One activity I recommend for all dog owners is a basic obedience class. Taking the time to teach your dog cues such as come, sit and stay creates communication skills and improves your relationship with your pet.
Remember the pictures from my previous blog? My dogs could not have off leash fun if they did not understand how to come when I call them. A trained dog can go more places and have more fun.
Most beginning classes cover simple signals that are useful in everyday life. A simple sit can stop your dog from jumping on you or pulling on the leash. Come is a necessity and might save your dog’s life. The command stay keeps the dog stationary while you open doors and greet visitors.
Because we live with dogs we forget that they are not verbal. We have to teach them what our words mean. A good class will give you a system for establishing those communication skills.
I recommend reward based motivational training. It’s fun for you and the dogs, and it’s easy! I think some people avoid training because they think either the human or the dog won’t like it. Or it will change the pet’s personality. Motivational training enhances the bond and cultivates trust in each other. That is a relationship you will truly enjoy.