Dogs need a leader, and if
you do not step up to the plate and become that leader, your dog will - even
reluctantly.Leaders do not listen
to anyone else.So if you want your
dog to listen to you, you must become a leader.Here are some exercises to help you achieve that role.
Nothing
in life is free. Make sure you remind your dog no pleasure comes without
listening to you.Teach him to sit
for dinner, Lie down before doors are opened etc.Because your dog is very clever we should build a long
routine that varies with every task, For example:Sit, down, shake, - as one routine.Remember to change the routines every
day; do not repeat the exact routine every day.Please try a minimum of 3 commands for every pleasure your
dog gets.
Humans
go first through doorways and up and down stairs.Teach your dog to Sit and Stay until he is release through
main doors (outside, inside), up and down stairs.
Down/Stay
sessions for five to twenty minutes at a time to help teach your dog self
control and give him a constructive job to perform around distractions and
company.
No
dogs on the beds or furniture. (If you can not abide by this rule, only allow
your dog up by invitation – or command!!!).Tin foil or other devices
to keep him off the couch when you are not there is important, or he will still
think it is his throne.Limit his area to the kitchen where there is no
furniture.
Don't repeat a command more than once. If your dog does not respond on the first try, help
lure him into position.Be
sure you have plenty of treats for the next few months to help reward him for
listening.
Ignore
your dog if he nudges you for attention. Leaders give attention on their own
terms, not when their dogs demand.Ignore your dog if he is constantly pushing toys
at you.Leaders initiate play and
decide when the game starts and ends. This keeps a dog on his toes because he
never knows when the fun begins.If your dog comes over for attention, make him earn it first, then love
him up.
Limit
access to the home, or the dog can begin to protect his “kingdom”.It is your home, you are the leader,
and the dog has his special place.Front windows and furniture near that front area give the dog his
leadership command position.
Provide
consequences, ignore what you don’t like, avoid yelling at your dog for barking
or jumping for instance, from your dog’s perspective, any attention is better
than none.Speaking or touching to
the dog can often be mistaken for reinforcement.
Remember to use body language to communicate with your
dog.Stand up straight and tall
and use a calm voice.
