Learning to decipher and think critically is where understanding really shines. Sometimes all too often we get swayed by popular POV or biased opinions on dog training. The most important factor in training animals is allowing them choice points, understanding how they communicate, keeping them safe and comfortable. Advocating for them instead of forcing them into situations they are not comfortable to be in. For example, over use of obedience in the wrong environment and context where the dog becomes stressed, feels unsafe and is only complying out of fear that aversive trainers term as “submission”.
Happy to report Loki is doing great. His dedicated dog mom has done AN AMAZING JOB working with him! For a new dog guardian this takes a lot of work and patience. Perfect now that BC has loosened up mask and visitation protocol. Loki is able to warm up to more family members and friends. 💯👏🏻🙌🏻❤️
Practice training. Only 10 to 15 mins a day, 1 to 2 x a day. Choose a training project. Keep your dog successful. End with success. Stick with your trainer’s plan. Training is also about shaping and getting there in small steps towards a bigger goal.💯👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Lets do this! With honour Devoted Dog accepts the late Betty White’s challenge. For all the animals that have no voice. Donate to your local shelters and rescues - any amount adds up. Spread the challenge. Share.
Planning Dog Training for Success
Be easy on yourself. Dog behaviour modification takes time and requires patience. There are so many variables to consider for each dog in a behaviour and training plan that makes up the sum of the whole. Think
of being in a yoga studio where students go at theor own pace of flexibility. Our fur buddies, like us, are all biologically made up individually. Let them flex their brain at their own pace with what works best for them as individuals.
Romeo no longer pulls towards small and large animals in the city. He just points, part of his drive bred into him by we humans.
Many breeds are no longer being used for what they were originally bred for. Giving Romeo things to do that mimic what he does instinctively helps keep behaviour in check. Combination of training and training games are also used as motivators and rewards for training.
Instincts for self preservation for survival, reproduction, or defense are sometimes so strong in a dog that we must keep our expectations in check when working on behaviour change.
Patience is key.
- If your dog has poor recall keep them managed first with a leash until they are 100% proofed. Don’t fall for the safety advice from trainers to use a shock collar. Dogs can panic when zapped. It’s not effective in the long run. If your dog is well trained and properly proofed you should never have to use a shock collar.
- Don’t allow a dog to pull you get support with a certified professional to help you with proper leash handling skills.
Remembering those that sacrificed for our freedom. Forever grateful. ❤️
Dogs also played many roles to
support our freedom. They were messengers between lines, ran telephone wire, transported first aid as mercy dogs (also known as an ambulance dog, Red Cross dog, or casualty dog). They sniffed for gas, grenades or bombs. Pulled artillery. Protected and saved their soldiers from danger and kept up the morale as therapy dogs. ❤️
What constitutes behaviour change?
You know your dog well. The first thing to ask yourself when your dog is acting out of character is are all your dog’s needs being met, including bathroom break, more water, etc. Is your dog out of routine? Had enough sleep? Is there any unforeseen medical issue?
Combine enrichment, management and training to teach your dog a new behaviour. For example, when guests arrive, and you still haven’t trained your dog not to jump, manage their environment with baby gates, or a leash to “manage” your dog in the house until your dog is fully trained. This is two-fold. We don’t want them practicing the jumping behaviour and your guests will appreciate it as they have no idea how to stop your dog.
Dog’s get bored when there isn’t enough stimulation especially when they have no outlet for their energy or they are out of their routine. They like predictability, routine and
stimulation.
To keep them occupied do training games 5 to 10 minutes at least 2 x a day. Give them interactive safe toys. Understand what your particular dog needs for stimulation. Try to keep a daily routine. It should include walks, training, enrichment, downtime (naps), playtime. Dog sports is also another great outlet for your dog. Dog’s do best with all of these in check. A happy dog is a happy life.
