“Training is a process, not an event.”
(Robert Kerr, founder of U Dog)
I don’t believe there is only one way to train a dog. A well behaved dog is the result of a developing relationship. This relationship is built by creating trust and respect. Exercise, leadership and socialization all play key parts in developing that trust and respect. Fulfillment of needs must be met on both sides. Activities of all kinds can help fulfill needs and solidify a relationship.
It seems that behavioral problems are more and more prominent, and happen with various dogs of all ages, breeds, size, and sex. The time it takes and the methods used should be looked at individually, developing a plan that works for human and dog. Some people are more comfortable with an ABC approach, following very specific steps in a very specific order. Unfortunately our canine companions may not always appreciate such an organized approach, especially if they are not balanced to start with. Obedience classes for example can be wonderful. Exercise, leadership and socialization should all be important parts of the class, and a creative instructor can make it fun for owner and dog. For a dog with behavioral issues though, these classes can be a nightmare for dog and owner. Generally they don’t deal with problem behaviors and often the clients are embarrassed and frustrated as their beloved pets “fail” at class. This cookie cutter, step by step approach puts everyone on the same page at the same time, when in reality every situation is different.
Setting up a training “event” often focuses on having a relationship for that specific time. Quite often the dog and owner know that they are “in training” during that hour for that week’s event. The dog performs as expected, the owner is pleased and then it is over and everything falls apart when they get home. I often hear, “But he is so good in class!” Just because your dog can sit and stay doesn’t mean he won’t come home, barge through the door, pull your lunch off the counter and nearly knock you down the stairs as he pushes past you. Leadership must be integrated into the rest of your daily life. If you have respect and trust, obedience comes much easier as your dog is more willing to cooperate with you.
Events” also lack purpose. Going to a location to sit, stay, down and come “because I said so,” quickly becomes repetitive and boring for your four legged friend. Honestly, they knew how to do most of that before they came into your lives. It is our communication that is not clear, and as we are learning….over and over and over again…..we can create frustration and disinterest in our dogs.
Training in the moment has several advantages. You take the opportunities to communicate as they happen which provides a reason for what you are doing. It is taking place in an everyday situation so therefore is part of your life, not a made up event. It also is generally a quicker exercise. You may have to repeat and practice that particular thing in order to create understanding, but if you communicate clearly and get what you are asking for you can move on, coming back to try again later instead of doing it endlessly, right then.
Quitting when you get what you want creates a release and relaxation. The dog gets to finish on a good note, gain confidence, and have an idea about what you want without you drilling him. If he gets it why do it another 10 times to make him prove it? Wouldn’t he start to think he missed something and look for a different answer? Sometimes I think this is why they “suddenly” won’t do something. They sit 10 times in a row and then seem to forget how. Human nature might see this as the dog challenging you and then force the issue until they get it right….again. I believe that they just start to think you must want something else as you keep repeating yourself no matter what they do!
Some changes will come very quickly. Sometimes a behavior that is deeply ingrained over years can take time, patience and practice. The dog may be confused about why you are changing the rules after so much time. Make sure you practice when you don’t need it to happen so you can focus on what you are doing.
Celebrate the small successes and integrate new challenges as you go along. Having a relationship with a well behaved dog means you can enjoy each other without having to constantly command or micro manage their every move. A partnership where both parties have their needs met is satisfying and fulfilling. How do you rate your relationship with your dog?
Cheryl Hughes
U-Dog
Mobile Dog Care - Nanaimo BC
Vancouver
Island Canada 
