06/14/2022
One of the things most dog owners struggle with is the idea of rules. Is it ok to let my dog on the bed? Does my dog have to walk at a perfect left heel? Can Inplay tug of war w my dog? The answer to these and many similar "rule" questions is never a simple straight forward answer BUT it is an easy one to figure out.
Simply follow these 3 simple steps!!
1) Ask yourself, "Do I want the dog to do this 'thing'?" If the answer is yes... then by all means... go ahead and move on to step 2. If not, then don't let them do it.
2) Are you in control when the dog is doing that 'thing'? Will the dog get off the bed if you tell him to? Or does she drag you around like a lunatic on your walks? Does he get aggressive when playing tug and will fight you to the death for the toy? If your dog is predominantly cooperative then go ahead let the dog do that "thing"! If not, then you may need to do some relationship work before allowing these or other privileged behaviours.
3) Be consistent. As is the case w all dog (and child) rearing... consistency is key. You can not change the rules constantly and expect your dog to know when and where to follow or break the rules!
Nobody wants to live under the burden of a million rules. So let your dog enjoy your company and his life by picking and choosing the battles and rules that have meaning and purpose for you!!
Have questions, feel free to message me or share your thoughts below!
