When it comes to dogs, so many of the unwanted behaviours are just patterns that have formed and become entrenched over time.
Many of them are reinforcing to the dog so why would they want to give them up?
Here’s a common one we get asked about all the time: getting a dog to go outside when asked.
Here’s the typical scenario.
You want your dog to go outside so you give a command (“Outside” or similar)
Dog doesn’t go outside
You go to get him to make him go outside
Dog turns it into a game and runs away (and maybe even steals something of yours on the way)
You chase him and all hell breaks loose
You give in, get a treat and bribe your dog to go outside
First mistake: giving the command to go outside when you are not in a position to enforce it if your dog refuses (you just tipped him off that it’s game on!).
Second mistake: reinforcing the behaviour by chasing him
Third mistake: further reinforcing the behaviour by rewarding with a bribe.
So, it’s time to create a new pattern:
Don’t announce to your dog what you want him to do.
Just pick up the lead and put it on (you could be going to do some training or go for a walk, anything. He won’t know if you don’t tell him)
Then give your command “outside” and walk him out the door.
Continue to use the lead until the action becomes synonymous with the command. It could take weeks or months for it to become an automatic response on your dog’s part. Repetition is the key.
Then try without a lead. If he doesn’t comply, go back to using the lead. It hasn’t replaced the old pattern yet.
Your dog must learn it’s not negotiable
Set your dog up for success by showing him what you want and expect. If he only knows one response that’s what he’ll default to. Replace old patterns with new ones so he can make a better choice.
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