Pet and parent bonding: training, toys and treats for your dog

PetSmart -

Learning the ropes

Imagine you just became the newest member of an established family in a foreign country. You don't speak the language and you don't know how to act or even what furniture you can sit on. This is how it is for your new pet. He really wants to know what to do, but he can't speak your language. So you need to learn his. Once you can talk to your pet in a way he understands, you can communicate the rules. It's one of the most caring things you can do for him, because a dog who knows his role and how to behave is happier and safer. You and your family will have more fun with him too. It's all part of building a better bond.

Pet-passionate pros
PetSmart® Accredited Pet Training Instructors are ready to help Pet Parents create happy families. Our caring instructors are trained in canine behavior, learning theory and problem solving. They'll teach you how to speak canine using an expert combination of cues and positive motivators that will effectively develop consistent behaviors in your pooch. We're so sure that you and your dog will love the techniques we teach that we make you our PetSmart Smart Pet Promise℠ of 100% satisfaction--or you can take the class again for free. Ask a PetSmart associate for program details.

Real-world learning
PetSmart Training Centers are located inside PetSmart, and training takes place throughout the store. Our in-store training environment allows us to teach your dog cues and behaviors amid distractions, just like in the real world. After all, the rules--and your relationship--extend beyond the four walls of your home.

Once you've mastered reward-based training techniques, you'll want to make positive reinforcement a daily habit at home. Make sure you have plenty of training treats on hand and that you're consistent, always getting the correct response before you reward him with a goody or "Good Boy!" You'll find that the bond between you grows through these quick, fun sessions.

Class acts for your canine
Dogs come in all sizes, ages and learning levels and so do PetSmart classes:

- Puppy Education
- Beginner Education
- Intermediate Education
- Advanced Education
- Click-a-trick Education

We also provide private instruction for your dog's specific needs. See a PetSmart Accredited Pet Training Instructor or associate to find out when a class is forming in a PetSmart store near you.

For more information
Visit training.petsmart.com to find more information on pet education, including classes, locations and other products to help you foster a healthy, happy relationship with your dog.

It's always playtime for dogs
We've talked about what needs to be done for your dog, but let's talk a little about what he brings into your life. Fun! He gets you up, gets you going and gets you out. When we become Pet Parents, our pets often bring out the kid in us. What can you give him in return? Toys and treats!

Fun and functional toys
Toys are more than a fun way to play games. They're important tools for your dog's training and social development. A solo play toy, like a Kong®, will keep him happy when you're not available and give him something to gnaw on as an outlet for his energy. Some toys are soft and cuddly, good companions for a nap. Others, like balls and flying discs, need your added energy to bring about the fun.

Toys, like dogs, come in all sizes and are made to fit different temperaments, from gentle to assertive. If you're picking out a chew or pull toy, make sure you get one equal to your dog's jay power. Luckily, it's just as much fun shopping for toys as it is giving them. Can't pick just one? Try a few at a time, then switch them out each week to keep him interested and content. If you want help picking out the perfect toy for your pet, you can always ask a fun-loving PetSmart associate. Or visit PetSmart's Dog Toy Buying Guide for help choosing the perfect toy.

Treats for taste and training
Naturally chewy treats, like rawhide, will keep your dog occupied for hours. Crunchy biscuits make good occasional treats, and also help clean his teeth. Choose nutritionally complete treats to help supplement your dog's healthy diet.

Small, yummy treats are good for immediate reinforcement to reward your pooch for good behavior. Make sure you reward him right away so he connects the action to the treat. And steer clear of giving too many treats, or he won't make an effort to receive them.

Check out PetSmart's Guide to Totally Tasty Treats for help choosing the rights treats for your dog.

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