Most Pointers are intelligent, affectionate dogs that are very eager to please. As a general rule, these traits often make basic Pointer obedience training easier than training many other dogs. However, that’s not to say that Pointer training isn’t essential, because it is. After all, you really don’t want a strong, energetic 75-pound dog dragging you down the street during what should be a pleasant, relaxing walk. Pointer obedience training isn’t all for your benefit, either. It will help your Pointer become a well-adjusted member of your family by teaching him how to react to specific commands. And, if your dog is prone to running out into the street, basic obedience training just might save his life.
The techniques used for training Pointers aren’t really any different than you would use for training any other dog, but they need to be consistently applied. Before we take you through how to teach your Pointer a few basic obedience commands, let’s discuss a few general principles that can make your training easier and more successful.
Always remember that immediate feedback is essential during your Pointer dog training. Consistently praise or reward him as soon as he does what you ask, and correct him (but gently!) instantly when he does something wrong. Never shout or strike your Pointer. He needs and wants your acceptance, so positive reinforcement is much more effective than punishment. Practice is the key to successfully training Pointers, so spend a few minutes on your Pointer obedience training every day. Training sessions should be short so his attention doesn’t wander off, and held inside the house so he won’t be distracted.
Now, on to teaching your dog some basic Pointer obedience commands! The four commands most experts consider essential are sit, stay, heel and come.
The “Sit” Command
Teaching your dog to sit on command is the logical place to begin your basic Pointer obedience training. It’s easy for your dog to learn, and he’ll gain the confidence he’ll need to master trickier commands.
As soon as you notice your dog’s about to sit, say “sit” in a firm but calm tone. Praise him and give him a treat as soon as he sits. The immediate positive reinforcement will build a mental association between your verbal command and the act of sitting. Pointers are smart, and he’ll make the connection after a few repetitions. If he doesn’t, get a treat and hold it in your hand. Say “sit” while your dog is standing, then pass the treat from in front of his nose to just over his head. He’ll follow the treat up with his nose and then drop into a sit. Give him the treat and praise him effusively as soon as he sits.
The “Stay” Command
Training your Pointer to stay can be a bit more difficult. Begin with your dog sitting in front of you. Say “stay” in your firm but calm “training voice.” If he’s still sitting a few seconds later, praise him and give him a treat. You’ll need to repeat this frequently, gradually lengthening the length of the “stay.” As with the “sit” command, your Pointer will make the mental association between your verbal command and the act of staying in position. If he breaks the stay before you release him, remain calm, say “no” and start over. Once he thoroughly understands the command, you can lengthen the distance between you.
The “Come” Command
Opinions are divided whether “stay” or “come” is the most important basic obedience command. Both can be important for your Pointer’s safety.
Begin teaching your Pointer to come by rewarding him whenever he comes to you, whether or not you asked him to. This sets the stage by making coming to you a pleasant experience. Next, make your dog sit and stay, kneel down in front of him, and say his name followed by the word “come.” Give him praise and a treat as soon as he comes to you. Repeat this for several days until he makes the connection.
The “Heel” Command
This command can be a back-saver if your Pointer pulls during walks. It must be taught slowly, however, because it’s difficult to master. The goal is to have your dog walk calmly beside you, alongside your knee. The key is to get and hold your Pointer’s attention. Start by putting him on the leash and then having him stand beside your left leg. You should both be facing the same way. Hold a treat in your left hand, but not near his nose. Say his name and then the word “heel.” He’ll probably look at you, and as soon as he does, walk two steps forward. Reward him immediately if he moves forward with you in the heel position. You’ll need to repeat this many times, making sure he only gets the treat if he stays in the heel position. Stop walking and start over if he lags behind or forges ahead. You can gradually lengthen the distance you walk each time he heels properly on your command, but keep giving him the treats until you’re certain he understands.
Teaching your dog these four basic Pointer obedience commands will get his training off to a good start. They also are effective for teaching him to respond promptly when doing so is crucial, such as when he’s about to run out into a busy street. Be consistent and firm during your training, but always treat your Pointer kindly and with respect.