A well-trained dog is not only good for you, but especially for the dog itself. Clear rules and boundaries make a dog feel safe and allow them to fully enjoy their life with you. But what exactly constitutes the foundation of good dog training ? And where do you, as an owner, begin?
In this blog post, we'll guide you step-by-step through the most important aspects. Whether you've just gotten a puppy or are adopting a rescue dog, you'll always get off to a good start with the same foundation.
🧠 1. Understand your dog's needs
A dog isn't a human. That sounds logical, but many parenting problems arise precisely because we "humanize" dogs. Dogs think and feel differently than we do. They need:
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Clarity and predictability
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Exercise and mental challenge
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Social interaction (with you and your peers)
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Safety and peace
Taking these basic needs seriously prevents many behavioral problems and frustration. A dog that feels safe and understood learns faster and stays more balanced.
🦴 2. Teach the most important basic commands first
You don't need to teach your dog 50 tricks to raise him well. A few essential commands are enough to ensure a pleasant life together:
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“Here” or “come” – so you can always call your dog back.
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“Sit” – useful for control in tense situations.
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“Stay” – to make your dog wait.
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“Loose” – to drop things safely.
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“No” – to stop behavior you don’t want.
Work on these basics first, and only once you've mastered them can you expand to other exercises. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes), fun, and positive!
🐶 3. Socialization: Getting to know the world
Socialization means introducing your dog to:
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Other dogs (different breeds and ages)
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People (adults, children, elderly)
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Various environments (forest, city, beach)
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Various sounds (traffic, fireworks, thunder)
The most important period for socialization for puppies is between 3 and 12 weeks of age. But older dogs can still learn, albeit with more patience.
Note: Avoiding overstimulation is just as important as exposure. Don't force anything and gradually build up new impressions.
💬 4. Communicate clearly and consistently
Dogs don't understand long sentences or explanations. They respond to:
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Your body language
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Your use of voice
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Your energy and emotions
So be clear, concise, and consistent . For example:
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Always say the same word for the same behavior ("sit," not "sit" one time and "go sit" the next time).
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Reward desired behavior immediately (within 1-2 seconds).
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Correct in a calm, fair manner without shouting or using physical force.
Inconsistent communication makes your dog insecure — and insecurity can lead to unwanted behavior.
🍖 5. Use positive reinforcement
The most effective and animal-friendly training method is working with rewards . Rewards motivate your dog to repeat behavior. Rewards can include:
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Food treats
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Compliments ("good boy!" in a cheerful voice)
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Attention (for example a pat)
Negative punishment (such as ignoring or taking away something fun) can also be effective, but always without adding fear or pain. Dogs learn best in a positive environment .
🐕🦺 6. Set clear rules — from day one
What a dog learns sticks. Therefore, be clear from day one about what's and isn't allowed. For example:
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Is the dog allowed on the couch? Then it's always allowed. If not, then never.
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Is he allowed to pull on the leash? Then you must correct that immediately.
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Is he allowed to beg at the table? Decide and stick to it.
A rule that applies today but doesn't tomorrow makes your dog insecure. Rules provide security , not restriction.
🕰️ 7. Be patient — parenting takes time
Training your dog is a process of trial and error. There are days when everything goes smoothly, and days when you think, "What am I doing wrong?" That's normal.
Important reminders:
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Don't expect your dog to understand everything within a week.
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Four small steps forward.
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Be patient, calm and positive, even if your dog "forgets" something.
Parenting is a process , not a destination.
🏠 8. Create a safe home base
A dog needs a safe place to retreat to. This could be a crate, a bed, or a quiet corner. The benefits:
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Your dog has his own place to relax.
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It prevents him from overstimulating himself.
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It helps with training for being home alone.
Make this spot extra special with a soft pillow, some toys and water nearby.
📚 9. Take a puppy class or dog training course
Training yourself is great , but a good puppy course or basic training offers:
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Professional guidance
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Social learning moments for your dog
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Contact with other owners (for tips and support)
Choose a dog training school that uses positive training methods and small groups, so you get plenty of personal attention.
🔥 Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Even with the best intentions, many owners make mistakes that complicate training. Do you recognize yourself in this?
| Wrong | What works better |
|---|---|
| Irregular rules | Always be consistent |
| Getting angry after a mistake | Ignore or correct calmly, reward desired behavior |
| Training for too long | Keep sessions short and end on a positive note |
| Expecting the dog to "know what you mean" | Learn step by step with clear instructions |
🐾 Summary: The Foundation of Success
Good dog training revolves around:
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Understanding and respect for your dog as an animal
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Communicate consistently and clearly
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Positive training and rewarding
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Patience and perseverance
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Creating a safe, stable environment
Give your dog this foundation and you will see: you will get a cheerful, stable and happy dog in return.
Because ultimately, every dog wants just one thing: to live a beautiful life with you . ❤️🐕
