'I'm a dog trainer - doing these five things will give you a better behaved pet'

Training a dog can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging tasks for any pet owner. With the right guidance, however, even the most unruly pups can learn to be well-behaved companions.

Dog behaviour is influenced by many factors, from breed to environment, but positive reinforcement is key. A little patience, consistency, and expert advice can go a long way in transforming your dog’s habits and improving their relationships with you.

Enter @southenddogtraining1, a dog expert who is helping dog owners across the globe through his TikTok videos. In his latest video, he shares five essential tips to ensure your dog behaves better, whether it's at home or during walks.

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Here's what you can do to make your pooch a model pet.

Five simple things anyone can follow to make their dog better behaved

1. Exercising

He says: "Exercise your dog properly. Dogs need a combination of breed fulfillment, mental and physical stimulation, not free running everyday. It would just make them adrenaline junkies and all junkies always need more."

He advises mixing up your dog's exercise routine by taking them to different locations and incorporating sniff walks. He also stresses the importance of structured street walks for maintaining good behaviour.

2. Post Exercise routine

After the dog is done exercising, put them in a bed or a crate to teach them to switch off. He said: "Many dogs struggle to switch off. They keep going and going and can develop anxiety based issues."

These issues may include excessive barking, destructive behaviour and separation anxiety. Ensuring they have quiet time after physical activity helps them relax and recharge, promoting a calmer environment.

3. Using an indoor training lead

He says: "So many people lose control of their dogs in their homes. They are allowed to pick up things, run away with them, jump at guests."

An indoor lead can help teach your dog boundaries and maintain control within the home. It is suggested to use an indoor lead until your dogs are trained.

4. Keep the dog in the bed when you are eating

According to him, sticking the dog in its bed when you are having a meal would "teach your dog to be respectful and calm around food and teach them massively how to behave."

Keeping your dog in their bed while you eat will not only curb begging but also reinforce boundaries around food.

5. Fuss your dog

It is important to fuss your dog when it does you like and something you asked it to do. "If your dog jumps up and you stroke it, it will jump, if your dog whines and you stroke, it will keep whining to get a fuss.

"Fuss your dog calmly when it does something you ask or something you like," he added. By calmly rewarding desired actions, you help reinforce good habits and improve their overall behaviour.

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