Training
Methods for Behavior Problems
Dog training methods are plentiful, but the most effective way
to train your dog is to match the behavior that needs to be corrected
with the training method that best suits the temperament of your
dog and your personal lifestyle. It's important to choose a training
method that you can fully embrace and follow-through with because
you must do so in order for the training to be successful. In
fact, However, if you consistently apply a proper training technique
and add commitment and patience into the mix, you can make an
enormous difference in your dog's life.
Common behavior problem: BARKING
Barking is one of the primary ways in which dogs communicate.
However, habitual or chronic barking presents many challenges
for dog owners. While a barking dog can offer protection to its
family, a dog that doesn't know when to stop barking tests the
patience of his family - and attracts the ire of neighbors. It's
important to teach your dog that barking is only permitted under
certain circumstances, such as when smoke alarms sound or noises
are heard outside a window.
Solution
option #1: Verbal commands and treats
One way to train your dog to stop barking is through the use of
verbal praise coupled with rewards such as food and toys. The
process is simple when coupled with consistency:
• Attach the dog's lead to a fence and stand about 3 feet
away. Tease the dog by showing it a toy, and give a food reward
when he barks with frustration.
• Put the toy away, but keep it visible, and change the
reward from a food treat to a verbal "Good dog" when
the dog barks.
• Give the command "Speak" the moment the dog
barks, then give the toy as a reward. Correct timing is essential
here. By observing the dog's body language, you can anticipate
his bark.
•
Once the dog understands "Speak", give the command "Quiet"
when the dog is barking. Give the toy reward as soon as the dog
stops barking, but put the toy away and command "No"
if it continues. Do not give a reward to a barking dog.
• After teaching the dog to bark or be quiet when you are
near, move a short distance away from it with potential reward
visible to the dog. Patiently repeat the exercise from the beginning,
until the dog learns to respond to the commands.
•
Return to the dog and reward it with its favorite toy. Continue
repeating the exercise until the dog consistently responds to
intermittent rewards while secured to the fence. Then release
the dog from the fence and continue training.
Solution option #2: Bark Collars
• Bark control aids like electronic
bark collars are training tools designed specifically
to address habitual chronic barking. It's important to note that,
while these tools can help you control your dog's barking, they
must be used in tandem with an on-going training program based
on consistency, praise, and other rewards.
• Electronic collars use sound and/or vibration to sense
when your dog is barking and deliver a harmless electrical stimulation
to the dog's neck. In short order, your dog will associate his
barking with the stimulation and stop this unwanted behavior to
avoid the correction. These collars vary by the number of adjustable
levels of correction intensity, battery type, and ease of use.
Common behavior problems: CONTAINMENT & BEHAVING OFF-LEAD
Training your dog to stay within the boundaries you have set for
him and to respond to your commands when he is off-leash is no
small task. Dogs have a nearly uncontrollable urge to wander and
explore which must be curtailed for their own safety.
Solution
option #1: In-Ground and Wireless Fences
Your dog can be trained to stay in his own backyard, whether there
is a physical fence keeping him there - or not. "Invisible"
fences set up boundaries that your dog cannot cross
without receiving a mild electrical stimulation. A transmitter
sends a message to the special training collar your dog wears
whenever he gets too close to the boundaries you've established
until he learns to respect those boundaries. Training generally
takes a few weeks and must be practiced with consistency to be
effective.
Solution option #2: Remote Training Collars
Similar to bark collars, remote
training collars deliver a mild electrical stimulation.
However, with a remote training collar, you control the timing
and level of the stimulation using a handheld transmitter. Your
dog should have a basic understanding of obedience before you
begin training him with the remote trainer. You'll want to establish
a regular training schedule and choose a location that is as distraction-free
as possible.
Some
of the benefits of this method include:
• Timing. With a handheld transmitter, you can communicate
with your dog instantly, regardless of whether he is near or far.
• Effectiveness. You can deliver your command in a clear
and concise manner, regardless of the size of your dog - or your
size.
•
Consistency. Consistency is the key to successful training and
you are much more likely to consistently insist on correct behavior
when you can communicate with your dog at the touch of a button.
•
Understanding. When your dog understands what you're telling him,
he develops respect. When he respects you, he wants to please
you.
Remember, training your dog is one of the best gifts you can give
him. An obedient dog is a happy dog that is cherished by his owner.
For more detailed information on training methods
as they pertain to behavior issues, browse through these links:
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