MSPCA-Angell Dog Training Series: Benefits of Training Your Dog

Welcome to the first installment of the MSPCA-Angell Dog Training blog series, a valuable resource created to empower dog owners with expert insights and guidance.

This new blog series is a collaboration with Angell’s esteemed Behavior team, spearheaded by Dr. Terri Bright, a highly respected authority in animal behavior. With over two decades of expertise in dog training and behavior modification, Dr. Bright leads a dedicated team of professionals committed to providing comprehensive and practical solutions. 

Through this ongoing series, Dr. Bright and her team delve into many common inquiries voiced by Angell clients, leveraging their profound knowledge and real-world experiences to offer informative and actionable advice. Stay tuned as we unveil a wealth of information to enhance the bond between you and your canine companion.

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What are the benefits of training your dog?

A dog is more than just a pet; it is a loyal companion that becomes integral to our households and lives. These faithful animals bring immense joy and love into our homes and form deep bonds with their human counterparts. However, beyond the affection and companionship they provide, all dog owners must understand and appreciate the importance of training. 

Training our canine companions ensures their safety and well-being and promotes harmonious coexistence within the household. By instilling good behavior through training, we can enhance the bond with our dogs while fostering a positive and enriching environment for the pets and their human families. Recognizing the significance of training is fundamental in cultivating a happy and fulfilling relationship with our beloved four-legged friends.

Dogs need help understanding where or how to exhibit their species-typical behaviors, such as chewing, marking, barking, and other characteristics. Without proper guidance, your beloved pet might see your couch as a suitable spot to chew through, the kitchen table as a convenient location to mark territory, and constant barking as a natural form of communication.

However, through deliberate training that encourages desired behaviors that align with your preferences, you can establish a balanced and serene environment where your dog’s needs and your household’s harmony are maintained. By teaching your dog to associate positive outcomes with behaviors you approve of, you pave the way for a tranquil coexistence where mutual understanding thrives.

Dedicated training can help you develop a strong bond with your canine companion, creating deep happiness and satisfaction. Imagine connecting with a dog, a creature of an entirely different species! Instructing them on even the most basic commands can trigger a significant change in the dynamics of your bond. Numerous dogs in our care have experienced traumas that make them fearful and hesitant. Nevertheless, by demonstrating consistent support and reinforcing positive behaviors, we can revolutionize our exchanges in ways that are beyond words.

Understanding the importance of having a well-trained dog responding to cues cannot be overstated, as it can save lives. A case in point is one of the MSPCA-Angell Rally Obedience program participants, who found herself in a harrowing situation. While walking her dog on a busy street, the dog suddenly slipped away and darted towards oncoming traffic. In a split second, the owner called out the dog’s name, a command ingrained through training sessions. Almost miraculously, the dog immediately halted, turned back, and swiftly returned to the owner’s side, obediently sitting down. This incredible display of responsiveness in a potentially dangerous scenario vividly demonstrates the critical role of training in safeguarding the dog’s well-being and that of its owner. 

Emphasizing the significance of instilling discipline in your furry companion cannot be understated. It ensures their safety and fosters a stronger bond between you and your pet. Lastly, engaging in training sessions with your dog can be a delightful experience filled with joy and accomplishment for both the pet and the owner. (In short, it’s wicked fun!)

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Want to register for training classes? Visit angell.org/dogtraining for more information on sessions in Boston, Waltham, Salem, and Methuen.