Pit Bull Training Tip of the Month:
The Secret Method of Professional Dog Trainers

If you were expecting some big secret tip I hate to disappoint you but one does not exist. Dog trainers work hard to be consistent and to stick to their plan with each dog they work with. Even if you have more than one dog you have it easier than dog trainers who deal with dozens of different dogs and personality types (humans included).

What makes a professional dog trainer different from you? Experience, education, and experience. The one positive about dealing with so many different dogs and personality types is they gain valuable experience. I know in my career I am constantly learning from the dogs (and people) that I work with. You can't buy this experience, you have to put in the work to gain it.

When I am working with a new trainer-in-training the four most important things I teach them are, Motiviation, focus, timing, and consistency. They flow in that order. You have to motivate your dog in order to get them to focus. You have to have great timing in order to teach them what you want them to learn and you have to be consistent to make sure they learn and continue to be reliable under different situations.

Daily practice of these four things is needed in order to maintain a great relationship with your dog. Now that I think about it, I guess there is a secret method professional dog trainers use to train dogs. It's sticking to these four keys and making sure they are well versed in the techniques they have decided to use. If you use a prong collar and leash corrections be sure to learn the correct and humane way to use those tools. If you use positive motivational methods then make sure you learn how to use those techniques correctly. Even if you use a shock collar you need to be well versed in the use of that tool by a professional who uses them properly. What ever method you use those four criteria apply equally.

Training your dog is a life long endeavour that will enhance the human/canine relationship. Do not rush it. Do not expect great things from your dog because you "think" they are capable of great things. Get them motivated, keep them focused, work on your timing, and be consistent and you will see results over the long haul.

Resources:
Where to find Great Gear for Your Pit Bull