Some pet owners need a few guidelines when it comes to training a four-legged family member. Here are some common mistakes.
1. Correcting misbehavior the wrong way. Most pet parents wait until the dog has done something wrong before addressing behavior concerns. For example, let's say your dog jumps on visitors. Each time a guest arrives, you scream, clap your hands, stomp your feet and flail about demanding your dog's attention in an effort to stop this unfavorable greeting. At this point, your guest probably is more overwhelmed by your behavior than that of your dog.
2. Tightening or jerking the leash when approaching distractions. Pet owners do this in anticipation of needing more physical control of the dog as they approach obstacles, but this unintentionally punishes the dog for observing approaching dogs and people and then rewards him after they have passed and his handler has relaxed the leash.
Therefore, the dog hates to see them come but loves to watch them walk away and will do anything to make them leave even faster. This includes lunging, barking and even acting aggressive.
3. Scolding curious dogs around babies and visitors. Just in case the dog even thinks about misbehaving around a little baby, another puppy or even guests, many people issue a warning the second the dog begins to approach. “Behave ….” Or “Be nice … .” are likely used to caution the dog before he even has had a chance to do anything wrong.
The dog learns to not like children or new interactions because of the strange feedback from his master. Thus begins a snowball effect for the next time similar greetings take place.
4. Missing out on regular exercise. Whether it be physical exercise or mental stimulation, your dog needs plenty of it — daily. Some dogs need much more than others. It is up to you to determine what fulfills your dog's requirements. So, if your dog likes to chew everything in sight, run circles around the living room or bounce of the walls, it is time to explore proper outlets for your dog's energy.
Andrea J. Lamping trains dogs in the greater airport area, including Sewickley, Moon and Robinson. She can be reached at 724-984-7829, or visit her website at www.moon-walkers.com.
