Archive for July, 2010
Common Dog Behavior Problems – #8: Jumping Up
Puppies jump up to reach and greet their mothers. Later, they may jump up when greeting people. Dogs may also jump up to exert dominance. A jumping dog can be annoying and even dangerous. There are many methods to stop a dog’s jumping, but not all will be successful. Lifting a knee, grabbing the paws, or pushing the dog away might work for some, but for most dogs this sends the wrong message. Jumping up is often attention-seeking behavior, so any acknowledgment of your dog’s actions provide a reward! The best method: simply turn away and ignore your dog. Do not make eye contact, speak, or touch your dog. Go about your business. When he relaxes and remains still, calmly reward him. It won’t take long before your dog gets the message. If this does not work, put on his remote dog training collar!
Common Dog Behavior Problems – #7: Chasing
A dog’s desire to chase moving things is simply a display of predatory instinct. Many dogs will chase other animals, people and cars. All of these can lead to dangerous and devastating outcomes! While you may not be able to stop your dog from trying to chase, you can take steps to prevent disaster.
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times (unless directly supervised indoors).
- Train your dog to come when called
- Have a dog whistle or noisemaker on hand to get your dog’s attention.
- Use a remote dog training collar
- Stay aware and watch for potential triggers, like joggers.
Your best chance at success is to keep the chase from getting out of control. Dedicated training over the course of your dog’s life will teach him to focus his attention on you first – before running off.
Common Dog Behavior Problems – #6: Begging
Begging is a bad habit, but many dog owners unfortunately encourage it. This can lead to digestive problems and obesity. Dogs beg because they love food – but table scraps are not treats, and food is not love! Yes, it is hard to resist that longing look, but giving in “just this once” creates a problem in the long run. In a pack setting, a subordinate would never beg from alpha dogs without reprimand. When you teach your dog that begging is permitted, you jeopardize your role as pack leader. Before you sit down to eat, tell your dog to stay, preferably where he will not be able to stare at you. If necessary, confine him to another room. If he behaves, give him a special treat only after you and your family are completely finished eating. If this does not work, try using a remote dog training collar.
Prepping for Dog Training
It’s common knowledge that dogs are easiest to train when they’re still in the puppy stage. If they are taught to correct their mistakes early on, they won’t even think about making them again later in life. A rambunctious young pup is incredibly endearing, but the little troublemaker can also wreak havoc in a home until he’s trained. Even with the aid of Petsafe dog training collars, it can take some time before your pooch is in line.
You can protect antiques and other breakables in your house by carefully applying dog repellent. Dogs will be deterred from entering the area for 24 hours, and the repellent can be reapplied as needed until your pooch is adequately trained. This technique is especially helpful if you have all of your most precious items in one room. If you catch him early enough, you can train a dog to never even consider disrupting the valuables.