CREATING WELL MANNERED DOGS THROUGH EDUCATION AND TRAINING

When you were at school, did you work especially hard for some teachers and not for others? Relationship is key in the learning process.

It’s no different when training your dog. The question I ask is, ‘What is your relationship with your dog like? Are they motivated to work with you?

What’s your communication with them like? Is your communication clear, consistent and calm?

What about reinforcements? Are the rewards what your dog wants? Are they high value? Are they generous? Remember, rewards are not always food; they may be toys, a tennis ball or praise and affection.

Know your dog. Know their language: read their stress and know how to reduce it. Relationship is knowing the other party and wanting to do the best – for them.

Sometimes it just means that we have got to stop and listen a little longer.

Be good to yourself – be kind to your dog!