Getting to know your Boerboel’s unique traits sets you up for success. These dogs are known for their devotion and flair for protecting their family, like having your own lovable but firm bodyguard. Knowing their strong-willed nature helps set the path for training as it demands a blend of respect and goodwill from both sides.
Grasping your dog’s attention starts with building trust. They need to see you as a leader worth following, not just a bossy figure. Trust forms the core of teaching any command. Think of it as the glue holding all your training efforts together. Without it, even the most well-planned lessons can crumble.
Establishing yourself as a confident leader doesn’t mean being harsh. It’s about setting clear rules and boundaries calmly and consistently. Boerboels are smart cookies; they thrive on this clarity and it sets the stage for all the commands you plan on teaching. When they know who’s in charge, they feel safe and ready to learn.
Let’s talk motivation. Treat your Boerboel like they’re attending a fun class rather than boot camp. Keep the sessions engaging with treats or toys. Boerboels are eager students when there’s something in it for them, and rewarding their efforts makes each new command a ‘win’ for both of you.
Lay this groundwork properly, and you’re not just teaching commands; you’re shaping a lifelong partner. When respect and leadership are established, everything else in training falls into place effortlessly. It’s the first step towards turning your pooch into a well-behaved companion who listens and respects you.
The 7 Crucial Boerboel Commands: Why and How to Teach Them
Boerboels, with their loyalty and protective nature, are ace candidates for learning essential commands that ensure harmony both inside and outside the home. These big-hearted companions need to grasp the seven most vital commands to shine in their roles.
The command ‘Sit’ often serves as their very first lesson. It’s straightforward and lays the groundwork for teaching focus and patience. To teach it, use a treat to guide your dog’s nose up and back until their bums hit the ground. Simple, right?
‘Stay’ is next on deck. It’s about getting your Boerboel to park themselves in one spot, even if temptation beckons elsewhere. Start slow and reward them for each successful attempt, extending the time gradually to master this skill.
Getting them to come when called is an absolute must. ‘Come’ not only keeps them safe but also strengthens the bond you share as they learn to rely on your guidance. Calling them excitedly and using treats helps them associate this command with positivity.
The ‘Heel’ command is a game-changer, especially with a breed known for its strength. It keeps your Boerboel walking by your side, making strolls a breeze. Use a treat and lots of praise to keep them close and focused on you during walks.
When it’s time to get down to business, ‘Down’ is your go-to. Encouraging your Boerboel to lie down, especially in high-energy moments, can have a calming effect. Use a treat in hand, bring it down to the floor, and reward them once they’re lying flat.
The ‘Leave It’ command is your ticket to preventing your curious Boerboel from chomping on something they shouldn’t. Begin with a treat in each hand—one as the lure, and one for the reward. Wait for them to look away on cue and then reward their decision to resist.
‘Off’ rounds out our list, perfect for when your big buddy decides that your couch is their throne or leaps in excitement but needs to leave something alone. Redirect their attention with a clear ‘Off’, followed by praise when they comply, ensuring that your living space stays orderly.
Teaching these commands isn’t just about obedience—it’s about enhancing your dog’s life quality and ensuring they’re equipped to handle the world calmly and confidently. Opt for patience and consistency to shape your Boerboel into the well-behaved protector they’re destined to be.
Strategizing Command Order: Building a Successful Training Regimen
Sequencing commands is about laying down tracks your Boerboel can easily follow. It’s like teaching them a new language, word by word, making sure each block builds on the last. Understanding how to layer these commands ensures your training doesn’t hit a brick wall.
Start with easy wins like ‘Sit’ and ‘Down’. These commands teach basic control and are generally the easiest for Boerboels to catch onto. They get the ball rolling and help build a sense of achievement for your pup, encouraging them to tackle more challenging tasks.
Once the basics are in place, mix in ‘Come’ and ‘Stay’. These pair well together, reinforcing your dog’s ability to follow you and maintain a position when needed. Consistency in practicing these commands daily solidifies them into your Boerboel’s routine, turning them from simple cues into instinctive actions.
Commands like ‘Heel’ and ‘Leave It’ can then be introduced. These are crucial for safety and manageability, especially when you’re out on walks. Reward-based reinforcement keeps these training sessions lively and engaging. It’s more about showing your dog that good behavior brings good things.
Rounding off with ‘Off’ ensures you have control in the most chaotic moments. It’s your go-to for redirecting behavior, focusing attention where it should be. The timing here is everything; make sure to reward them immediately to cement understanding.
Align these lessons with your dog’s natural curiosity and attention span. Short and sweet training sessions are key, preventing burnout and keeping their excitement levels high. With each command, you’re essentially adding a new tool to your dog’s skillset, making their life and your lives better in multiple ways.
Remember, patience is your best strategy; every dog learns at their own pace. Tailor your training style to fit their personality. Celebrate their victories and keep frustration at bay by maintaining a calm demeanor.
Tackling Training Challenges: The Hardest Commands and Overcoming Them
Among the commands, some might feel like climbing a steep hill. Commands like ‘Stay’ or ‘Come’ are often noted for their deceptively simple logic but prove tricky when distractions abound. Ensuring your Boerboel holds their ground requires a blend of focus, patience, and consistent reinforcement.
Teaching ‘Stay’ challenges you to not just get your pup to stay put but also to extend the time they’re willing to hold that command. Start small, with manageable durations, rewarding their success every step of the way. Increasing the stakes gradually keeps your dog from feeling overwhelmed and encourages steady progress.
The ‘Come’ command tests your dog’s reliability under distraction. It’s easy when there’s nothing tempting them away, but it can feel herculean when there’s a squirrel or a favorite toy. Begin in low-distraction areas, building their response back to you with high-value treats or enthusiastic praise. Making yourself the most exciting option is key.
Every command you teach should be built on a foundation of patience. Recognizing when your Boerboel is struggling lets you adjust your approach accordingly. Sometimes, a command that’s second nature on a quiet afternoon might need reinforcement on a busy street.
The toughest part might be staying calm and persistent. Puppies misjudge, and alert, protective breeds like the Boerboel can be easily distracted by novelty. Keeping your cool while gently guiding them back to focus encourages them to keep trying. Small, rewarding victories can transform a challenging command into a mastered skill.
No two dogs are the same, and your Boerboel’s peculiar habits might mean some commands take a little extra time. Approach each session with an open mind and a sense of humor. Learn from each misstep and celebrate every success, big or small, because training is a journey, not a race.
Mike Brinkman,
Founder of BoerboelBootcamp.com