3 Ways to Overcome Unwanted Behaviors

There’s 2 ways to look at behaviors. Behaviors we like and behaviors we don’t like. If you see a behavior you like, reward it. What gets rewarded, gets repeated. Look for opportunities to say, “yes”

Behaviors we like “reward”

 All four paws on floor

 Making eye contact

 Quiet

Chewing on own toys 

Behaviors we don’t like "do not reward"

Jumping

Chewing

Barking

Overexcited behavior 

There are 3 ways to overcome unwanted behaviors. 

1.  Ignore - try turning your back on a dog that jumps, cross your arms and look away

2.  Replace/redirect - Give your dog something else to do. For example, replace the jumping behavior with a solid sit.  

   •  Tip: If your dog jumps on you and you ask him/her to sit, wait 10 seconds before you give attention or reward.

3.  Time out - Separate your dog from the activity or person he/she wants for 30 seconds or until your dog calms down

   •  Tip: Supervision: Puppy proof the home. Keep items like remote controls, wires, shoes, clothing, etc away from your puppy’s reach.

Ways to use these dog training protocols.

•  Ignore a jumping dog 

•  Redirect chewing with correct items like dog toys or dog bones

•  Puppy biting: ignore the dog and become still, end play time, time out or water break

•  Reward for sitting while putting on collar/harness/leash

We are always communicating with our dogs, from the moment we wake up until the moment we fall asleep.  With every interaction our dog(s) learns from us.  It is important that we communicate clearly so the dog(s) understand us clearly.  The above tips will help you communicate with your dog.  Remember to practice consistency and patience!

Also, read our blog post on 6 tips for successful dog training.