Boerboel training & socialisation tips.
Boerboels are powerful, intelligent, and loyal companions who benefit greatly from consistent training and socialisation. With plenty of love and guidance, you can help your Boerboel become a well-behaved and well-adjusted member of your family. With a breed as big and heavy as a Boerboel, it’s imperative to start the training early to ensure they grow up well-mannered and respectful. But remember; every dog is unique, so be flexible and attentive to your Boerboel’s specific personality and needs.
Start Early
Puppy training should start as soon as you get your Boerboel home. Early socialisation is crucial to help them become comfortable with various people, animals, and environments.
Positive Reinforcement
Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and toys, to reward good behaviour. This will help your Boerboel associate obedience and proper manners with positive outcomes.
Obedience Training
Basic obedience training is essential for Boerboels. Teach them commands such as waiting for their food, sit, stay, come, and heel. Consistent practice and patience are key to helping your Boerboel understand and follow these commands.
Stay consistent with your training methods and expectations. Boerboels, like many dogs, thrive on routine and structure. Consistent training will help them understand what is expected of them.
Expose your Boerboel to different sounds, sights, people, and animals to help them become well-adjusted and confident. However, be mindful of their strong protective instincts and be sure to introduce them to new experiences in a controlled and positive manner.
Introduce the lead and collar gradually to allow your Boerboel to become comfortable with wearing them. Start by letting them wear the collar or harness around the house before attaching the lead and venturing outside. Use treats or toys to encourage your Boerboel to walk forward while on the lead. By rewarding them for moving in the desired direction, you can help reinforce the behaviour of walking politely on the lead.
Start lead training in a calm and controlled environment, free from distractions. This can help your Boerboel focus on the training process without being overwhelmed by external stimuli. Keep lead training sessions short and engaging to prevent your Boerboel from becoming bored or frustrated. Short, frequent sessions can help maintain their interest and focus on the training process.
Supervision
When socialising your Boerboel with other dogs, always supervise the interactions to ensure they are positive and safe for all involved. Boerboels can be assertive, so it’s important to monitor their interactions to prevent any potential conflicts.
Gentle Leadership
Boerboels respond well to gentle and consistent leadership. Establish yourself as the pack leader while using positive reinforcement and gentle guidance to build trust and respect with your dog.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation
Boerboels are active and intelligent dogs that require both physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise and interactive toys or puzzles will help keep them mentally and physically engaged, reducing the likelihood of boredom-related behaviours.
Patience & Understanding
Training a Boerboel requires patience, understanding, and a calm demeanour. They are sensitive to their owner’s moods and attitudes, so it’s important to remain patient and calm during training sessions.
Professional Training
Participating in a class with your puppy can strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Working together as a team in a learning environment can enhance communication, trust, and mutual understanding, laying the groundwork for a strong and positive relationship. Weekly puppy classes also introduce you, the owner to a community of like-minded individuals who share the same love of dogs! Establishing connections with other puppy owners can provide ongoing support, advice, and camaraderie as you navigate the joys and challenges of puppyhood together!
The above information and guidance can be used with any breed of dog, however, it is advisable to understand the personality traits of your breed of dog, as different breeds react in different ways and you may need to tailor your training approach.