Most dogs that appear to not listen to their owners are actually very confused because they’ve learned different commands from different people in the house. Agree on what command you will use and reward your dog when they perform the command. Additionally, keep training sessions short to reinforce your dog’s attention.
Why reward-based training
Dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarded. For behaviors you want to see more of, you can use food, play, and affection, or you can give your dog a chance to go out and explore. These are all rewards. They're also the basis for dog training programs operated by welfare charities and trainers in the UK.
Concepts of dog training that rely on harsh, punitive methods (such as the earlier "dominance" and "pack leadership" concepts) have little or no scientific foundation and have been refuted. In the process, trainers unknowingly promote fear in their dogs, increasing their anxiety and predisposing them to defensive biting.
What to teach first
These five things simplify your day to day life:
- Call your dog's name. Reward your dog when he looks at you.
- Reminders. Reward your dog for returning indoors. Always call your dog to something good and never to something bad.
- Sitting can be helpful for transitions and meal time.
- Loose lead walking is simply walking your dog and giving them the freedom to explore within a certain limit. The leash is kept fairly taught, meaning it is kept fairly taut, and does not go completely slack.
- Settle. To lie there calmly while you engage in other activities.
Three to four 5-minute sessions a day are more effective than a long session. Train while the dog is still eager.
Socialisation
A puppy will accept new things as normal only for a limited time. You should take advantage of this time-window. Show the puppy different people of all ages, various situations (like vacuuming, driving), different surfaces (like stairs and slippery floors) and meet some calm, friendly, and vaccinated adult dogs. Crowded places should be avoided, because puppy will probably get scared in strange situations with many new, unknown stimuli.
Common problems
Tugging on the lead is usually a result of a training gap. Well, it can be managed with an properly fitted harness until it’s trained away.
Jumping on people is punished by redirecting them to the floor with all four paws. Jumping on people is also ignored by turning away. Having guests do this is the hardest part.
Some dogs are incapable of coping when their owners leave. These dogs may bark and/or howl, destroy things, and/or soil in the house. If your dog is doing any of these things, you need to leave the house less frequently. If your dog is extremely distressed by your absence and there is no other choice but to leave the dog alone, you should seek professional help.
Defending territory. Most common around food, toys and good seating spots. If your dog growls while guarding, trade for a better reward and/or enlist help if the situation is getting out of control.
Dog-dog interactions are somewhat complicated, and addressing fearful behaviors should not be approached in the same manner as dealing with aggressive behaviors. Just like with dealing with aggression, creating distance is often the best way to start. While you should reward calm looks to help your dog feel more secure and in control, you should avoid situations where your dog can’t feel in control, as this can increase anxiety.
When to get professional help
Behavioral problems and sudden biting require immediate intervention. If you are unsure what is causing the changes, schedule a veterinarian appointment. Often times, behavioral changes can be attributed to pain.
In the UK, no regulation exists for training and behavior work. Therefore, any individual can refer to themselves as a behaviorist. You should look to the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) for more information regarding individuals who have met their set criteria.
Choosing a breed
Choosing a breed based on appearance can be misleading. For example, Collies are working dogs and have strong herding instincts which means they need a lot of mental stimulation and can cover a ton of ground. Working sheepdogs also need mental exercise and miles. Terriers, particularly Jack Russells, are bold and can cover a lot of ground, which makes them difficult to control. Huskies also need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as, purpose. They have strong prey drive and are difficult to train to ignore smaller animals.
Flat-faced breeds (Pugs, French Bulldogs, etc.) are in a category of their own. Their facial structure leads to a variety of health issues including respiratory issues, and issues with eyes and skin. You should become educated on these issues prior to supporting this breeding practice.
When considering health tests, it is best to check the test results of the parents themselves. There are many recognised tests for various conditions including hips, eyes, and elbows.
Buying a puppy safely
Starting in England, Lucy's Law bans the sale of puppies and kittens under six months by seller's other than the breeder. The law also bans the sale of puppies under eight weeks. Similar laws have been passed in Scotland and Wales.
Leave if the seller won't allow you to see the puppy with its mother, insists on meeting you in a car park, or brings the puppy to you. This is also the case if the seller is rushed or pushy, and if the seller has many breeds available.