Remember that your dog is not maliciously trying to disobey you. When your dog does something you don’t want them to do, you need to let them know not to repeat this behavior in the future. [2] X Research source The Power of Positive Dog Training. Pat Miller. Publisher: Howell Book House. React quickly to bad behaviors you want to stop. Associations between a behavior and a consequence must be very close together in time for your dog to easily understand the relationship between the two. [3] X Expert Source David LevinDog Training Coach Expert Interview. 19 December 2019.
For example, if you’re teaching your dog a command and they refuse, say, “think again,” and turn your back. Your dog should realize that they’ve done the wrong thing. Turn back around and repeat the initial command. If they still don’t cooperate, say, “think again,” and turn your back. Repeat this until they understand the correct behavior. [6] X Research source The Power of Positive Dog Training. Pat Miller. Publisher: Howell Book House.
For example, if the doorbell rings, it may catch your dog off guard making them bark with surprise. If you ignore the bark, they get no reward and won’t bark the next time they hear the bell. But, if they bark and you shout at them to be quiet, you have accidentally rewarded the barking with attention. Now, they’ll be more likely to bark the next time they hear the bell.
Your dog doesn’t understand physical or verbal punishment. They’ll just be confused and hurt, which will damage your relationship. The most important of disciplining a dog is to be clear and to use time and repetition instead of force. [9] X Expert Source David LevinDog Training Coach Expert Interview. 19 December 2019.
Full-grown dogs that bite might be doing so because they are aggressive, and it will be more difficult to train them to stop without professional help. Consider calling your vet or an obedience trainer for insight.
For example, if your dog chews the furniture when you are out, they may be doing so because they’re bored or anxious at being separated from you.
You can also make arrangements so your dog is less likely to get caught by surprise, which can trigger a lot of bad behavior. For example, if your dog is easily started by a certain trigger, like the mail carrier, make sure your dog is in the backyard before the mail carrier comes each day. [12] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Reward the behavior immediately after the action, so your dog creates a positive association. If you reward them too soon or too late, your dog won’t understand why they’re getting the reward.
Make sure the dog has plenty of chew toys. This can keep them active and occupied when they have to remain inside. It can also prevent bad behaviors, like gnawing or chewing things they shouldn’t.
You should also feed and play with your dog at regular times. This way, your dog will learn to expect attention and care. They’ll be less likely to act out or try to get your attention if they know that playtime is coming. [17] X Research source
Getting a physical is especially important for older dogs. For example, your dog might have an incontinence issue due to a medical problem. Your vet will be able to diagnose and recommend further medical or behavioral treatment. [19] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
