Democratic Sentinel, Volume 11, Number 19, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 10 June 1887 — How to Train Pet Dogs. [ARTICLE]

How to Train Pet Dogs.

“Lots of people who own dogs desire to train their pets, but they don’t understand how,” said a w’ell-known dog fancier to a New York reporter. “Yes, there are some rules about it. For instance, the training should be begun, if possible, when the dog is a pup'py, and about four months old, and the lessons should always be given in a quiet place with no one present but the teacher. In the training of your dog you should remember that you must endeavor to make him bend to your will by kindness, at the same time being firm and decided in all that you do. Use the whip sparingly, and never use it in anger. To teach him to lead place a string of about six or eight feet in length around his neck. The dog will endeavor to release himself, and you must stand still until he has ceased his struggles. This will teach him that he cannot get away, and then you can teach him to come to you. Stand off the length of the string, and say, ‘Come,’or‘Come here,’ using the same word or words every time, so as not to confuse him. When calling him at the same time pulling on the string gently. He will soon comprehend the meaning and obey whenever the words are used. When giving the lesson always pet and caress the dog whenever he does as you wish. It is also advisable to teach him at this time by some word or gesture, which will indicate that his study hour is over. To teach him to go or stop, place yourself in or near some place where you know’ he desires to go, and say ‘Go,’ urging him on by calling. When he has gone part of the distance, call, ‘Stop,’ at the same time pulling on the string and repeating the command. With patience and kindness you'will very soon make him understand and be obedient. The time required in this training varies according to the sagacity of the dog, usually being from one to two weeks. Never let the lesson occupy more than half an hour, and when through have some choice morsel to give him. Whilst making him fear you by sternness, teach him to attach himself to you by kindness. To teach him to ‘charge’ or ‘lie down,’ put your hand on his back and command him to ‘charge,’ at the same time placing him in position with his head between his forepaws. A few lessons will make him understand.”