Almost every dog owner will have to use some sort of behavior modification techniques at one time or another when training their prized pet. If you are able to ‘get’ why your dog does what he does, when he does it, you are one step closer to solving the problem. This article will detail six ways of doing just that, in a general fashion that can be used for a wide variety of issues.
Dog Training Tip #1: It’s All About Control
Let your dog know who is in charge, and you’ve alleviated a lot of problems. It’s not about fighting for control, it’s about knowing who has it. So when it’s time to train your dog, put on his training collar so he’s fully aware of what time it is. Alternatively, use a leash when walking your dog, so that he knows who is boss all of the time.
Dog Training Tip #2: Reframe the negative
Instead of telling your dog, “NO!” for something bad he’s done, try and reframe the negative into something positive instead. For instance, if your dog decided to run after a chipmunk running across your lawn, try, “Sit” instead of whatever you’d normally use. Now you can praise him as well for his good behavior, instead of yelling at him because he didn’t stop.
Dog Training Tip #3: Allow for Differences in Perception
Your dog may not think that digging is bad behavior, but you and your garden probably do. Instead of getting upset, why not provide your dog with adequate digging space elsewhere, complete with buried treasures? Then, you can do the same as dog training tip number two, and provide positive feedback when he digs in the allotted space, and not in your flower garden.
