10 Reasons Why Dog Training Is Important (2023 Guide)

As a dog parent…

Training your Fido’s one of your responsibilities.

You know that it’s necessary.

But sometimes…

It can test your patience.

As it’s easier said than done.

However, before giving up on the job…

Let me share with you reasons why you should keep trying.

Continue reading to discover:

• 10 epic reasons why you should train your dog.
• The right time to train and socialize your puppy.
• Things that can happen to dogs without training.
• And many more…

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Why is dog training important? Top 10 reasons

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#1: It improves communication

First, training your dog makes you understand them better. 

And vice versa.

How?

If you regularly teach your Fido commands, you’d be able to:

• Assess their abilities.
• Observe them closely.

Then after spending time with them…

You’d slowly pick up your dog’s body signals.

For example, you’d know if your pooch has trouble learning a new trick. 

And you can make the proper adjustments to match your dog’s pace.

Not only this, but you could also predict your Fido’s behavior and mood.

Which is vital both in your training and relationship.

You’ll have an idea of how they would act outside.

And you’ll also know how to control them in such situations.

“What about dogs?”

Canines learn through trial and error.

To know which behavior gets rewarded…

Dogs will try out many things.

Then they’ll observe their humans’ actions and faces.

Based on a study, a canine’s brain has a part made only for analyzing the latter.

And another research proves this.

It says that dogs know if a person’s happy or angry by looking at their face.

As well as listening to their voices.

So while training…

Your Fido will also learn your various:

• Speaking tones.
• Facial expressions.

Moreover, an average Fido can learn 100 words.

And by training your dog…

They’ll understand your language even more.

Your pooch will remember cues.

Plus, the common expressions you use, like “Oh!” and “Stop!”

From observing your reactions…

Your dog will learn what those words mean.

Thus, you’ll have a better way of communicating with them.

#2: It builds confidence

Whether in humans or dogs…

Trust in oneself is created, not innate.

And one of the best ways to build confidence in your Fido is by training them.

With every command that your dog learns…

They’ll have a sense of fulfillment.

It’s like the satisfaction you get when you finish a chore.

Or once you’ve passed a level in a game you’re playing.

So as the training goes on…

Your pooch will gain courage and trust themself more. As well as their environment.

Also, they’ll realize that the world around them’s safe as long as they obey the rules you set.

Fun fact: Did you know that this goes both ways? A study found that dog parents are more confident than those who don’t have pets. This is due to the trust of their Fidos or the positive reaction they get from people when seen with dogs.

#3: It keeps stress at bay

Boredom’s often the root of unwanted behaviors in dogs.

If they don’t have something to do all day…

They’ll find an outlet to release their energy.

Say chewing any objects they see or barking nonstop.

Then this will stress them out.

But since dogs need to use their minds and bodies while training…

It can keep them busy and content at the same time.

Which gives them no room for stress or anxiety.

As they’re occupied with enriching tasks like learning commands.

However, to achieve this…

You need to train your dog positively

This means rewarding your Fido when they behave well.

For example, shower them with praise or treats.

And avoid harsh methods if they don’t follow.

Based on research, punished dogs have higher ‘cortisol‘ levels than rewarded Fidos.

“What’s cortisol?”

It’s a hormone that the body releases when stressed.

It gives you more energy. Which can help you handle pressure.

But the downside is…

It can make your heart beat fast.

And too much of it may cause your dog to get overly excited.

So the study also found that punished Fidos panted a lot during training.

Check out also: 17 Clear Signs Of Dog Stress (Stressed Dog Body Language)

#4: It reinforces good behavior

Training your dog’s also important to teach them good manners.

It’s one of its primary purposes.

But like number #3…

This is only effective with rewards.

Let’s say you offer a treat or praise your Fido after they did a behavior you want.

Chances are, they’ll likely do it again as it gets rewarded.

Keep in mind that dogs remember things.

An expert even believes their mental abilities are similar to a 2-year-old kid.

Note: Punishing your dog will only make them scared of everything. So if you’d like to teach your dog, find a trainer who uses positive methods. Or you can also watch tutorial videos at home.

If you want to learn more, read this next: 27 Best Dog Trainers On YouTube (Updated Guide)

#5: It enhances self-control

Same with confidence…

Dogs also don’t have this trait when born.

They tend to act rashly. And will follow their instincts to get what they need.

For example, they’ll rush out the door to meet their Fido pals.

Or steal food off the counter because they’re hungry.

And they won’t know that what they did was unacceptable.

For them, it’s normal. As they only did those actions for survival.

Plus, there were no rules set yet.

But if you train your dog…

They’ll learn to be patient and control themself.

Say if you teach them how to “wait” and “stay.”

Note: One study shows that training prevents a dog from being out of control. The said issue’s often why many dogs are in shelters – especially Chihuahuas.

#6: It helps calm them down

If your dog knows the behavior you want and has self-control…

They’ll also learn to settle down.

And they’ll do this on their own or by command.

When trained properly…

It’s possible to tell your Fido to sit or lie down when they become too hyper.

This is because they know that being calm brings treats or affection.

You might also like: 101 Proven Ways To Calm Down A Dog (How-To Guide)

#7: It teaches new skills

Just like in humans…

Learning never ends in dogs.

Studies show that even senior Fidos can remember new tricks.

So regardless of age…

Dogs enjoy learning new things.

It gives them a different kind of pleasure.

Just like the feeling you get after reading a book, or solving a puzzle.

Through training, your dog will learn commands.

From easy to advanced ones. Say the basic “sit” to a harder cue like “spin.”

But besides tricks…

Dogs, especially working breeds, may also learn a job.

Before becoming house pets…

Some of our furry friends once retrieved small animals while hunting.

Meanwhile, others know how to sniff bombs. As well as illness.

So, find what your pooch does best.

Then train them further.

Plus, Fidos will also understand some of your words.

Which catches their interest. And adds to their vocabulary to communicate better with you.

Note: Most dogs can’t focus for long periods. So if you’re teaching them a new trick, keep each session 15 minutes long at most. Also, be consistent and train them one command at a time.

#8: It allows them to socialize with others properly

Lack of training causes excitable behaviors in dogs.

If they see a visitor or another Fido…

They’ll be anxious.

Plus, they may lunge and bark at them too.

And teaching your dog how to sit or stay in a corner can help reduce such behaviors.

But aside from verbal commands…

You can also enroll your Fido in a doggy daycare to learn how to act around others.

May it be a stranger or other canines.

Due to the frequent lessons…

They’ll get used to being in the same area with other dogs.

Plus, they’ll pick up good manners from their trainers. As well as other canines.

“How is this possible?”

Your Fido will learn that some dogs dislike certain actions.

Say sniffing them when they’re not in the mood. As well as sharing food.

Note: Vets say that you must socialize puppies at 7 weeks. Do this to prevent them from being fearful.

But ensure you get them dewormed first. Also, your pup should have been vaccinated once. 

At 6-8 weeks, experts say they must receive one for:

• Distemper.
• Parvovirus.
• Bordetella.

This is to prevent the spreading of diseases.

#9: It ensures everyone’s safety

Since training teaches self-control…

You can manage your Fido better.

And this helps you protect them. As well as yourself and everyone around your dog.

“But how?”

Think about this.

Teaching your dog to wait before going out the door keeps them safe from hazards outside.

They may chase cars or prey. Then get hit by a vehicle if not alert.

Also, while walking, you’ll have a less reactive Fido.

A trained dog won’t lunge at anyone they see on the streets.

So this ensures the safety of your dog, strangers, and other hounds.

Plus, your Fido will listen well to your commands.

Thus, you won’t get dragged by an uncontrollable pooch.

In short, dog training’s a win-win situation for all.

#10: It improves the human-dog bond

Lastly, training your Fido allows you to spend more time with them.

And as you interact with each other…

Did you know that you both release ‘oxytocin’?

Research says so.

People also call it the ‘love hormone.’

It helps strengthen bonds and makes you feel all fuzzy on the inside.

It’s like having butterflies in the tummy when you exchange gazes with someone you love.

Plus, you’re your dog’s favorite person.

So your Fido will enjoy every second with you.

Not only this…

But if you remember #1, training also improves communication.

And it’s one of the vital keys in a relationship.

If you understand your dog, you’ll know their likes and dislikes.

Your Fido will also know your desired behaviors.

So you both know how to interact with each other to keep a positive bond.

And you’ll know you can depend on your pooch.

Well. They aren’t called a ‘man’s best friend’ for nothing. 🙂