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You can get a lot of information about dogs online. Some can be quite good, some can be very poor, and often, for the novice, not-so-novice, and even the occasional professional, it may be difficult to ferret out what is the best method. You will always find information to support one side or another, but what it really comes down to is simple. You need to understand your dog, what his or her needs and wants are based on any background information you may have. If it is a specific breed or identifiable mix, that will give you some parameters from which to work. You also need to bear in mind that your dog will have his or her own individual personality.
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One of the key bits of information that is consistent throughout the industry is to work with your dog on basic obedience, including manners. This is particularly relevant when it comes to dogs that are in shelter or rescue care. A great deal of attention is paid to this aspect, with the goal being to find the dog a forever home where everyone will be happy. In an interesting article by Carolyn Fuhrer on Downeast Dog News, has a great take on dogs learning manners. Her article addresses the issue of people wanting to put their dogs into agility training, but the first thing that is needed is that critical connection between human and dog. She closes her article with the following, “Taking the time to teach basic manners and basic obedience skills will give you a dog that is ready to explore and enjoy the challenges of agility. As an added bonus, you also get a well behaved pet to live with.” Regardless of whether a pet-owner is agility training focused or not, this advice bodes well for everyone.
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Trying to take information off the Internet and make it work well for both you and your pet is not always successful. If you have the opportunity, it is best to find someone in your local area with whom you can take classes, which also offer the additional bonus of socialization for your pet. Do your research, check references, make a visit to the location and meet the instructor, so you know, for yourself, you have found a good match for you and your dog.
Manners and obedience are good for everyone and the perfect opportunity to build a wonderful relationship between you and your dog.
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