Eliminating Bad Behavior in Your Dog
When your dog behaves in a manner that is not acceptable, it is time to diagnose the problem and deal with it in a calm and reassuring manner. Bad behavior will generally escalate over time and become extremely difficult to correct. The solution? Get to know your dog thoroughly and be aware. Remember that the completion of a bad behavior is in itself a reward. Why did your best friend relieve himself on your new carpet? Simple. It felt good. Why does your precious pet jump on all your friends? Because he wants to be a part of the party.
When you begin to housebreak your new puppy or dog, one good option to try first is crating. Dogs actually prefer dens or areas that are confinedhe just may not realize it yet. Put something into the crate that your dog really likesa special treat or toy. Eventually the whining will stop and he will become quite comfortable. If he does have an accident in the house, no punishment allowed! Move on and do not display negative behavior. Just love your little guy and remember he needs your affection above all else. Your best friend also needs to be taken outside frequently. If you have a fenced back yard, terrific. If not, talk him on walks with youyou will both benefit from the exercise and he will appreciate being praised when he does his business out doors.
Excitement is a natural element in the life of a dog. He loves anything that will arouse his interest. So when he jumps on all those guests the first minute they walk through the door, he is just demonstrating his pleasure. Your options are either no more guests or correct the behavior. Naturally, correcting the behavior is going to be your choice. Therefore, do not give your little pal the opportunity to be loose in the house once a guest enters. You should also consider teaching your dog that when guests do come over, he will always be appropriately dressed in a collar and leash. In most cases, this will do the trick.
Eliminating the opportunity for separation anxiety is very important in the relationship that you treasure with your dog. This little guy just wants to be close to you and not having you with him can cause extreme stress. Crating him with his special toys and treats will give him the feeling of safetyhe is by nature a “den animal”. Eventually, this will feel natural to him. This is a great way to stop the pacing, incessant barking and even digging and chewing.
Is there anything more exasperating for a dog owner than to arrive home and find trash all over the kitchen floor? And why would your dog do such a naughty thing? Simplehe wants to eat. The response needs to be immediate. Create a game plan for the entire family and follow it through. The next thing you need to do is let your little pal know this behavior is not acceptable. You can simply use the word “No” the next time you see him sniffing the trashcan. If this method does not seem to get through to him, simply do not allow him the opportunity to explore the trashmove it out of his reach.
Looking for excitement is as normal to your dog as breathing. And one of the things that excites him is rushing through the open door to play with the dog next door or just to say “hi” to the neighbors. This behavior can easily lead to tragedy. For the health and safety of your dog, he must be taught the COME and STAY commands. This will give you control over his actions and correct the unwanted behavior. Another option is to never allow your dog to be in that situation at all. Simply do not allow him to be loose in the house when a door is open. If he is very excitable and capable of rushing past you, make sure he is on a leash until he is completely trained.