How to train your dog to stop poor behavior | Dogalize
You love your dog dearly—he’s a beloved member of the family. But some of his habits drive you around the bend.
Proper training can eradicate less-than-desirable behavior.
We asked Jessica Barlow, dog trainer at Circle of Friends Humane Society in Grand Forks, for the inside scoop on how to stamp out the naughty actions and ramp up the good ones.
One thing’s for certain: generous use of treats will encourage the right behavior, she said. Enthusiastic petting and positive verbal responses also will make the lessons stick.
Here are a few annoying habits and tips on how to break them:
1) Jumps up on people as a greeting. Getting “super excited” with you or visitors gets annoying, Barlow said. “I make my dog sit in the kennel before he can come out of the kennel.” She also ignores her dog for 10 to 15 minutes when she first gets home, she said. “Do what you need to do—like wash dishes—and by the time you’ve finished, he has ‘deloaded.’ “
2) Chews on socks and underwear. Why? Because that’s where people sweat most, Barlow explained. “It’s a human Mom or Dad cocktail. (To cure this) keep lots of chewies around.”
3) Peeing on the floor. Random accidents may be a sign that your dog is confused about where to potty. When he wakes up, eats or plays, take him out using the door you want him to go to. After a few days (or possibly weeks, depending on how well you adhere to the schedule), he’ll go to that door.
4) Gets excited and bites playfully. As soon as the dog’s open mouth touches you, yell, “Hey,” “Stop” or “Drop” and then freeze, Barlow said. “If you move, it’s still fun (for the animal).” Then walk away for about a minute.
5) Chews on bedding. If this happens while you’re at home, it may be due to boredom. “The dog is finding a job to do,” Barlow explained. “It’s boring for dogs if they’re always in the same place.” Once he’s sniffed everything in your yard, he needs a new place to explore, sniff and greet people. “Take the dog to different places,” she said. “Dogs need mental and physical stimulation.”
6) Dashes out the door. Standing in front of the dog and blocking the door, firmly say, “Wait.” When she gives up, she can go out with you, Barlow said. “Then, the reward is going out.”
Source: grandforksherald.com