Each year I publish some tips for dog training New Year’s resolutions, often with some changes. Here are a few ideas for 2020.
I will stop labeling my dog. Calling your dog dumb, stubborn, bad, or jealous will not help you to solve the behavior issue and may actually prevent you from getting to the root of the cause.
I will pay attention to give my pet reinforcement for behaviors I want to see more. When you add value to behaviors, by following the behaviors with something your pet values, your pet will do more of those behaviors.
I will give my pet plenty of opportunities to use his/her mind AND body in positive ways, and I will include myself in some of those choices. Not only is this a great relationship builder, it is a great way to incorporate positive teaching (and learning), enhance socialization skills, build stronger bodies, and improve quality of life, Oh yes, and when you give your pet appropriate (and valuable) choices to use the energy that is innate, he/she will be less likely to come up with his/her own choices for using energy.
I will incorporate training into my everyday life. Remember – on every minute of every day living beings (including pets) are learning by the consequences of behavior. Be aware of that with your dog or other pet. If you want your pet to sit when you take out the leash, for example, first teach ‘sit’ and then ask your pet to sit before attaching the leash.
Instead of blaming my pet, I will ask myself what I can do differently to change my pet’s behavior. Ask yourself, “What was the consequence of value to my pet in making that choice and what could I have done differently to have not given him that opportunity?,” and “What behavior would I have liked for him to do instead?” … then teach him that behavior.
I will practice paying attention to my dog’s body language. If you watch carefully, your dog will tell you when he wants more or less distance, when he is comfortable or uncomfortable, when he is focused or unfocused.
I will incorporate fun into every day. The more you and your pet do together that is of value to both of you, the more your pet will value being with you. Besides, what a great way to incorporate learning and exercise into your day!
Here’s to a happy, healthy and educational new year!
