Dog training basics every beginner should know
The handful of ideas that make every other training guide make sense.
By Pawfessor Editorial TeamPublished 1 min read
Training guides can feel like a hundred different methods. Underneath, good training rests on a few simple ideas. Learn these nine and every guide becomes easier to follow.
1. Dogs do what works
Behavior that gets a good result is repeated. Behavior that gets nothing fades. Your dog isn’t stubborn or dominant: they’re doing what has worked for them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important thing in dog training?
Timing. Mark and reward the exact moment your dog does the right thing, so they know what earned it.
Do I have to use treats forever?
No. Treats teach a new skill fast. Once it's learned, you reward less often and swap in life rewards like play, sniffing and going through the door.
Sources and further reading
- (2021). Position Statement on Humane Dog Training. American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).
- Hiby, E., Rooney, N., and Bradshaw, J. (2004). Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare, 13(1), 63–69.
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