Introduction
Alaskan Malamutes are beautiful, intelligent, and loyal dogs. They are also very large and powerful, and can be quite stubborn. If you are thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute, it is important to be prepared for the challenges of training this breed.
Basic Training
The most important thing to remember when training an Alaskan Malamute is to be patient and consistent. These dogs are very smart, but they can also be very willful. It is important to start training your Malamute as soon as possible, and to be consistent with your commands.
Start with Basic Commands
The first commands you should teach your Malamute are “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” These are the most basic commands, and they will be the foundation for all of your future training.
To teach your Malamute “sit,” hold a treat in front of its nose and slowly move it up and over its head. As the dog follows the treat with its nose, its hindquarters will naturally lower to the ground. Once the dog is sitting, say “sit” and give it the treat. Repeat this process several times until the dog is consistently sitting when you give the command.
To teach your Malamute “stay,” say the command and then immediately take a step back. If the dog stays in place, give it a treat. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the amount of time you are away from the dog before giving it a treat.
To teach your Malamute “come,” say the command and then run a few steps away from the dog. If the dog comes to you, give it a treat. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the distance you run before giving the dog a treat.
To teach your Malamute “down,” kneel down in front of the dog and place your hand on its back. Say the command “down” and gently push the dog’s hindquarters down to the ground. Once the dog is in a down position, give it a treat. Repeat this process several times until the dog is consistently lying down when you give the command.
Advanced Training
Once your Malamute has mastered the basic commands, you can start working on more advanced training. Some popular advanced commands include “heel,” “fetch,” “drop it,” and “leave it.”
To teach your Malamute “heel,” start by walking alongside it with your hand on its collar. As you walk, say the command “heel” and gently nudge the dog with your hand to keep it close to your side. Once the dog is walking next to you calmly and consistently, you can start phasing out the use of your hand.
To teach your Malamute “fetch,” throw a toy for the dog and then say the command “fetch.” If the dog brings the toy back to you, give it a treat. Repeat this process several times until the dog is consistently bringing the toy back to you when you give the command.
To teach your Malamute “drop it,” take a toy from the dog and then say the command “drop it.” If the dog drops the toy, give it a treat. Repeat this process several times until the dog is consistently dropping the toy when you give the command.
To teach your Malamute “leave it,” place a treat on the ground in front of the dog and then say the command “leave it.” If the dog does not touch the treat, give it a treat from your hand. Repeat this process several times until the dog is consistently ignoring the treat on the ground when you give the command.
Socialization
In addition to training your Malamute, it is also important to socialize it with other people and animals. This will help to ensure that your dog is well-behaved and friendly in all situations.
Start by taking your Malamute to a quiet park or other public place and letting it interact with other people and dogs. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and to praise it for good behavior.
If your Malamute is showing any signs of aggression, such as growling, barking, or lunging, it is important to seek professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist.
Conclusion
Training an Alaskan Malamute can be a challenge, but it is also a rewarding experience. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach your Malamute to be a well-behaved and loving member of your family.
