One of the more intelligent pets, parrots can be trained to speak, fetch and even play dead! While the key to parrot training is to establish a good relationship with yours, here are five tips for training yours.

Breed Matters

The Timneh Parrot | Source: Pinterest

Not all breeds are created equal, so it is important for you to know whether your pet parrot belongs to one that can make human sounds. Parrot breeds such as the Timneh Parrot or the Indian Ringneck are able to mimic human speech if trained from young. Parakeets such as the Budgerigar are also known for their ability to learn a wide range of words. When in doubt, consult a vet in Singapore for more information about your pet.

Building A Rapport

Like the start of every adventure, it is important to build a good relationship with your partner. As mentioned in pet magazines in Singapore, this includes providing your pet a decent living area and proper diet. As birds are social creatures, it is also important to pay your pet loads of attention and engage with it multiple times throughout the day.

Use Simple Words

Every talking parrot starts off by repeating basic words, such as “Hi” or “Bye”. Incorporate these words into your pet’s life by greeting it every morning, or saying hey every time you walk past its cage. Do this long enough, and it is likely the pet will pick up at least one or two of the things you say.

Repeat the Words

Regular exposure to different words in different contexts can encourage your parrot to form a mental link between the situation and the word, allowing it to commit this association to memory. Be consistent with when you say which word, i.e. only say ‘Good Morning’ in the mornings. Similarly, try to avoid cursing when around your parrot. You don’t want your pet to start scolding innocent guests the moment they step into the house!

Have Fun!

In a bid to teach our pets new tricks, we can become impatient when they do not pick up it up on the first try. Never forget that they are first and foremost companions and not an exhibit for you to show off, so take it easy on them during this period. Make sessions fun by rewarding them with treats from online pet stores, or to take them out for a walk as a reward once they learn a new word. This will make training easier and also improve your relationship with your pet!