15. How much training does a Mastiff need?
Description
This article is from the Mastiffs Breed FAQ, by mmcbee@access.mountain.net (Mike McBee) with numerous contributions by others.
15. How much training does a Mastiff need?
Because they are destined to be VERY large dogs, basic obedience
training should be a part of every Mastiff's upbringing.
Adequate socialization is an extremely important part of a puppy's
training. An unsocialized dog, of any breed, can become either
fearful or aggressive. A well socialized Mastiff is a stable
Mastiff.
Most Mastiffs are easy to train because they are so eager to
please, but they are generally more easily trained when young. A
puppy's brain develops very rapidly. New information is absorbed
at an astonishing rate as they learn from their environment. You
want to make certain that WHAT they learn is desirable; therefore,
you must guide them in their learning process. Also, just as inany
other breed, some individuals are stubborn, dominant, etc., and in
such cases the behavior pattern should be identified early and the
training adjusted appropriately to compensate for it.
Unless you plan to compete in conformation or obedience, basic
obedience is all your puppy really needs to become a valued family
companion. Basic obedience consists of: sit, down, stay, come,
walk on lead and proper socialization.
To find Obedience and Socialization classes, contact your local
Kennel Clubs and veterinarians. If you cannot locate classes, take
your puppy out often to places where it can meet people and other
dogs in a friendly atmosphere.
A Mastiff does not need protection training. A well socialized
Mastiff has, in essence, been taught what a normal situation is
and will be able to sense when something is wrong. Even the
gentlest Mastiff will protect its family if it is well socialized
and bonded to them.
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