We teach our children good manners – the difference between right and wrong – so why do we neglect to teach our pets the same principles? Just as with a child, when your pet knows the house rules he will be a happy and balanced pet and a pleasure to have.
There is nothing as embarrassing as a dog that jumps up all over your guests as soon as they walk in the door. There are various reasons why a dog jumps up – but the most common is to greet you or your friends, or to get attention.
We teach our children good manners – the difference between right and wrong – so why do we neglect to teach our pets the same principles? Just as with a child, when your pet knows the house rules he will be a happy and balanced pet and a pleasure to have.
There is nothing as embarrassing as a dog that jumps up all over your guests as soon as they walk in the door. There are various reasons why a dog jumps up – but the most common is to greet you or your friends, or to get attention.
When you start out with a pup, never to make a fuss when he jumps up. Rather press him down firmly and praise him only when he is on the ground. Jumping and standing up should be discouraged from the beginning of your association. Do your best never to give mixed signals – no means no.
Puppy school is a wonderful way for pups and their owners to socialise. Your pup becomes accustomed to other dogs and humans and learns how to interact with them. This is a very important part of his or her development process.
One of the worst shows of bad manners is a dog that grabs food – whether it is from you or another person or, worse, a young child. Grabbing food is a big no-no. Your pet must realise that his behaviour does not get any approval and that food and treats disappear when we grab.
When you decide on a method of dog-training, you will come across different factions with varying opinions.
My favourite two are clicker training and reward-based training.
Please do your research carefully – whether you are looking for advice about your own do, or are looking for a trainer for your dog.
Anyone can claim to be a dog trainer, so please speak to as many people as possible and make sure the person to whom you hand over your best friend is someone whom you can trust.
Teaching your dog can be rewarding and fun for both of you. When working with a puppy, watch him as he plays around and each time he sits down, say the word, "sit", and praise him.
Quite soon he will associate the command with the action.
Using your pet's favourite treat as a training aid is another way to teach the "sit" command. While he is standing show him the treat in your hand, then move your hand over his head.
In order to follow your hand with his eyes, he will sit down and raise his head. As soon as he sits down, say the word "sit", praise him and give him his reward.
If you are consistent, he will get the idea very soon.
Just a caution – never try to work with your dog when you are upset or angry and always end your training session on a good note, so he will look forward to the next time.
Delanie Flanegan
Bedford
