This article will show you the first steps you should take when beginning Staffordshire Bull Terrier Training. Follow this guide and you'll be on the right path to having an obedient, well trained, loyal Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog.

Step 1 - Establish Yourself As Pack Leader
It is important you do this from the very start. Dogs are pack animals, and your Staffie will regard you and your family as his pack. Whether you first meet your dog when he is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy or adult, you want to make it clear you are in control. This is as just as much a state of mind on your part as anything else. Remember that your dog does not get you to do anything, including giving affection, and that you must stay calm at all times.

Step 2 - Puppy Potty Training
Or if you have an adult Staffordshire Bull Terrier in need of toilet training you'll REALLY want to learn this! Watch your Staffie carefully and when it looks like he needs to go - circling, sniffing the floor - take him outside. If he goes, praise him heavily. Also take your Staffie out at times when he is likely to want to go, for example when he wakes up and after eating.

Step 3 - Collar & Leash,
Many dogs may not like wearing a collar and leash to begin with, so, if possible, get your Staffie used to it in the days before you take him for his first walk. Start by having him wear the collar around the house. When he's used to that attach the leash but don't hold onto it. Next get him to follow you while you hold the leash but don't pull on it. Then, when he's comfortable with that, you can gently guide him which way to go. Don't let him bite or chew the leash at any point.

Step 4 - No
During your Staffordshire Bull Terrier training your dog should pick up on what 'no' means as you guide him away from things he shouldn't be doing(make sure you are saying "no" at these times, of course!). If he's not getting it then try this: put a treat on the floor and walk past it with your Staffie on the leash. When he moves towards the treat pull his head away while saying 'no' and carry on walking. Occasionally say 'okay' and let him have the treat.

Step 5 - Coming When Called
This is another step that your Staffordshire Bull Terrier will probably pick up naturally during training. Simply call your dog's name followed by 'come!' and praise him heavily when he reaches you. Use it as often as you can, for example when you're going to feed him, play a game, or for anything else your Staffie will see as a good thing. Also try running away while calling him as Staffies HATE to be left behind! Never call your dog to you to scold him or for anything else negative: you want this to always be a good association for him.