Ways to Encourage Good Behaviors in Dogs
When someone adopts a puppy, they must understand that destructive behaviors are bound to happen. The best way to approach these situations is to know how to deal with them. Even dogs that you have had for several years can experience destructive behaviors. Below are some tips on how you can help your four-legged friend learn good behaviors quickly.
- Promote Calm Behavior – It is not uncommon for a dog to get extremely excited, especially when they see its owner. This is a natural reaction to them. Dogs usually portray excitement when we come home. Try to greet your dog with a calm greeting method, or do not greet them at all. Do not touch or speak to them if you do not like how your dog is greeting you at the door. As hard as it is, ignore them and walk away. Once your dog understands their unwarranted behaviors, you can praise them and reward them with a treat.
- Less Noise – Dogs’ barking and loud noises are other common problems. This can be challenging to address because our natural response may be to tell the dog to stop or to distract them with a ball. This rewards the barking and noise with attention which will not help the situation. We recommend that you use positive reinforcement to stop your dog from barking. As difficult as it may be, ignore the barking and loud noises until your dog stops. Once your dog stops, give them what they want or reward them with a treat.
- “Come” – It may be frustrating when your dog doesn’t know what to do when you say “come.” Keep in mind that this doesn’t always mean that they are being disobedient. Your dog may not understand the command. How can you address this? Use the phrase” come,” Once your dog acknowledges it and looks over at you, you will toss them a treat. You can eventually drop the treat at your feet, and your four-legged friend will make their way over to you.
Promoting calm behavior and teaching your dog to be less noisy and to “come” will encourage good behavior. As always, a lot of practice and patience go a long way! You know your dog best, and finding ways to promote good behavior will ensure that they are the best pet on the block!
