English Foxhounds are intelligent and brave dogs that, with proper guidance, can quickly absorb training sessions. They make excellent companions for runners and joggers, capable of running several miles without a break. These breeds need a firm trainer who can provide consistent training. With the right training, they will follow every command their owner gives.
Training your dog requires time, patience, and affection. To ensure your dog is well-behaved and fully trained, thorough research about them is necessary. In this article, you’ll learn more about the training techniques and methods suitable for your English Foxhound.
When to Train an English Foxhound
Training for English Foxhound should begin when they’re around 8 weeks old or as soon as they arrive home. Start with basic commands like “sit,” “go,” and “come.” Begin early potty training and socialization to establish a solid foundation.
As they grow, progressively increase their training level and begin advanced training. Ensure they’ve mastered all the basics before starting advanced training. This can be done when they’re about 4 months old, introducing agility, dog sports, and games.
Where to Train an English Foxhound
While there are various places to train these breeds, home is the best place for basic training. As a new family member, they’ll learn better in a friendly environment. This training can be conducted indoors in large open areas. English Foxhounds can easily get distracted by birds and other animals, so begin focus training indoors before introducing them to outdoor environments.
For their advanced training, take them to wider spaces like a backyard, park, garage, or front porch. At this stage, English Foxhounds are more focused, making outdoors training more suitable. If you’re finding it difficult to train them, consider enrolling them in a training center.
Defining Tasks for an English Foxhound
Aside from training, defining tasks can be challenging when coaching an English Foxhound. Stay calm and gentle when assigning tasks. Initially, make their tasks simple and uncomplicated. For example, demonstrate what you’re teaching them and then upgrade your lesson by showing hand gestures. Reward them with a treat or their favorite toy when they complete the task. These techniques help clarify tasks while making training sessions enjoyable and easy.
Training Process
Positive Reinforcement: This easy yet effective method simply involves showing positive and kind behavior with patience. This approach helps to make training effortless, build communication, and keep them motivated. Avoid any form of punishment as it can backfire or affect their mental health.
Socialization: It’s essential to socialize your dog from an early stage, especially if you own other pets. English Foxhounds are friendly and affectionate breeds, but without proper socialization, they may not develop good manners. Socialization also boosts their confidence, reduces shyness around strangers, and helps them behave well in public.
Clicker Training: This is a digital form of training where the owner uses a device that makes a “click” sound when pressed. During training, assign a task or command to your English Foxhound and click the device when they perform the task correctly. Instead of giving treats, the “click” sound serves as their reward. This method is useful for these breeds as they can easily become overweight.
Leash Training: English Foxhounds should be leash-trained for outdoor activities. Start leash training at an early age for easier management when they’re grown. Familiarize them with the leash and collar indoors. Before taking them out, practice leash walking inside your house for the safety of both your dog and others.
