Dog training provides dogs with the basic good manners we all want in our community—from the polite greeting when guests arrive, to walking nicely on the leash, to coming when called. Beware, dog training is unregulated in Australia, and there are trainers who continue to use dog training methods that are now considered inhumane and out of date.

Many benefits of dog training for you and your dog

  1. Having a trained dog is a joy to both you and your dog

A well-trained dog is all the more enjoyable a companion. Your dog will be welcome in far more places, environments, and situations if they have been taught some basic manners. And a well-mannered dog is loved by all!

2. Mental stimulation and physical exercise

6 benefits of dog training

Dog training should be fun for you and your dog. Photo: Shutterstock

In the wild, dogs spend much of their time hunting and foraging for food. The remainder is spent resting. Modern dogs have not been genetically prepared for ample food and nothing to do. Dog training provides mental stimulation and physical exercise for your dog (and you)!

3. Socialisation of your dog with people and other dogs

Modern society has placed an unrealistic expectation on dogs – they are expected to be friendly to every person and dog they meet.

Dog training plays a key role in the socialisation of your pup. A well-socialised dog will calmly acknowledge that other people and dogs are there, and accept interaction from a polite person.

4. Bond with your dog

The process of bonding with your dog begins as soon as you bring them home. If you have a young puppy, the process is usually very quick, but if you have adopted an older dog, bonding might take a little more time.

Training builds your mutual bond, enhances the partnership and enriches the relationship you share with your dog. If your dog is having a fun time learning, your bond strengthens, you are able to move closer to achieving your training goals.

5. Keep your dog safe

The recall is when a dog comes immediately when they are called-anywhere, anytime and in any situation. It’s important because it might just save your dog’s life. When your dog is trained to come when called, it means they can run around in the off-leash dog park while you have verbal control in case of any potentially risky situations.

6. Foundation for dog sports

No matter what age you start training your dog, training in basic manners provides the foundation for any activity you want your dog to do including dog sports. There is something for every dog in Australia including agility, rally-obedience, dancing with your dog, disc dog, earth dog, tracking, search & rescue, sledding, retrieving trials, nose work, endurance and Treiball.

Reviewed by Louise Newman, Let’s Go Fido, Delta-accredited instructor and Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers Australia

Sources

Delta Society of Australia
Karen Pryor author of ‘Don’t Shoot the Dog’
Louise Glazebrook author of ‘Dog About Town’