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Training a Saint
Bernard is actually a fun process. This breed is
extremely bright, willing to learn, and relaxed. As
with any new puppy, it is important to start with
basic commands, moving to the more complex training.
The key in training your Saint Bernard is to
understand that dogs learn best by making a
connection between cause and effect. In other words,
teach your puppy using positive reinforcement in the
form of praise and treats, immediately after he has
performed the desired command.
On the other hand,
when your Saint Bernard does not do what you want,
you need to correct him, using a firm voice but
never by spanking. Give him about 30 minutes to mull
over what he did or did not do, followed by taking
him through the correct steps so he is praised. The
goal is to teach your Saint Bernard to respond when
you give him a verbal command. Remember, this breed
is very smart so it will not be difficult.
You also want to use a specific tone of voice so
that every command is clearly understand. In other
words, you want your puppy to know exactly what you
want and then if he performed the task the right or
wrong way. When teaching your new dog simple
commands, make it easy by using one-word commands
such as Sit, Lie, and Stay. Otherwise, the training
will be more complicated, thus taking longer.
An excellent and effective way to correct your dog
when he does not obey is to hold his jowls with both
hands, firmly but not causing pain. Then, look him
square in the eyes while telling him “NO”. As you do
this repeatedly, your Saint Bernard will reach a
point when all you have to do is look at him while
telling him “NO”. Again, firmness will go much
further in the success of the training than
any type of physical reprimand.
During the first six months of your Saint Bernard
puppy’s life is the most important for the training
process. Of course, older dogs can also be trained
but the younger the better. In addition to teaching
your puppy commands, you are also teaching him what
behaviors for personality are accepted. As a result,
you end up with a loving, gentle dog, which is
essential, especially if you have children in the
home.
As soon as you bring your new Saint Bernard puppy
home, he will need to feel safe and secure. After
all, he has just been removed from his mother and
other siblings. Therefore, immediately provide him
with a crate, filled with a warm, comfortable
blanket and a few stuffed toys. We recommend you
give him a few days to settle in before starting the
training process. Then, start slow, working with
common commands. Typically, a Saint Bernard will
pick up things very quickly, leading to a
well-behaved dog that is a joy to be around.
See Also:
Saint Bernard Training
Saint Bernard Training
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