There’s No Quick Fix To Training Your Dog

It never ceases to amaze me how many people expect a miracle when training their dogs. Whether they are starting out with a new puppy or wanting to correct behavioural issues, people expect to click their fingers and it happens. Of course there are also the realistic owners who know you don’t get results unless you work hard; training your dog doesn’t happen over night.

The biggest issue I always encounter when receiving enquires is the internet. From the moment people decide to buy a dog/puppy they over think things, researching the internet for ideas. The word that most often creates problems for owners is SOCIALISATION. It seems to be a buzz word for training your dog. New owners follow what they read online about the importance of socialisation and allow every dog and person to greet their new puppies when out.

Of course we want our dogs to get used to their surroundings and people they will see on a regular basis. However, I always say to people: “did you let you children play with strangers” or “did you let strangers approach your children when out walking?”. Obviously the answer is NO. So why do we think it’s acceptable to allow it to happen with our young dogs? What we are doing is setting ourselves up to fail. Why? Because we are teaching our puppies to run over to dogs and people. Firstly, it’s against the law to allow a dog off lead with no recall; secondly, you don’t know what dangers you dog may encounter. In general, letting a dog off the lead at such a young age is a recipe for disaster.

When I train my dogs I do nothing different than I ask of my clients. The advise I give is the same as I practice myself. Firstly, build your bond. We don’t need to bribe our dogs with food. Using food can set you up to fail in the future. Secondly, work on your basic commands. Thirdly, decide which direction to take. You may want to work you dog, go walking off lead or simply have a very well behaved family dog. No matter what you want from your dog if you lay solid foundations and think logically with your training you’ll succeed at every level.

Posted: February 15, 2022