a day, a dog can get a lot of benefit from being taught basic obedience, tricks and games. “Dogs are clever animals and are highly trainable. By helping them develop their thinking minds, you develop a stronger bond of working together.” The benefits of working together through training are many. Your dog becomes eager to listen to and work with you, is calmer and is not bored, so doesn’t have to look for other stimulation such as digging up the garden. STEP 5: SOCIAL SKILLS Dogs are social animals that thrive on regular interaction not only with people, but also with other dogs. Giving your pet a chance to sniff , lick, play and explore with other canines is crucial to his mental wellbeing, and Frankie says this all starts with socialising your puppy. “Socialising your dog is arguably the most important part of training,” she explains. “Like us, they aren’t going to like …show more content…
Socialising is not only meeting a variety of dogs at the dog park; socialising means meeting lots of dogs, other animals such as cats, young and older people, in various environments and over a long period of time.” However, it’s important for you to be with your dog and support her when meeting new dogs. Watch her body language and understand when she’s had enough. “I highly recommend joining your local dog club where you can join in puppy obedience, rally obedience or agility classes and learn to train your dog with a lot of other dogs and people around. This is a great way to let dogs work while being around other people and dogs in a controlled environment,” Frankie explains. Off -leash dog parks are also great places for your pet to make new friends and, if you want your dog to