Teaching good manners

Owners of well mannered dogs always wear that smug look. Sure, they’re lucky, but they’ve done a few things right too. Some of their secrets are listed here. They work on dogs of any age but they’re best if started in puppyhood and carried out consistently into the golden years.

Bad behavior can be mighty frustrating; it’s by far the most common reason pets are relinquished to animal shelters.

• The eventual euthanasia of many of these maladjusted dogs is the leading cause of death in pets.
• Correcting a dog’s mistakes is important but the real win comes with reliable canine leadership.

Dogs are highly social creatures who need a great deal of activity

• Daily vigorous exercise, preferably with other dogs, is basic.
• Mental stimulation in the form of interactive play (ball, Frisbee, obedience, agility) will also translate to a better behaved dog.
• Rotate interesting toys like food puzzles daily to satisfy Bowser’s inner hunter/scavenger.

Dogs need structure 

• If she’s required to work for what she gets (earned privileges), she’ll watch you for instructions instead of flinging herself at you.
• Make a list of her favorite things: food, a pat on the head, a kind word, going out, coming in-everything.
• Require her to work for all of it-just like you and I. You are the grand poobah of your home; your dog is, well, your dog.

Getting started is easy

• Have your dog drag a leash (drag line) around the house.
• Just before he goes outside, eats dinner, whatever, hold the leash and say “Mangler, Sit”. Pull up on the leash as you push down on his rear end.
• Repeat the correction multiple times if you need to but NEVER repeat the command. You are in charge; your dog’s job is to listen and follow directions. Only then does he get what he wants.

As your dog’s leader it will be your job to anticipate triggers that can lead to bad behavior.

• At your first hint that he’s about to jump on a guest, chase the cat, or set the house on fire, grab the drag line and a treat and say “Barbarian, Come”. 
• Rather than committing the crime, your reformed canine felon will reap a more satisfying reward: your affection and a tasty treat.

A dog who flings himself at visitors can be taught to lay down when he’s still 10 feet away.

• With the drag line in one hand and a treat in the other say “Bozo, Down” (like you mean it).
• Hold the food at dog nose level, but give it up only after his elbows have been on the floor for several seconds.
• Correction is easy; just stand on the drag line until you release him with “OK”. Repeat hundreds of times.

Other annoying behaviors-

• How about that daily shoulder dislocation you get when your dog walks you?
• It’ll take time and patience to teach her to accept a head halter but it’s so much better than strangling her with a chain or prong collar.
• You can correct sneaky indoor behavior like counter surfing and jumping on furniture automatically with booby traps like a scat mat, motion activated citronella collar, or Snappy Trainer.

A word on punishment: forgetaboutit.

• Goofy dogs think you’re playing if you knee them in the chest or step on their toes when they jump on you.
• And for cryin’ out loud, leave the alpha rolls for the wrestlers. Scared dogs and assertive personalities may bite when they feel intimidated.
• Your dog loves you. Fear and pain poison good friendships.

Finally, it’s OK to avoid some problems.

• An otherwise great dog who’s only vice is food aggression should be left alone when eating.
• If she raids the garbage, store the trash in a latched cabinet.

Keep the faith and don't give up. Contact me through my web site if you need individual help.