Happy National ‘If Pets Had Thumbs’ Day
Many an owner laments on the struggles of raising well mannered pups. Often when they reach out for help they say things like, ‘The dog is better at training me than I am a training him!’ Or ‘She’s too smart for her own good!’ I am happy to assure you that you ARE in fact, SMARTER than your dog! But that doesn’t always mean that you connect the dots as quickly as your dog does. Luckily for you, you probably have thumbs, and your dog doesn’t.
Dogs are experts at reading body language and learning to anticipate what comes next. They learn quickly through consequences what works and what doesn’t and they course correct efficiently. When our trainers work with you that’s what we’re trying to help you accomplish, too. It will definitely take some practice but with a little focus and dedication you’ll soon be up to par with your four legged friend. And that’s no insult!
One of the best assets you have on your end is the ability to provide things your dog needs. Avoid ‘bootleg reinforcement’ where your dog obtains things he wants on his own. Then use those desires to reward him for doing things you like. Your dog can’t open the cookie jar or front door so he needs you to do it for him. If you ration your resources wisely your dog is so smart that he will quickly figure out how to please you so that he can get you to do things for him.
Where this backfires is when we allow our dogs too much freedom so they can access the things they want or need without going through you first. Could you imagine if pets had thumbs? Dogs would have the ability to go wherever they please, eat whatever they like, and do whatever they want, whenever they choose and with the emotional capacity of a toddler! Thank your lucky stars that you’re the one with the thumbs in the relationship. Otherwise you might be the one on the leash!
Are you struggling to manage your dog’s access to bootleg reinforcers? Check out this blog on Environmental Management. Incorporate your management strategies proactively! Most problem behaviors follow predictable patterns which begins with too little supervision, too few boundaries, and repeated exposure to scary things. If you’re still struggling after utilizing the strategies in the blog be sure to Schedule your FREE discovery call today!
Managing Predation
Every dog has some degree of prey drive in his genes. When your otherwise well mannered dog suddenly takes off chasing after a rabbit, squirrel, or a jogger, the old approach to solving this problem involved the use of corrective devices like choke chains and electronic fences. A better approach includes training and management techniques that reward your dog for choosing to focus on and stay near you, the owner.
Get more in-depth information about:
- What predatory behavior is and how it manifests itself
- Communicative walks and recall exercises
- Self-activated sitting upon sight of prey
- Causes of failure in training
- Training aids, methods, and their limits
Predation Reduction
As you get out an enjoy the warmer weather you may find your dog is wound a little tighter than he was before. After a season cooped up it’s no surprise that squirrels, chipmunks, bird, or whatever else you encounter on your walks send your dog into a frenzy. We can help bring peace and enjoyment back to your walks with a Private Training Package!
Add on a Day Training Package if you don’t have time to do the work yourself!
913.712.8742
OlatheKSDogTraining.com
Info@olatheksdogtraining.com
