The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home - Animal Shelter Donations

Training Tips
How to get the best out of your pet

Training your pet can be difficult, time-consuming and very frustrating. However, once the training is over, you will be left with a happy well-behaved member of the family who will give you many happy years of companionship.

Below are some tips to get you started.

Training dogs

  • The best way to train your dog is to join a local dog training club. Not only will your dog enjoy socialising with other dogs and people, but the dog trainers will be able to help you with any problem areas.
  • Teach your new pet the ground rules as soon as possible. He needs guidance to learn right from wrong but, once he knows the rules, he will be a happier dog!
  • Ensure your pet has a warm, comfortable bed out of any draughts. It is important he has his own place to sleep and to go to when he wants.
  • House training a dog need not be a chore. It can be fun and very rewarding! There are many books and websites on this subject and the staff of your re-homing centre will be only too pleased to help and offer advice – at every stage of the process!
  • Make sure your dog has its own food and water dishes and don’t let him eat from a spare plate. This sends him out the wrong signals and encourages bad habits.
  • Always keep your dog on a lead when outside, especially in built-up areas. Take the time to train your pet to come to you and then you can confidently and safely let him off the lead in a park or other open spaces secure in the knowledge that he will come back to you when called.

Training Cats

  • Cats also have to learn the ground rules – the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ of living with you. But this should be done gently and quietly – you will only upset your cat if you shout at him.
  • Do not let your cat use your furniture as a scratching post. Letting him outside to play can solve this problem. For indoor cats, buy them their own scratching post and/or provide toys to stimulate them.
  • Always have specific food dishes for your cat and keep them in the same place so that they know where their food will be. Cats do not always eat their food right away and will often only eat late at night.
  • A litter tray is important, even if your cat goes outside to relieve himself. Remember to clean the tray regularly as cats are very clean creatures and may not return to a dirty tray, preferring to use the floor instead!