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Training a Bernese Mountain Dog to be obedient requires patience and dedication, but it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion. Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but can also be stubborn and strong-willed. Therefore, it is important to establish a strong and respectful bond with your dog and use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. In this article, we will discuss 12 secrets for teaching a Bernese Mountain Dog obedience, including tips on training methods, exercise, and socialization to help your dog become a well-behaved member of your family.
⚠️ Note: While the tips below should get you on your way, they are not a substitute for a professional puppy training course. Consider researching an online training program (we like SpiritDog’s Perfect Obedience course and K9 Institute’s Masterclass)
1. Start Your Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Early
One of the most important secrets to successful puppy training is to start early. It’s never too early to begin teaching your puppy basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Early training helps to establish clear boundaries and expectations, making it easier for your puppy to learn good behavior.
2. With a v Puppy, Consistency is Key
Consistency is crucial when it comes to puppy training. Ensure that everyone in your household is on the same page and using the same commands and rewards. This helps your Bernese Mountain Dog puppy understand the desired behavior and avoid confusion. Remember, consistency in your approach, schedule, and expectations will pave the way for a well-trained canine companion.
3. Positive Reinforcement with Your Bernese Mountain Dog
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in puppy obedience training. It involves rewarding your Bernese Mountain Dog with praise, treats, or playtime whenever they exhibit the desired behavior. This approach helps your puppy associate good behavior with positive outcomes, making them more likely to repeat the action in the future.
4. Keep Training Sessions with Your Bernese Mountain Dog Short and Sweet
Puppies have a limited attention span, so it’s essential to keep training sessions short and engaging. Aim for 10-15 minute sessions, 2-3 times a day. This ensures your Bernese Mountain Dog remains focused and retains the information better. Remember, quality over quantity is the key to successful training sessions.
5. Use Clear, Simple Commands with Your Bernese Mountain Dog
When teaching your Bernese Mountain Dog obedience, use clear and simple commands that are easy for them to understand. Avoid using multiple words for the same command, as this can confuse your puppy. Stick to one-word commands like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “come” for better results.
6. Be Patient with Your Bernese Mountain Dog
Patience is an essential virtue when it comes to puppy training. Remember, your Bernese Mountain Dog is still learning and might not get everything right away. Stay calm and composed during training sessions, and give your puppy the time they need to grasp new commands. Keep in mind that every puppy is different, and some may take longer to learn than others.
7. Socialize Your Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy
Socialization is a critical aspect of puppy obedience training. Expose your Bernese Mountain Dog to various environments, people, and other animals to help them develop confidence and learn appropriate behavior in different situations. Proper socialization can help prevent behavioral issues like aggression and fearfulness in the future.
8. Redirect Unwanted Behaviors
Instead of punishing your Bernese Mountain Dog for unwanted behaviors, redirect them towards a positive alternative. For example, if your puppy is biting on furniture or shoes, offer them a chew toy instead. This approach not only discourages negative behavior but also helps your puppy understand the appropriate outlets for their energy and instincts.
9. Set Realistic Expectations
It’s essential to set realistic expectations for your puppy’s progress in obedience training. Remember, puppies learn at different paces, and expecting too much too soon can lead to frustration for both you and your Bernese Mountain Dog. Be prepared to invest time and effort in training and celebrate small milestones along the way.
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10. Avoid Punishment-Based Training
Punishment-based training techniques, like yelling or physical punishment, can damage the bond between you and your Bernese Mountain Dog and hinder their learning process. Focus on positive reinforcement and redirection to foster a trusting relationship with your puppy and encourage long-lasting good behavior.
11. Teach Your Bernese Mountain Dog the “Leave It” and “Drop It” Commands
Two essential commands for any Bernese Mountain Dog puppy are “leave it” and “drop it.” These commands help prevent your puppy from picking up dangerous or unwanted items, and they can save their life in certain situations. Start by teaching “leave it” to instruct your puppy not to touch something, and follow with “drop it” for situations where your puppy has already picked up an object they shouldn’t have. Be patient and use positive reinforcement to help your puppy grasp these crucial commands.
12. Try Using an Online Dog Training Course
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may encounter challenges in teaching your Bernese Mountain Dog puppy obedience. In such cases, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can provide valuable guidance and customized training techniques tailored to your puppy’s needs. Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help and doing so can significantly benefit both you and your puppy.
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Perfect Obedience” Course
The Perfect Dog Obedience Bundle is an online dog training program designed to help dog owners achieve well-behaved pets. The comprehensive course covers basic obedience, loose leash walking, and includes bonus mini-courses on training habits and rewards, stopping jumping, and separation anxiety solutions. With lifetime access to expert trainers for personalized feedback and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this course aims to provide effective, accessible training for a variety of dog behavior issues.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just an obedience course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, teaching obedience to a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for both the owner and the dog. By utilizing the 12 secrets outlined in this article, owners can establish a strong bond with their Bernese Mountain Dog and help them become well-behaved members of the family. It is important to remember that training takes patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By setting clear expectations, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and rewarding good behavior, owners can ensure that their Bernese Mountain Dog is a happy and obedient companion for many years to come.
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