dog trainer

Why your dog doesn't listen to you, part 4

Why your dog doesn't listen to you, part 4

Reason #4: You have rewarded the wrong behavior

Again, dogs are simple in terms of understanding what works versus what doesn’t work. This is a personal favorite of mine - it just makes me laugh in my mind as I watch dogs in the world. “I just don’t know what he does this,” exclaims the exasperated dog owner. Usually, it’s because you’ve somehow reinforced the wrong behavior.

I did this today with Heidi the Rottweiler high stepping in the underwater treadmill rather than walking normally.

Why your dog doesn't listen to you, Part 3

Why your dog doesn't listen to you, Part 3

Dogs they operate in black and white as nature intended, they do not understand gray areas. Your dog spends every interaction with you learning - be sure they are learning what you want. These animals have evolved watching our every move and learning how to live with us.

Consistency in dog training is important with both reinforcement and negative consequences. All organisms seek pleasure and seek to avoid discomfort, save for maybe a few weirdos but that is a totally different conversation.

Meet Your Dogs Needs

Meet Your Dogs Needs

I’ve actually said to people, “Don’t you dare complain about that dog when you’re not meeting his/her needs.”

By taking the time to meet your dog’s needs, your dog is more likely to be relaxed and well-behaved. Dogs are meant to move their bodies, use their noses, use their brains, and be active. They are not meant to sit in kennels all day, be relegated to the yard, or only interacted with when a person feels like it. I’ve actually said to people, “Don’t you dare complain about that dog when you’re not meeting his/her needs.”

"True Rest" and why your dog needs it

"True Rest" and why your dog needs it

A common problem I see with pet dogs, especially puppies and adolescents, is not from a lack of “training” but more so from a lack of what I call “true rest”. What is “true rest” you ask?