Chapter 12Pets & Animals

How do I train my dog?

Reward what you want the second it happens, ignore what you don't, and be boring more often than exciting. Five 5-minute sessions a day beats one 30-minute drill.

Follow-up questions

Best age to start?

The day they come home. Puppies learn fastest at 8–16 weeks, but old dogs learn plenty too.

Should I use a clicker?

It speeds learning by giving a precise 'yes' marker. A word ('yes!') works if you're consistent.

How do I stop pulling on leash?

Stop moving the second the leash tightens; move only when it's slack. Requires patience, works reliably.

Group class or private trainer?

Group class for socialization and basics; private for specific issues (reactivity, resource guarding).

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