Training Tips and Tricks
Very important! New objects in the environment - especially ones that move - can freak dogs out. It’s not funny to watch a dog struggle. Be mindful, be prepared, and load up that treat bag!
#ysdlearnAs each holiday comes around the sundial, it presents new challenges for worried dogs. Halloween might not include backyard fireworks (yet), but it does offer surprises where dogs otherwise walk comfortably every day.
If you're not already walking your dog with a good treat pouch hooked to your waist, you might be missing a good opportunity to practice counter-conditioning skills. When you encounter any graves, ghosts, skeletons or jack o'lanterns, watch your dog's reaction. If you see any hesitation or concern, back away and offer food with a happy voice (you know the voice - the kind that brings neighbors to their windows with concerned expressions). The most important piece is to allow your dog to make his own choice about approaching.
It's not necessary to feed only approaches and curiosity. Feeding worry can also be very helpful.
If your dog is significantly frightened, leave and give it another go tomorrow; there are weeks to go for changing your dog's emotional response from fear to indifference (or, more likely, excitement about more cheese).
If your “trainer” is choking, jerking or shocking your dog - among other things - they are not *training*. Don’t spend your hard earned money on someone to abuse your dog.
You can do better! Positive reinforcement training will *never* create fear, anxiety or aggression!
#ysdlearn
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Thank you for sharing ❤️
A dog park is a really nice idea in theory, but consider the points made here. Perhaps play dates with family, friends, and neighbor dogs?
#ysdlearn
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.I have always thought that dog parks were a very bad idea— for all of the above reasons. I will never take my dog to one.