Dog Health Questions: Dog training? how long should i stick with a trick before teaching another one?

i have a 4 month old chihuahua i am training. yesterday was our first training day! within an hour she knew "sit" and "lay down". i thought i would just work on the these two tricks for a week and then add a new one. but i want to know how long before you add another one? any advice is great! thanks!!!

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Recommended Answer:
That varies from dog to dog. If your dog is really smart you can just keep adding new ones as soon as they master the one you teach them. The main thing is to keep training sessions to 5-15 minutes at a time and quit before your dog does. Keep it fun and make sure to refresh them on the "old" tricks they already know from time to time. Dogs love a challenge and as long as you don't cram to many "new" tricks before they learn the ones you're teaching you'll be fine. Have fun :)

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• Anytime you want. Just make sure you keep reinforcing the other commands you are giving her.
  Sounds like you are doing a great job.
  Keep it up!


• Congratulations on your new little girl, first of all.
  
  Second, the general idea amongst trainers regarding time is- there is no set time. BUT when you are 100% certain that your dog knows the first command and will perform it when you say to at least 90% of the time, you can add a new command. But, don't forget about the ones prior when teaching something new. And, if I may, you should always take into consideration the kind of dog you have (chihuahuas can be very difficult to train, btw- they are smart- but they are moody and tempermental, too), the age, and the physical ability (i.e. with older dogs, generally). A 4 month old chi an hour at a time is really the most you should give her in one day. And, dog obedience classes are always-always- good (for the socialization as much as the training).
  
  Just the fact that you asked indicates that you are going to be great working with her. Training can be frustrating at times, but it can be a lot of fun for both of you-and it is invaluable as far as bonding goes. Good luck to you both- may you have many happy years together.


• Here is a site with some great chihuahua training tips:
  
  http://www.chihuahuainfoonline.com/2009/…
  
  http://www.chihuahuainfoonline.com/2009/…