How to train your dog

Start with the basics

While teaching your dog to skateboard sounds like such an awesome idea, you may want to back up a bit. Make a list of things you'd like your dog to be able to do on a daily basis (sit, stay, go potty outside and not on your new comforter, etc.). Then put those in order of importance and work on each accordingly. Once your dog has mastered simple tasks, you can move on to more complex training sessions.

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Use simple commands

While you may find that "Could you please sit, Fido?" is a very polite request, your dog is likely very confused. Keep your commands short, simple and consistent. Cut the niceties and simply say, "Sit." This is a much easier command for your dog to learn and remember.

Use positive reinforcement-based reward system

Yelling -- or worse, hitting -- your dog is not an effective training tool. A positive reinforcement-based rewards training system is much more effective. And, duh, much less cruel. When training your dog, reward him each time he performs the command you've asked of him. You can use a yummy dog treat, a favorite toy or praise. Give the reward immediately after the dog performs the correct command.

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Switch it up

Instead of repeating the same command over and over and over ad nauseam, switch it up. Work on one command for no more than 15 repetitions, then switch to working on a new or different command. You can come back to the initial command later in your training session.

Keep training sessions short

You know how you lose interest 15 minutes into your morning meeting? Your dog is the same way (except he doesn't have to sit through your morning meeting. Lucky!) The point is, dogs' attention spans are short, particularly puppies', and different breeds may take shorter or longer to train, so tailor your training sessions accordingly.

Have patience

You have to have patience when training a dog. Remember, he is learning and these things take time. Keep your training sessions consistent and don't give up. But if you are continually met with no progress after each training session, try another method or even another location or time of day. There are many variables that may make that particular setting/time difficult for your dog. If you feel you have exhausted your ability to train your dog, check out some training books or visit your local pet store to see about some group or private training sessions.

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Make time for play

Don't consider your training session with your dog your only bonding time. Make specific time every day for walks, throwing him the ball or simply giving him a good belly rub. After all, they don't call him man's best friend for nothing.

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