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Why Some Of You Have "Problem" Dogs
Dogs are Pack Animals!
When we bring a dog into our home to be a companion and protector, we often do not understand how the dog sees the world. Dogs by nature, are pack animals. They see their people family as their new "pack."
All packs to them, must have a leader, and a structure of authority (NOT dominance), in order for them to understand what is expected of them. They will happily and willingly follow the right 'leader'. This is what they live for. They will fit into the pack in a way they see as 'their job'. If there is no obvious leader in their family, they will take that job on themselves. Since this is not really their natural 'place' in the pack, it is a very scary and confusing job for them. They may even become aggressive and overly protective out of insecurity. All the family members must take their 'place' in the pack for your dog to understand.
If
a dog is kept outside, tied up, or not allowed to interact with their 'pack',
they often become frustrated and confused. They may bark, dig, whine or develop
other bad habits. Remember, in nature, being 'banished' from the pack is the
worst thing that can happen to them.
In order to be a strong, loving leader in their 'pack', we have to to communicate in a way they understand. When a dog misbehaves, it is not because they are 'bad', it is because they do not yet understand what is expected of them. Usually, this is because WE do not understand what is expected of us.
How to Love Your Dog
NEVER . . .
Never . . yell at your dog. You must be a calm, confidant pack leader, and when you yell, they see you as out of control. Correct their behavior quietly, but firmly. You may need to repeat the correction a few times, but your dog will quickly understand what is expected. They want to please you.
Never . . physically threaten your dog. If you raise your hand or any object to threaten them, again, you are out of control in their eyes. They will be frightened, and immediately forget what they may have done. Calm, firm, consistent correction is the only way they can understand.
Never . . ignore your dog. Remember, they need to be part of the pack. If you come home from work, feed the dog, then put him outside, he will feel "banished" and bored. A few minutes each day of playing ball, a walk, practicing a new trick, just a little undivided attention, will make him happy to fit into your busy schedule.
What Your Dog Needs
Exercise:
Daily (or frequent) walks or exercise are critical to a happy dog. A 15-30
minute brisk walk (or run) will give him the exercise he needs. Young dogs
especially need to burn off energy before they can focus on learning. It also
gets him out of the house, keeps him from getting board, and lets him learn how
to act in other environments.
Training: After the exercise, spend a few
minutes on training. Good leash training is important to your dog's safety, or
if he's already good on a leash, work on a something new. This training is
your dog's 'work', and is needed for him to feel confident.
Always have your dog walk to your side or behind you, remember YOU must be
the "pack leader". Do not let him pull you, and do not pull back. When
leash training your dog, place the lead high on the neck just behind the ears
(not down at the base). Keep the leash short, but not tight,
keeping his head up. Have him sit while you close the door to leave. Walk
confidently and looking forward, not down at him. When he strays, immediately
give a quick tug, then loosen the leash. After several tugs, he will understand
what you want, and that you are the leader. No treats, bribes or dragging
necessary.
Play Time and Affection: Now it's time for fun. Your dog has burnt off excess energy on his walk, done his work, and is now ready for his reward. Food treats are less effective than some fun time with his "pack leader". Play ball, Frisbee, or just pet and praise him for the good job he's done. A little cuddle time will let him know he's loved.
Remember, exercise first to burn off energy so he can focus. Training second, he needs to have a job to do. Then the reward, love and affection.
This may all sound like it takes too much time. But in 30-60 minutes a day, you can make the world a wonderful place for your dog. If it's not possible daily, then try for a few times a week on a regular schedule. The most important thing for your dog is that he understands what is expected of him, and that he is included in the pack. Once he understands, he will follow your lead unconditionally, and become the loyal, loving member of your 'pack' that he was meant to be.