Basic Training Points for the West Highland White Terrier

Most people are impressed immediately by the cute looks, fun optimism and perpetually positive attitude of the inimitable west highland white terrier. But despite the non-existence of the ratter westie nowadays, the westie’s terrier instincts is still very much within the dog. The westie was bred to hunt and “go-to-ground”, and one trait responsible for its sane and crazy adventures is its individualistic courage. Soon enough, all westie owners are bound to realize that they have a small dog brimming with a big dog attitude!

Another implication of their terrier roots is that their assertive nature needs to be understood and dealt with to anticipate potential behavior concerns. Many behavior issues crop up because of lack of companionship, discipline, activity, and exercise. Lastly, westies turn to destructive behavior when their separation anxiety tendencies are left unattended. Check out these ten quick tips on how you can help still more in westie training.

1. All dogs will benefit a lot from training, but the most efficient training happens in the puppy that starts with it at eight weeks of age. The time that you yourself will spend on inculcating westie basic manners and obedience skills need to be fun. If done properly, the routine will build a solid and lasting link between your dog and you as trainer.

2. Get help from a known private obedience instructor, training club, or school. “Test the waters” by sitting in on a class session.

3. Any dog training program that operates through the use of force or abuse is bound to fail or is failing already. The best training programs make use instead of a blend of reinforcements and corrections.

4. On the occasion of unacceptable behavior, reprimand promptly the dog. The best reinforcer is food, and it is sure to motivate your dog. Other means are praise, play and attention.

5. Be consistently just when it comes to disciplining your dog. Forgive as soon as you can. Lay off hitting or yelling at your dog.

6. Flood your dog with verbal praise and pats whenever it accomplishes what you wanted of it. Add a treat now and then to the praise.

7. Practice consistency and exude confidence in training the dog. The entire family needs to help teach also in the training program. But one person will be the most responsible for most of the training.

8. Despite the demands of training, try to have regular time for sessions of attention, affection, and play. Twenty minutes of training a few times a week, or ten minutes daily are all that it takes to keep you and your dog student enthusiastic for more learning.

9. These five basic training commands will be the building blocks of training westies: sit, stay, heel, down and come. A well trained westie makes a welcome presence anywhere it goes.

10. Training demands significant portions of your time and patience daily, but a sure reward for you is a responsible gentleman westie.