Behaviors that you like from your dog or puppy need to be rewarded not ignored. For example, when your puppy approaches and sits in front of you, load him up with praise and goodies. Food is especially rewarding. Tell your dog how great he is. Because if all you do is notice the naughty behaviors, you’ll get more of that.
I have watched clients push their dogs and puppies off them over and over again when the animal jumps up. When the pup nips, I’ve seen people pull away and reprimand the pup. Or when the dog barks, there’s nothing more satisfying than an argument, so you yell at the dog and especially make eye contact, the dog will love it, and you’ll get more of the same.
Start to notice the silence. People are so quick to notice the misbehaviors, that the quiet approach and sit is often overlooked. Shame. Because when your dog or puppy offers the behavior you’re seeking and you ignore it, your chance to create more of the same goes down the drain. And often, when a dog is ignored, the next step is jumping up! That gets him attention, and the circle of misbehaving begins or continues.
Watch out for what you want and lavish rewards on your dog for behaving like the pet dog you want.
To send your dog to the Love Wags A Tail board-and-train camp for motivational learning with our cast of characters, contact us with your dog training, behavior modification wish list to get started.
Helen Verte Schwarzmann
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Certified in Training and Counseling
Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed
Certified Trick Dog Instructor
AKC STAR Puppy, CGC, and Trick Dog Trainer and Evaluator
Your Board-and-Train Dog Trainer for south and southwest Florida, Southwest Ranches, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Weston, Broward, Collier, Lee county
