| Training Tips
Does Your Dog Bolt Out The Door?
If so, try this easy correction method. Place the dog in the sit/stay position with a training leash in front of an outside door. Have a family member or friend either ring the door bell or knock. When your dog makes a move towards the door, gently correct by making a quick snapping motion with the leash and repeating the stay command. Repeat this several times. Remember to reward the dog with praise after each successful attempt. You can also reinforce this behavior by repeating this task with inside doors as well, such as bathroom, pantry, garage, bedroom, etc. Good luck and call or e-mail if you would like further guidance.
PET DOORS - How do I convince my dog to use it?
Leave the door wide open. Throw a treat or toy through the door and encourage the dog to investigate (most dogs are curious by nature). If your dog is hesitant, sit by the door and offer a tasty treat. Do not withdraw the treat, just hold it close to the door. Eventually, the dog's natural curiosity and interest in food will draw the dog to the door.
As soon as the dog steps through the door, praise the dog and offer another treat. Now, it is time to introduce the closed door. Hold the door corner slightly open. This is so the dog can see the other side. If your pooch hesitates, encourage the behavior with some more favorite treats. Eventually by constant repetition and praise, your dog will learn to accept and enjoy the opportunity to come and go as it pleases. This may also encourage your dog to bring both wanted and unwanted friends inside (or out), so remember to secure the door when appropriate.
CRATE TRAINING - Does it Work?
The answer is a qualified yes! However, it is key that the dog is properly introduced to the crate. Begin by placing the dog in its crate with a toy or treat at odd times during the day when you are at home. It is important to remember that the dog should never be disciplined, neither verbally (and certainly not physically) when placed in the crate, while in the crate, or when released from the crate. After placing the dog in the crate, totally ignore the dog. Stay in the same room at first, then go in and out of the room, then stay out of the room for longer periods of time. Allow as many days as it takes for each stage and let the dog out only when it is quiet and calm.
Gradually as the dog accepts being crated, occasionally pick up your keys and leave. No good-byes, no sad farewells. Just leave! Pretend you forgot something, return in a few minutes and leave again. Repeat many times, varying the length of your comings and goings. The crate is your dog's best friend next to you and your veterinarian. It provides a safe and natural den.
PUNISHMENT vs CORRECTION
Dogs don't know the difference between "good dog - bad dog". "Behavior breeds Behavior; good, bad or indifferent." What we know is that positive reinforcement influences positive behavior. Corrections must not include verbal or physical abuse. We want the dog to realize that there is something in it for them each time they do something correctly. When they engage in negative or inappropriate behavior, mild corrections will gain much more ground than punishment. Punishment will create mistrust and fear, while corrections encourage good habits and behavior.
DOG SPEAK - HOW DO I COMMUNICATE WITH MY DOG?
Dogs do not have conversations with each other or with us as people do. Dogs communicate with each other and us through body language. In order to have an effective relationship with your dog, we need to learn to read body language, both theirs and ours. You may carry on a verbal conversation wih your dog, however they have little or no concept on why or what you are saying. In essence your conversation really is with yourself. What they concentrate on is your body language, movement and voice intonation. How you move, carry yourself, and your energy flow, either positve or negative speaks volumes to your dog.
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