A little training can make a dog your friend for life

Hawaiian Humane Society

Many pet owners do all they can to care for their dogs. They replenish the food dishes regularly, fill the water bowl and keep the living space clean. They visit the veterinarian and use heartworm, flea and tick preventives. They make sure the gates are secure and that there are no openings in the fence before they leave for work. But sometimes pet owners forget one of the easiest things they can do to ensure their pets' safety and well-being: training.

Teaching your dog to listen to commands can keep it safe from the dangers of passing cars. It can prevent confrontations with other dogs while out for a walk. When your dog understands simple commands, you have more control to prevent accidents before they occur.

Training cements a strong bond between you and your animal. The result is a happier dog, a wonderful companion who will be loved by the whole family.

Dogs can be trained from as young as eight weeks to adult age. Puppies learn quickly, but are more likely to forget. Older dogs may require more repetition, but remember commands longer.

Positive reinforcement in training is recommended by the Hawaiian Humane Society's animal behavior coordinator, Marty Hutchins.

"The emphasis on positive rewards for positive actions is more likely to encourage proper behavior from your dog," Hutchins said. "Dogs are more motivated if you make the training session fun and use treats rather than punishing them."

Punishment can cause anxiety and ruin your relationship with your pet. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, "food, a favored toy, affection and social attention" are the best ways to reinforce good behavior.

Once your dog knows and understands simple commands, it will respond to them for the rest of its life. A well-trained companion won't show aggression or bark continuously for attention, but only when appropriate. You will be able to stop your pooch before it runs into a dangerous situation or ingests something harmful. With training, your dog will come immediately when you call.

Train your dog to follow your commands, and you will increase its physical safety and lengthen its life and the time you have to spend together.

Train in a quiet area away from distractions. Be patient and consistent, and have all family members use the same terms. Praise your dog whenever it responds positively to a command, and keep the sessions short.

For more information, see the Animal Care and Behavior section of the Hawaiian Humane Society's Web site, www.hawaiianhumane.org. To receive a brochure by mail on how to choose a dog trainer, plus a list of O'ahu obedience classes and clubs, phone 946-2187, ext. 223.