Training a Finnish Lapphund can be an enriching experience. These weatherproof dogs, originally used as reindeer herders in the Arctic Circle, have a friendly and empathetic nature.
Here are 10 ways to help you successfully train your Finnish Lapphund.
1. Start Training Basic Commands
Training basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel from a young age is important for Finnish Lapphunds. These basic commands lay the foundation for future obedience and help establish a strong bond between the dog and its owner.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement Techniques
Using positive reinforcement techniques is the most effective way to train Finnish Lapphunds.
By rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, or play, you positively reinforce the desired actions, encouraging your Lapphund to repeat those behaviors in the future.
3. Provide Plenty of Mental Stimulation
Offering ample mental stimulation through training sessions is essential for Finnish Lapphunds due to their intelligence and eagerness to work with their owners.
Engaging their minds with training activities not only helps prevent boredom but also strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner.
4. Include Herding Instincts into Training
Incorporating herding activities or agility training into your Finnish Lapphund’s routine taps into their natural instincts and abilities.
These activities not only cater to their innate skills but also help keep them physically fit and mentally engaged, contributing to a well-rounded training regimen.
5. Socialize Your Puppy Early
By gently exposing them to a diverse range of people, places, and situations between 7 weeks and 4 months of age, you can help prevent the development of behavioral issues later in life, as this critical socialization period lays the foundation for a well-adjusted and confident dog.
6. Be Patient & Consistent
Patience and consistency are key when training Finnish Lapphunds. While these dogs can be independent and strong-willed at times, they are eager to please their owners.
7. Avoid Harsh Training Methods
Finnish Lapphunds are sensitive to harsh training methods and respond poorly to punishment or negative reinforcement. Instead, they thrive under positive reinforcement techniques, which encourage good behavior and strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner.
8. Practice Training in Short, Frequent Sessions
Finnish Lapphunds have a short attention span and can easily become bored if training sessions are too long.
Breaking training into short, frequent sessions keeps them engaged and focused, ensuring they remain motivated and receptive to new skills and commands.
9. Cheer with High-Value Treats
Finnish Lapphunds are highly motivated by high-value treats like Tibetan Dog Chew Puffs, which offer a unique combination of natural ingredients and appealing taste.
Using these treats during training can help stimulate their appetite and drive.
10. Be a Calm, Confident Leader
Establishing yourself as a fair, consistent leader will help your training be more effective. Make training an everyday part of your Lapphund’s life. It will improve your bond and make your dog more obedient in every area of their life.
Remember, Lapphunds thrive on companionship, so involve them in your daily activities and enjoy the journey of training together.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.