Dog Training isn't Rocket Science

by Jenna Kingston @ Highfives for K9s

❌ 1. Pin human emotions onto your dog: It's easy to put emphasis on your story instead of the dog's reality. It allows you to explain and excuse behaviours that you haven't been able to address. Unfortunately a dog will get stuck in the past when you don't allow him to move on. Whether you know your dog's history or not, do him a favour and stop allowing it to define his behaviour. If you've had this dog for over a week or raised him from puppyhood, his present behaviour is now your fault. You haven't just inherited his past, but now you're allowing or even encouraging it at this point. And he's not just being a brat because he likes being one. Simply put, he hasn't been taught what is acceptable behaviour yet and the way he is behaving works to get him what he wants. The same goes for fear, the root of most problems in dogs. If a dog is kept in his comfort zone, he won't be able to get away from his traumatized self.
❌ 2. Use positive-only training: The R+ surge has been a detriment to dogs all over the world. I have nothing against using positive training for the majority of your relationship, but to refuse to acknowledge that correction is a natural part of learning is like tying your hands up yet still wanting to drive a vehicle. It's only a matter of time until you crash and your dog is always the casualty in this case.
❌ 3. Lack of leash and crate use: Does your dog pace or hide inside the home? Utilize a leash indoors. Does your dog destroy the house when you leave or practice nocturnal behaviours? There's a crate for that. Don't allow your dog to build bad habits by giving him too much freedom that he hasn't earned responsibility for.
❌ 4. Share only affection: But that's why most people adopt a dog right? It's all about filling that void in your heart! Instead, your goal should be to provide what your dog NEEDS before you give only good stuff. Allow your dog to earn the affection you share. In the dog world, rewards are earned through the right behaviour. So only encourage the behaviours that are right for your dog.