A Slacker’s Guide to Training Your Dog: From Puppyhood to Dog Sports, a Guide to Training Your Dog for New Pet Owners

By Sarah Michaels

This lighthearted manual will have you and your furry friend rolling on the floor in laughter as you work together to build a relationship based on mutual trust, understanding, and, of course, plenty of treats.

Written in a conversational and humorous tone, this book is perfect for first-time dog owners and seasoned trainers alike, providing practical and entertaining advice that's guaranteed to make your dog training experience enjoyable and successful. This book expertly covers everything from puppy training and socialization, to addressing common behavioral issues, and even exploring the exciting world of dog sports.

Some of the pawsome topics you'll find inside include:

• House training for puppies and adult dogs

• Obedience skills and fun tricks

• Tackling behavioral challenges with humor and grace

• Tips for reinforcing good behavior and overcoming training plateaus

• Mental stimulation and exercise

• Nutrition, grooming, and healthcare for your canine companion

• Celebrating your dog's achievements and the lifelong bond between you and your furry friend

With "The Canine Chronicles," you'll discover:

• Over 40 entertaining and informative chapters covering a wide range of dog training topics

• Anecdotes and personal stories that will make you laugh and inspire you to be the best dog owner you can be

• A glossary of dog training terms to help you decode that jargon-filled dog training lingo

• Invaluable resources for books, websites, and local training opportunities to further your canine education

Don't let your dog training journey turn into a comedy of errors. Instead, choose this book and discover how laughter and learning can go hand in hand. So go on, unleash your inner dog trainer and prepare for the most rewarding and rib-tickling adventure you and your canine companion have ever embarked upon!

• Language: English
• Publisher: SD
• Release date: Apr 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215607473

Book preview

A Slacker’s Guide to Training Your Dog

a slacker’s guide to training your dog

From Puppyhood to Dog Sports, a Guide to Training Your Dog for New Pet Owners

sarah michaels

ridiculously simple books

Copyright © 2023 by Sarah Michaels

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

contents

Introduction

1. Understanding Your Dog

The Canine Mind

Breed-Specific Traits

Socialization and Early Experiences

2. Basic Dog Training Principles

Positive Reinforcement

Timing and Consistency

Setting Your Dog up for Success

3. Essential Commands

Sit

Stay

Down

Come

Leave It

Off

Heel

4. House Training

Crate Training

Establishing a Schedule

Signs Your Dog Needs to Go

Dealing with Accidents

5. Preventing and Addressing Behavior Problems

Biting and Nipping

Barking

Jumping

Chewing

Separation Anxiety

Aggression

6. Advanced Training

Loose-Leash Walking

Tricks and Games

Therapy and Service Dog Training

7. Dog Sports and Activities

A World of Pawsome Dog Sports Awaits!

So You Want to Try Agility? Let's Jump Into It!

Obedience Trials – The Canine Game of Simon Says

Dogs Living Life in the Fast Lane

Where Your Dog's Schnoz Steals the Show

Run, Fido, Run!

8. Maintaining Training Results

High Fives for Good Vibes – Reinforcing Good Behavior

Rolling with the (Furry) Punches – Adapting to Your Dog's Changing Needs

The Never-Ending Adventures of Doggo U – Continuing Education and Training Opportunities

9. Troubleshooting Common Training Issues

When Fido's Mind Wanders – Lack of Focus or Engagement

When Fido Goes Full Chicken – Fear or Anxiety

The Art of Doggy Stubbornness

When Training Hits a Wall (Or Plateau, Rather)

10. Health and Wellness Considerations

The Dynamic Duo of Nutrition and Exercise

Let's Get Mental! (Stimulation, That Is)

The Vet Is Your Pet's Best Bet

Spiffy Paws and Fluffy Tails

Conclusion

Appendix A: Recommended Resources

introduction

welcome and purpose of the book

Greetings, fellow dog enthusiasts! So, you've taken the plunge into the delightful world of dog ownership, and you're now on the hunt for tips and tricks to transform your adorable ball of fur into a well-behaved, model canine citizen. Well, you're in the right place!

This book is your trusty sidekick, providing you with everything you need to know about training your new best friend. As a new dog owner, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and mild panic as you realize you're now responsible for a living, breathing, and sometimes mischievous creature. But fear not, dear reader, we're here to make sure you're armed with all the know-how to tackle any dog-related challenge that comes your way.

Imagine a world where your four-legged companion knows just how to behave, whether it's during a leisurely walk in the park or a rambunctious play session at home. A world where your shoes remain unchewed, your guests are greeted without an overzealous jump, and your dog listens to your every command like the canine prodigy they truly are.

Does this utopia sound too good to be true? Well, hold onto your leashes, because this book is about to guide you on a journey to create that very reality. You'll learn essential training principles and techniques, along with all the tips you need to address those pesky behavior issues that even the most angelic dogs are prone to.

As we embark on this exciting adventure together, be prepared to laugh, learn, and maybe even shed a tear or two (though we promise they'll be tears of joy). By the end of our journey, you'll have gained the confidence and knowledge to help your furry friend become the best version of themselves.

Now, let's dive into the wonderful world of dog training, and may the wagging tails be ever in your favor!

benefits of training a dog

Picture this: You're strolling through the park, leash in hand, when suddenly, a squirrel dashes across your path. Your dog, instead of darting after the bushy-tailed intruder, calmly sits by your side, awaiting your next move. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? Well, buckle up, because that's just one of the many perks that come with training your canine companion.

Training your dog is like unlocking a treasure chest filled with paw-sitive experiences and a heap of mutual understanding. It's not just about getting your pup to sit, stay, and roll over on command; it's about strengthening the bond between the two of you, ensuring that both you and your dog lead happier, more fulfilling lives together.

One often-overlooked benefit of training is the improvement in your dog's overall safety. A well-trained pooch is less likely to wander off, dash into traffic, or get into altercations with other animals. Instead, your pup will understand their boundaries and be more in tune with you, making