Local dog trainer reveals secrets to happy, well-behaved dogs
Training your dog is essential for a happy and balanced home.

Springs resident Mark Oberholzer, a professional dog trainer for over a decade, has tips and advice on training and caring for your fur baby.
Oberholzer emphasises that dog training is vital for these reasons:
• Safety: A well-trained dog is more likely to obey commands, lessening the risk of them running away or harming themselves or others.
• Behaviour: Training teaches dogs acceptable behaviours and how to interact correctly with people and other animals.
• Bonding: Training strengthens the bond between you and your dog by providing a structured way to communicate and interact.
• Enrichment: Training provides mental stimulation for your dog, which can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.
• Socialisation: Training classes help your dog socialise with other dogs and people, which is vital for their overall well-being.
• Confidence: Training can help your dog become more confident and well-adjusted, making them happier and more comfortable in various situations.
“Overall, training is a valuable investment in your dog’s health and happiness and can make a significant difference in your relationship with your dog.”
He says the best reason to train your dog with a professional trainer and not yourself is that they can provide expert guidance and personalised instruction tailored to your dog’s needs and temperament.
“Professional trainers have the knowledge and experience to identify and address behavioural issues effectively, ensuring a positive and rewarding training experience for you and your dog.”
Oberholzer says the best way to train a dog is through positive reinforcement.
“The reason is that it builds a strong and trusting relationship between you and your dog. Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding desired behaviours, creating a positive association with learning, and making training fun and enjoyable for both of you.
“This approach fosters a bond based on mutual respect and co-operation, leading to a happier and more fulfilling relationship with your dog.”
There is a difference between small and big dogs that goes beyond their physical appearances. These include:
Physical capabilities:
• Size and Strength: Big dogs need different handling techniques because of their size and strength. Commands like “Sit” and “Stay” need firm reinforcing to ensure compliance.
• Energy levels: Many large breeds are more energetic and need more exercise. Training sessions should incorporate activities that expend their energy, such as a game of fetch or agility courses.
Temperament:
• Breed predispositions: Some large breeds, like German shepherds, are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, breeds like Huskies, known for their independence, may need more patience and creative training methods.
• Small dog syndrome: Small dogs are often perceived as cute and harmless, leading to inconsistent training and a higher likelihood of developing behavioural issues like excessive barking or jumping.
Owner perception:
• Expectations: Small dog owners might have lower expectations for their dogs’ behaviour, leading to less consistent training and reinforcement.
• Handling: Often, people handle small dogs more gently, which can inadvertently reinforce unwanted behaviours.
“By understanding these differences and tailoring your training approach accordingly, you can effectively train your dog to be a well-behaved and happy companion, regardless of size.”
For more information about dog training, call Oberholzer on 082 782 6587.