How To Train A Pitbull- Secrets Of How To Train A Pit

Contrary to popular opinion, Pitbulls are not viscious by nature. In fact, with proper training, they can be extremely calm and docile in disposition.

They can be excelllent companions for the elderly, and terrific around young children.

As in often the case with large, "flat" sculled dogs, Pitbulls tend to be quite intelligent. Consequently, training can begin at a young age.

The "rule of thumb" is about 12 weeks for basic one word commands such as "No!" When Laura and I were learning how to train a Pitbull, we discovered the importance of consistancy. Each household member, including our 15 year old son, had to contribute to the training.

Cooperation from all members of the household was important when training our Pitbull, "Rocco", to be gentle. Each of us would give him a firm "NO" each time he attempted to jump on our legs. If a family member neglected to apply the command on a regular basis, it would confuse Rocco, and delay the training process.

Confusing your puppy is NOT how to train a Pitbull

One of the more remarkable things about Pitbulls is their ability to adapt to many situations. They are helpful in a large variety of professional fields as well as making wonderful companions.

Their intelligence, tenacity and general approach to life, makes them great dogs for such fields as search and rescue, therapy dogs, guide dogs, and police and military drug as well as bomb sniffers.

So when Laura and I were learning how to train a Pitbull, we discovered the following common traits:.

* High levels of exercise EVERY DAY

* A wonderful family dog

* A very "people loving" dog

* A dog that can be destructive to furniture or other objects if left alone

* An easy to train dog that can make a wonderful partner in agility, jogging, or other activities

* May not get along with other dogs, especially of the same sex

* A dog that you cannot leave unattended with other dogs, no matter how well they get along

* A pet that you may be unable to take to off-leash dog parks

As mentioned previously, Pitbulls, by nature are very "people" oriented. Consequently, they are quite loyal and loving to their owners.

Structured obedience training can begin at about 5 or 6 months, depending on the dog. We started "Rocco" at about 51/2 months.

When we were learning how to train a Pitbull, we were informed that the training sessions should be no longer than 10-15 minutes in duration.

It is best to conduct these sessions with the dog and just one of the owners. With only one owner present, the dog is not distracted. In addition, the Pitbull will recognize each owner as an "Alpha" leader, and give them appropriate respect.

Don't make the same mistake that Laura And I made with Rocco. We waited FAR too long before we attemted to train him. He had already adopted BAD habits that were tough to break. Definitely , learn how to train a Pitbull ASAP!