As a proud owner of an American Bobtail, you may have already discovered what an intelligent, curious, and affectionate companion they can be. However, if you haven’t yet taught your Bobtail basic commands like “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come,” you may be missing out on an opportunity to strengthen your bond and improve your communication. Training a cat can seem daunting, but with the right approach and a little bit of patience, you can teach your American Bobtail these important skills. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step guidance and helpful tips for successful training sessions. So let’s get started!
Training Tips
When it comes to training your American Bobtail, there are a few tips that can help make the process smoother and more effective. Consistency is key, as well as keeping the training sessions positive and fun for both you and your feline friend. Using positive reinforcement, starting with short sessions, and making sure to keep things interesting are all important factors to consider. Additionally, there are some helpful resources available, such as clicker training, understanding your cat’s body language (check our previous article!), and learning about the benefits of reward training (check our previous article!). Let’s take a closer look at these training tips in more detail.
Start with Short Sessions
One of the most important tips when it comes to training your American Bobtail basic commands is to start with short sessions. You don’t want to overwhelm your cat with too much information or training at once. Short sessions, of around 10-15 minutes, will help your cat stay focused and engaged in the process.
To make it easier for you to plan these sessions, here is a handy html table with the recommended frequency and duration of each training session:
| Type of Command | Frequency per Week | Duration per Session |
|---|---|---|
| Sit | 4-5 | 10-15 minutes |
| Stay | 4-5 | 10-15 minutes |
| Come | 4-5 | 10-15 minutes |
In these sessions, you should focus on one command at a time. This will help your American Bobtail understand what is expected of them and prevent confusion. Additionally, keeping the sessions short and sweet will help you maintain your cat’s attention and focus.
As we mentioned in the introduction to American Bobtail training, it is important to remember that cats have their own personalities and learning styles. Some American Bobtails may pick up commands quickly, while others may require more time and patience. If your cat is showing signs of frustration or disinterest, it is important to take a break and come back to training later.
By starting with short sessions, you will be setting your American Bobtail up for success in their training journey.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Using positive reinforcement is the most effective way to teach your American Bobtail basic commands. This involves rewarding your cat for good behavior, rather than punishing them for bad behavior. Punishing your cat can lead to fear and aggression towards you, while using positive reinforcement creates a bond between you and your furry friend, as well as encourages good behavior.
Examples of positive reinforcement include verbal praise, treats, and playtime. When your American Bobtail does something you want them to do, such as sitting or coming to you, immediately reward them with praise and/or a treat. This will reinforce the behavior and they will be more likely to repeat it.
It’s important to note that rewards should be appropriate and small, as too much food can lead to obesity in cats. Additionally, the reward should be given immediately after the desired behavior occurs, so your American Bobtail understands exactly what they are being rewarded for.
Using positive reinforcement also means ignoring bad behavior, rather than punishing it. By ignoring unwanted behavior and only rewarding good behavior, your cat will learn that they are more likely to receive attention and rewards when they are behaving properly.
Remember to stay patient and consistent with your training, as it can take time for your American Bobtail to learn new commands. By using positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior, your cat will be more eager to learn and excited to please you.
Be Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to teaching your American Bobtail basic commands. Using the same cues, rewards, and methods every time you train will help reinforce good behavior and prevent confusion. To help you stay consistent, create a training routine and stick to it. This routine should include the same time, place, and duration for each training session.
It’s also important to use the same rewards and praise every time your American Bobtail successfully performs the command you are working on. This could be a treat, a favorite toy, or verbal praise. Consistency in rewards will help your cat understand what behavior is desirable.
Take note that consistency also means keeping your training sessions as short and frequent as possible. It’s better to have several short sessions throughout the day than one long session. Keep in mind that the length of the session should match the attention span of your American Bobtail.
To achieve consistency, it may also be helpful to use visual aids such as hand signals for commands so that the command is clear and consistent every time it is given. Make sure that each member of your household who trains your cat is also on board with the same commands and procedures.
By maintaining consistency in all aspects of training, you will achieve better results and make training a positive experience for both you and your American Bobtail.
Keep it Fun and Positive
One of the most important aspects of training your American Bobtail is to keep it fun and positive. Cats, like dogs, respond well to positive reinforcement and will be more motivated to learn if the process is enjoyable. In fact, training can be a great bonding experience for you and your cat! In order to keep training sessions upbeat and lively, consider incorporating some of the following tips:
| Use Treats: Reward your cat with small, tasty treats when they successfully complete a command. This will help motivate them to learn and make them feel good about the process. | American Bobtail kittens might be especially motivated by treats, as they are still developing their skills and may not yet have a strong attention span. |
| Use Toys: Use interactive toys to keep your cat engaged and entertained during training sessions. For instance, a feather wand can be a great way to lure your cat into a ‘sit’ position, while a laser pointer can be used to encourage ‘come’. | Leash training can also be a fun way to bond with your cat and provide them with some new stimulation. |
| Offer Praise: Don’t forget to offer plenty of praise and affection when your cat completes a command! This will help reinforce positive behavior and make the process enjoyable for both you and your feline companion. | Remember, consistency is key when it comes to training. Try to incorporate short training sessions into your daily routine, and make sure to stick with it even if progress is slow at first. With patience and persistence, you’ll soon have a well-trained and obedient American Bobtail! |
Teaching ‘Sit’
Getting your American Bobtail to learn some basic commands can help them become better-behaved and more obedient. One of the most important commands is ‘sit’. Teaching your cat to sit on command can be a great way to get them to calm down or focus their attention on you. It can also come in handy during vet visits or grooming sessions. In this section, we will discuss the step-by-step process for teaching your American Bobtail to sit. But before we begin, make sure to check out our introduction to the American Bobtail if you haven’t already.
Step 1: Lure with Treats
To begin teaching your American Bobtail the ‘Sit’ command, you’ll need some of their favorite treats. Follow these steps to get started:
- Select the Treats: Choose small, soft treats that your American Bobtail loves. It’s essential to use treats that are easy to consume and won’t cause any digestive issues.
- Show the Treats: Let your cat see and smell the treats. This way, they will know what they’re working for, and their motivation level will increase.
- Position the Treat: Hold the treat in front of your cat’s nose, ensuring they can smell it. Slowly raise the treat above their head, and gently move it backward. Your American Bobtail will naturally move into a ‘sit’ position as they follow the treat.
- Repeat the Exercise: Repeat the process a few times, allowing your cat to associate the treat with the ‘sit’ position. Be patient and use a reassuring and gentle tone of voice.
- Add the Verbal Cue: Once your cat starts sitting on cue, start to introduce the ‘sit’ command by saying it aloud as you move the treat. Remember to be consistent with your chosen cue, using it each time you practice the ‘sit’ command.
As you move through these steps, you’ll notice that your American Bobtail becomes more adept at sitting on command. Don’t be too quick to move on to the next steps; instead, repeat this exercise several times until you are confident that your cat understands the command.
Step 2: Add the Verbal Cue
Once your American Bobtail is consistently following the treat lure in the ‘sit’ position, you can add a verbal cue to accompany the hand signal. Adding a verbal cue will help your cat understand what action you want them to perform even without your physical presence.
Here’s how to add the verbal cue to teach ‘sit’:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Get your American Bobtail in the ‘sit’ position using the treat lure and hand signal. |
| 2 | As soon as they sit, say the word ‘sit’ clearly and in a positive tone. Use the word ‘good’ and give your cat a treat. |
| 3 | Repeat this process at least 10 times in a row over several training sessions. |
| 4 | After your American Bobtail has become familiar with the verbal cue and can sit on command, gradually reduce your use of the treat lure, relying mostly on the verbal cue and hand signal. Continue praising and rewarding your cat with a treat every time they get it right. |
It’s important to always use the same word for the command so as not to confuse your cat. Using a clear and positive tone of voice will also help your American Bobtail associate the word with a positive outcome. Inconsistency and negative tones will only confuse your cat and hinder progress. Be patient and consistent in your training sessions to see the best results.
Step 3: Increase Distance and Duration
To teach your American Bobtail the ‘Sit’ command, we have covered how to lure with treats and add the verbal cue. Now, we move on to step 3. This step involves increasing the distance and duration of the ‘Sit’ command.
Increasing Distance: Start by taking one step back from your American Bobtail after giving the verbal cue and hand signal for ‘Sit’. Then, gradually increase the distance between you and your cat. However, do not increase the distance too quickly, as that may confuse or discourage your cat.
Increasing Duration: Once your cat has learned to hold the ‘Sit’ position for a few seconds, you can start increasing the duration. Begin by waiting a little longer before rewarding your cat with a treat. Gradually increase the duration, but keep in mind that each cat learns at their own pace.
It is important to remember to always use positive reinforcement and never force your cat into the ‘Sit’ position. Encourage your American Bobtail with treats and praise, and be patient during the learning process.
Below is a table summarizing the steps for teaching your American Bobtail the ‘Sit’ command:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Lure with Treats |
| Step 2 | Add the Verbal Cue |
| Step 3 | Increase Distance and Duration |
| Step 4 | Remove the Treats |
By following these steps and being consistent, you can teach your American Bobtail the ‘Sit’ command in a positive and effective way.
Step 4: Remove the Treats
At this stage of the training, your American Bobtail cat should be familiar with the ‘sit’ command and should be responding well to it. Now it’s time to shift to the next level – removing the treats.
Step 4: Gradually remove the treats as rewards
While treats are an effective motivator during training, the ultimate goal is to get your cat to follow commands without the expectation of a treat reward every time. The process of weaning off treats should be done gradually and without sudden changes. It is important to keep your cat interested and committed to the training routine.
One way to slowly reduce the treats is by using the reward every other time your cat follows a command. Praise your cat with ample affection and praise in between treat rewards. Your cat will start to associate the command with positive feedback and attention from you, helping to reinforce the behavior even without a treat.
Another way is to gradually decrease the size of the treat or change to healthier alternatives that your American Bobtail enjoys, such as a few kibbles of their regular food. Additionally, giving treats randomly can help reinforce positive behavior without encouraging the expectation of constant rewards.
It’s important to note that removing treats completely should not happen too quickly. Abrupt changes can lead to frustration, confusion, and a lack of motivation for your cat. Be patient and remember that consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.
Here is a table outlining the gradual reduction of treats as rewards:
| Training Session | Treats Given |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | 1 treat per successful command |
| 3-4 | 1 treat every other successful command |
| 5-6 | Randomly give treats without command, praise and affection used |
| 7 and above | Gradually decrease the size of treats or use healthier alternatives and give randomly |
Teaching ‘Stay’
Now that your American Bobtail has mastered the ‘Sit’ command, it’s time to move on to the next step in their training: ‘Stay’. This command is essential for keeping your furry friend safe in potentially dangerous situations, such as crossing a busy road. By teaching your American Bobtail to ‘Stay’, you are giving them the ability to remain in one spot until given permission to move. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on how to properly teach your American Bobtail this important command.
Step 1: Start with Sit
When teaching your American Bobtail to ‘Stay’, it’s essential to begin with the ‘Sit’ command, as it serves as the foundation for this trick. Here are the details for starting with ‘Sit’.
| Step 1 | Begin by getting your American Bobtail to sit using the ‘Sit’ command. |
|---|---|
| Step 2 | Make sure your cat is comfortable with the ‘Sit’ command before moving on to the ‘Stay’ command. |
| Step 3 | It’s important to use a treat to lure your cat into the sitting position. You can hold the treat just above its nose and slowly move it back over its head, causing it to tilt its head up and sit down. |
| Step 4 | Be sure to use a verbal cue such as ‘Sit’ while luring your cat into position with the treat. This will help your cat to associate the word with the action. |
| Step 5 | Repeat this process numerous times until your cat can sit on command without the lure of a treat. |
Note: It is essential to keep the training sessions positive and fun, making sure to reward your cat for every successful attempt. Additionally, it’s important to be patient and consistent, as it may take some time for your American Bobtail to master the ‘Sit’ command before moving on to the ‘Stay’ command.
Step 2: Add the Hand Signal
Now that your American Bobtail has mastered the ‘Sit’ command, it’s time to move on to ‘Stay’. Adding a hand signal can help reinforce this command and make it easier for your cat to understand.
Step Two: Add the Hand Signal
When your cat is in the sitting position, hold up your hand with the palm facing out towards your cat. This is the visual cue for ‘Stay’. Repeat this signal several times while saying “Stay.” Your cat will learn to associate the hand signal with the verbal cue.
It’s important to note that the hand signal should always be used in conjunction with the verbal cue. This will help your cat understand that both the hand signal and verbal cue mean the same thing.
To help your cat learn the hand signal, you can do a training exercise in short sessions. Start by asking your cat to sit, then give the ‘Stay’ command with the hand signal and then take a step back. If your cat stays in position, reward them with a treat and give lots of praise.
You can gradually increase the distance you step away from your cat and the duration of the ‘Stay’ command. Be sure to use the hand signal every time to reinforce the command and help your cat understand what is expected of them.
Using hand signals can be especially helpful for cats that are hard of hearing or for owners who prefer non-verbal cues. With patience and consistency, your American Bobtail will soon understand and reliably respond to the ‘Stay’ command with a simple hand signal.
| Step Two: | Add the Hand Signal |
|---|---|
| What to do: | Hold up your hand with the palm facing out towards your cat while saying “Stay.” |
| Why do it: | The hand signal will help reinforce the ‘Stay’ command and make it easier for your cat to understand. |
| Tips: | Use the hand signal every time you give the ‘Stay’ command to reinforce the connection between the two cues. |
Step 3: Move Away Slowly
To teach your American Bobtail the ‘Stay’ command, after adding the hand signal (Step 2), it’s time to gradually increase the distance and time you move away from your pet. Here are the steps to follow:
- Once your pet is in the ‘sit’ position and you’ve added the hand signal, take a step away, then immediately step back and reward your pet for staying put.
- Repeat the process, taking two steps instead of one, then three, and so on, gradually increasing the distance.
- It’s important to take it slow and not move too quickly away from your pet. If your American Bobtail gets up and follows you, simply guide them back into the ‘sit’ position, and reward them for following your cue.
- As your pet gets used to you moving away from them, gradually increase the time you stay away before returning and rewarding them.
- It’s important to note that if your pet is struggling to stay in the ‘stay’ position, you may be moving too quickly. Go back a step and take more time gradually increasing the distance and duration.
By taking the time to gradually increase the distance and time, your American Bobtail will become more comfortable with staying in the ‘stay’ position and will better understand what is expected of them when you give them this cue.
Step 4: Increase Distance and Time
Once your American Bobtail has mastered staying in place for short durations, it’s time to increase the difficulty. The next step in teaching your American Bobtail to ‘Stay’ is to increase the distance and time they are required to hold the command.
Here’s how to do it:
- Begin by moving a few steps away from your American Bobtail while they are in the ‘Stay’ position. If they break the command, have them return to the original position and try again.
- Gradually increase the distance between you and your American Bobtail until you are able to walk to the other end of the room and still have them maintain the ‘Stay’ command.
- Next, start lengthening the amount of time your American Bobtail needs to stay in the ‘Stay’ position. Start with just a few seconds and then gradually increase it to a minute or more.
- As you increase distance and duration, make sure to continue to use positive reinforcement and provide plenty of treats and praise to let your American Bobtail know they are doing a good job.
Remember to take this process slowly and be patient with your American Bobtail. It may take some time for them to get comfortable with the increased distance and time, so don’t rush the process. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your American Bobtail will eventually master the ‘Stay’ command at any distance and for any length of time you require.
Step 5: Release Your American Bobtail with a Cue
Once your American Bobtail has successfully stayed in the original spot for a few seconds, you can release them with a cue word. This could be something like “ok” or “free.” Use this cue in a clear, energetic tone to let your cat know that they can move again.
It’s important to use the cue word consistently, so your cat understands when it’s time to move and when it’s time to stay. Don’t forget to reward your cat after each successful stay, even if it’s only for a few seconds. This positive reinforcement will encourage your cat to understand the command and follow it in the future.
Using the release cue is an important part of training your American Bobtail obedience. As you progress with training, you can increase the duration of the stay and the distance between you and your cat. With time and consistency, your American Bobtail will be able to stay in place as long as you need them to, even amid distractions.
Teaching ‘Come’
Imagine calling out your American Bobtail’s name and watching them instantly trot over to you. Teaching your furry friend the ‘come’ command can be a vital tool for keeping them safe and under control. Whether you’re calling them back after a playful romp or steering them away from something potentially dangerous, a reliable ‘come’ command is essential. In this section, we’ll show you step-by-step how to teach your American Bobtail to come when called. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Choose a Cue Word
Choosing the right cue word is essential to teaching your American Bobtail the ‘Come’ command. The cue word should be a short, unique, and easy-to-remember word that you will consistently use whenever you want your cat to come to you. This word could be “here,” “come,” “now,” or any other word you prefer.
To ensure that your American Bobtail recognizes the cue word, follow these tips:
| Tip | Description |
| Use a word that stands out | Choose a word that your cat is not likely to hear in everyday conversation, this will help the cue word stand out and be easily identified by your American Bobtail. |
| Consistency is key | Use the same word every time you want your American Bobtail to come to you. If you use different words or phrases, your cat may become confused and not respond appropriately. |
| Use a positive tone | When saying the cue word, use an upbeat and positive tone that your American Bobtail will associate with positive experiences and rewards. |
| Avoid negative words | Avoid using negative words like “no” or “stop” as your cue word. These words may confuse your American Bobtail and create a negative association with the command. |
Once you have chosen a cue word and have started using it consistently, your American Bobtail will begin to associate it with positive experiences and rewards. With practice and patience, your cat will come running to you whenever they hear the cue word.
Step 2: Use a Leash and Collar
When teaching your American Bobtail to ‘come’, it is important to use a leash and collar for safety reasons. The leash allows you to keep control of your cat while teaching them the cue, and the collar provides a way to attach identification tags in case they get away.
Choose the Right Leash and Collar
When selecting a leash and collar for your American Bobtail, consider their size and strength. A sturdy collar that fits properly is essential for control and safety, while a lightweight leash is easier to handle during training. A retractable leash is not recommended for training as it can give your cat too much freedom and reduce your control over the situation.
Introduce the Collar Gradually
If your American Bobtail is not used to wearing a collar, introduce it gradually before starting training. Begin by placing the collar on for short periods of time, gradually increasing the duration until they are comfortable wearing it for longer periods. Always supervise your cat when they are wearing a collar, especially in the beginning.
Attach the Leash to the Collar
To start training your American Bobtail to come, attach the leash to their collar. Allow them to become accustomed to the weight of the leash by letting them drag it around while supervised. This also helps them learn that the leash won’t hurt them.
Keep Training Sessions Short
When starting to teach the ‘come’ command, keep the training sessions short and positive. Call your American Bobtail by name and use the cue word you have selected while gently pulling on the leash. Encourage them to come towards you while praising and rewarding them with a treat or a toy that they enjoy playing with.
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Selecting the Leash and Collar | Choose a collar that fits properly and a lightweight leash that is easy to handle |
| Introducing the Collar Gradually | Start by placing the collar on for short periods and gradually increasing the duration |
| Attaching the Leash to the Collar | Attach the leash to the collar and gradually let your cat become comfortable with it |
| Keeping Training Sessions Short | Call your cat by name, use the cue word and gently pull on the leash while praising and rewarding with treats or toys |
By following these tips and gradually introducing your American Bobtail to the leash and collar, you can ensure a safe and successful training process for teaching the ‘come’ command.
Step 3: Run Away
One effective way to teach your American Bobtail the ‘Come’ command is by using a fun game of chase. This involves running away from your cat and encouraging them to come to you by using a specific cue word. Here’s how to do it:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 3 | Run away! |
In this step, you need to start running away from your American Bobtail while calling out the cue word you have chosen for the ‘Come’ command. Make sure to use a high-pitched and cheerful tone, as it will encourage your cat to chase after you. It’s important to keep the distance short at first to make it easier for your cat to catch up to you.
As your cat gets closer, you can reinforce the behavior by offering them a treat or using verbal praise, such as saying “good job”. This will help to establish a positive association with the ‘Come’ command and make your cat want to repeat the behavior in the future.
It’s important to note that you should be patient with your American Bobtail during this process. Some cats may take longer to catch on to the game, so don’t get discouraged if your cat doesn’t come to you immediately. Keep practicing regularly and you’ll eventually see progress.
Make sure to vary the locations where you play this game with your cat. This will help your cat to learn the ‘Come’ command in different contexts and environments, which will make it easier for them to respond to the command in other situations.
Step 4: Reward Your American Bobtail
After your American Bobtail successfully follows the “come” command, it’s essential to reward them for their efforts. This positive reinforcement will motivate them to keep obeying this command in the future.
Choose the Right Reward: When deciding your American Bobtail’s reward, make sure it’s something they really enjoy. It could be their favorite treat, a toy, or even praise and cuddles from you.
Timing is Key: For your American Bobtail to associate the reward with the “come” command, it’s important to give it to them within a few seconds of them successfully arriving at your feet.
Be Consistent: Make sure you reward your American Bobtail every time they follow the “come” command, at least until they’ve mastered it. This consistency will encourage them to continually obey this command.
Gradually Decrease Treats: As your American Bobtail becomes more skilled in obeying the command, you can gradually decrease the frequency of treats, and replace them with verbal praise and physical affection.
An example of a reward system for your American Bobtail is shown in the table below:
| Command Followed | Reward Given |
|---|---|
| “Come” on first request | Small treat |
| “Come” on second request | Verbal praise + patting |
| “Come” after being distracted | Bigger treat + verbal praise + patting |
By rewarding your American Bobtail after following the “come” command, you are cultivating a positive association with this command, which will make future training sessions more effective and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
Step 5: Repeat in Different Locations
Once your American Bobtail has mastered the ‘Come’ command in a familiar location, it’s important to practice in different environments to ensure they can reliably come when called. Here are some tips for repeating the command in various locations:
- Vary the Distances: Start with short distances and gradually increase the distance between you and your American Bobtail. Practice calling them from across the room, in the backyard, or even from another floor of your home.
- Add Distractions: Introduce distractions such as toys, other pets, or unfamiliar people to test your American Bobtail’s ability to focus on you and respond to the ‘Come’ command.
- Practice Outdoors: Take your American Bobtail to a dog park, beach or other outdoor locations where there are more visual and auditory distractions. Practicing recall in public places will help reinforce the command in different environments.
- Extend the Duration: Gradually increase the time that your American Bobtail is required to stay before being released with the ‘Come’ command. This will help build their impulse control and ensure a solid response when it matters most.
- Use High-Value Rewards: When practicing in different locations, it’s important to use high-value rewards such as their favorite treat or toy to keep them motivated and focused on the training.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep repeating the ‘Come’ command in different locations to reinforce and strengthen your American Bobtail’s response. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your furry friend will be able to come when called no matter where you are.
Conclusion
After following the steps outlined in this article, you should be on your way to teaching your American Bobtail basic commands with ease. Remember to start with short training sessions and always use positive reinforcement to keep your cat engaged and motivated. Consistency is also key, so be patient and persistent in your training efforts.
Teaching your American Bobtail basic commands not only makes your life and your cat’s life easier, but it can also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Keep the training sessions fun and positive for both you and your cat, and don’t forget to always reward good behavior.
With time and patience, your American Bobtail will learn to sit, stay and come on command, which can provide immense relief for situations such as vet visits, traveling, and more. Remember to keep practicing and repeating the training in different locations to ensure your cat truly masters the commands.
Overall, training your American Bobtail can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. So go ahead and give it a try! And don’t forget to give your four-legged companion some extra love and attention for being a good student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can American Bobtails be trained to do basic commands?
Yes, American Bobtails are intelligent cats that can be trained to do basic commands.
What is the best age to start training American Bobtails?
It is best to start training American Bobtails when they are kittens, between 8 and 12 weeks old.
How long does it take to train an American Bobtail?
The time it takes to train an American Bobtail depends on its personality and the amount of training it receives. However, with regular training, it should pick up basic commands within a few weeks.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when training an American Bobtail?
Avoid using physical punishment, skipping training sessions or being inconsistent with your commands.
What type of treats should be used during American Bobtail training?
Use small treats that are soft and easy for your cat to eat, such as salmon bites, chicken or tuna. Avoid giving them human food.
Do I need to use a clicker during American Bobtail training?
No, clickers are not necessary for training American Bobtails, but can be helpful to reinforce positive behavior.
How often should I train my American Bobtail?
You should train your American Bobtail for a few minutes each day, several times a day for best results.
Is it possible to train an adult American Bobtail basic commands?
Yes, it is possible to train adult American Bobtails but it may take longer than it would with kittens.
Can American Bobtails learn more than just basic commands?
Yes, American Bobtails can be trained to do more complex commands such as jumping, giving high fives, and even playing fetch.
What should I do if my American Bobtail doesn’t respond to training?
If your American Bobtail isn’t responding to training, try to find a more enticing treat, simplify the command or go back a step to build confidence before moving on to the next step.
