Dog training is one of the most important responsibilities of a pet parent. It strengthens the bond between you and your dog, builds trust, and ensures your furry companion behaves well in everyday situations. However, even the most well-meaning dog owners can make critical mistakes that hinder progress. If you're searching for the best dog training in North York, knowing what not to do is just as vital as learning effective techniques.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 mistakes dog owners commonly make during training — and more importantly, how to fix them. Whether you're raising a puppy or working with an older rescue dog, these insights will help you create a more successful training journey.
The Mistake
Using different words for the same command (e.g., “down” vs “lay down”) or allowing a behavior one day and punishing it the next leads to confusion.
The Fix
Consistency is key. Choose specific commands for each behavior and stick to them. Make sure all family members use the same language and enforce the same rules. For example, if you don't want your dog on the couch, no one in the house should allow it — not even once.
The Mistake
Many owners wait until behavioral issues arise or until the dog is older before starting training. Unfortunately, the longer you wait, the harder it can be to correct bad habits.
The Fix
Begin basic training as soon as your dog arrives home — even if it’s a young puppy. Teaching commands like sit, stay, and come can start as early as 8 weeks old. Early socialization and crate training are also crucial.
The Mistake
Some owners keep dogs isolated from people, other dogs, and different environments due to fear or lack of time. This often leads to anxiety, aggression, or fear-based behavior.
The Fix
Socialization should begin early and continue throughout your dog’s life. Expose your dog gradually to new sights, sounds, people, pets, and situations. Dog daycare services like Hello Pets Dog Daycare in North York are great for helping dogs develop positive social skills in a safe environment.
The Mistake
Yelling, leash jerks, or using aversive tools like shock collars may suppress behavior temporarily but damage your relationship with your dog.
The Fix
Use positive reinforcement: reward the behaviors you want to see more of with treats, toys, praise, or play. This method builds trust, enhances learning, and is backed by science. It’s also the foundation of all effective dog training in North York at Hello Pets.
The Mistake
Long training sessions can bore or frustrate your dog. On the flip side, not training at all or only once a week won’t bring results either.
The Fix
Keep training sessions short and focused — ideally 5 to 10 minutes, several times a day. Puppies and young dogs especially benefit from multiple mini-sessions to build retention and motivation.
The Mistake
Dog owners often expect their pets to learn instantly and may get discouraged when progress is slow.
The Fix
Patience is essential. Every dog learns at their own pace depending on age, breed, and past experiences. Celebrate small victories and remember that consistency, repetition, and time will bring lasting results.
The Mistake
If your dog jumps up and you respond by petting or talking to them, you’ve accidentally rewarded the behavior.
The Fix
Ignore unwanted behaviors when possible and redirect to something positive. For example, if your dog jumps to greet, turn away until all four paws are on the floor, then reward with attention or treats.
The Mistake
Assuming all dogs respond the same way to training can lead to frustration. Some breeds are naturally independent, while others are eager to please.
The Fix
Take time to learn about your dog’s breed characteristics and personality traits. Tailor training to what motivates them — be it food, play, or praise. If you’re not sure how to approach this, professional trainers at Hello Pets offer breed-specific and personalized dog training programs in North York.
The Mistake
Training in the living room is important, but if your dog can’t follow commands in public or distracting environments, they aren’t truly trained.
The Fix
Practice commands in different locations: at the park, on the street, or at a pet-friendly café. Generalization helps your dog understand that commands apply everywhere — not just at home.
The Mistake
Some behavioral issues — such as reactivity, aggression, or deep-seated fear — can’t be fixed with DIY training or YouTube videos.
The Fix
Know when to call in the pros. At Hello Pets, we provide customized dog training in North York that addresses your dog’s unique needs, whether it’s basic obedience or more complex behavior modification. Professional guidance can save time, prevent mistakes, and improve your dog’s quality of life.
Training can begin as early as 8 weeks old. The earlier you start, the better your dog will adapt to your household rules and social settings.
It depends on your dog’s age, breed, history, and the consistency of your training. Basic obedience can take a few weeks, while more complex behavioral training may take months.
Absolutely. Older dogs can learn new behaviors with the right approach and patience. In fact, many senior dogs excel with positive reinforcement.
We believe in science-based, force-free, positive reinforcement techniques. Our dog trainers in North York create personalized plans for puppies, adult dogs, and rescues.
Yes! At Hello Pets, we provide both in-home private sessions and group classes depending on your dog’s needs and your goals.
Training your dog isn’t just about teaching tricks — it’s about building trust, confidence, and communication. At Hello Pets, we take pride in helping North York dog parents raise well-mannered, happy companions using gentle and effective methods.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Explore our complete range of services like Dog Daycare, Dog Grooming, and cat grooming, cat daycare & boarding to support your pet’s overall well-being.
Whether you’re raising a rambunctious puppy or correcting a rescue dog’s habits, our experienced trainers are here to help.
Ready to get started with professional dog training in North York?
Contact Hello Pets today and let’s bring out the best in your furry friend.
📍 172 Sheppard Ave W, North York, ON
📞 (866) 533-3970
📧 info@hellopetsinc.com
Your pet deserves the best. And that starts with the right training.
