirely.

Unfortunately, shelters across the country see dogs being returned at an alarming rate. In these uncertain times, economics certainly play a role in many of these misfortunes. However, numerous dogs are returned largely due to dog obedience issues.

The lack of education, support and willingness are contributing factors for pet owners surrendering a dog to a shelter. The owner is annoyed and doesn’t know where to turn.

At this point it is vital that dog owners realize the options available for correcting unwanted behavior before giving up on what can be a rewarding experience.

For many people today, professional dog training just isn’t in the budget. Yet, there are things owners can do themselves to successfully train Fido right at home. There are several excellent books available to guide dog owners through the process of dog training. No matter what training material you use, the biggest and most important factor to successfully training your best friend is “consistency”. You can’t expect your dog to learn if you are not willing to work with him or her on a regular basis.

The consistent training is a rewarding experience for your dog. The attention and praise he receives when he’s done a “good job” is what a dog lives for. Even if the dog seems impossible, don’t give up. It’s at matter of consistency, trust and praise that will turn your dog into the well behaved dog of your dreams.