TrainTips

Your dog is from another culture and has come to live with you, not knowing or understanding your language and customs. In a perfect world he would understand our language and you could explain why you need to make rules and take some decisions on his behalf. In the real world your puppy may only understand the rules he learned in the litter from his mother and siblings. Their primary means of communication would have been with body language and some vocalisation. When he left his mother and siblings he should by then have learned how to live co-operatively with other dogs BUT will not yet learned how to live co-operatively with his new family.

It is very sad that some owners are still being advised and encouraged to train their dogs by in a confusing way. By ignoring them completely some of the time and at the opposite end of the scale by shouting, shaking, alpha rolling, smacking or using unpleasant equipment in an effort to gain control. Both ends of the spectrum can create a really uncomfortable and unpleasant relationship which could trigger fearful, reactive behaviour which can excalate out of control.

In this day and age, a pet dog is much more a part of the family and has greater access and freedom around the home. This only becomes a problem when owners are not aware of the dog’s natural drives and instincts. Some privileges allowed are not important in human terms but can be very significant to your dog who is . I have tried to highlight causes of confusion that may lead to a breakdown in communication and the development of common problems.

The aim is to develop a good and positive relationship from the outset. Prevention is always better than cure. The methods are not confrontational, encourage confidence and trust in humans and if followed consistently will put owners in a calm leadership role.

WARNING: If there is a serious or long standing inappropriate behaviour in an adult dog, especially where aggression is involved, you will not find all the answers you seek in these pages. Go to your Veterinary Surgeon, who will examine the dog to see if there is a physical problem contributing to the situation. If this is ruled out, a referral to an experienced and qualified professional, approved by your Vet is the next step. An individual, staged rehabilitation training programme can then be developed to overcome the established problems.