Stopping a Jumping Dog

Some dogs or maybe that’s most dogs, will attempt to greet a human by jumping.  If only our arms were connected to our knees, they wouldn’t have to jump to get a pet.  It goes without saying we also contribute to this sometimes negative behavior by unintentionally rewarding the dog’s jumping by touching them in some way.  Even if it’s just to push them off.  Any affection in this case equals, “good dog!”

Some dogs will approach and attempt to jump until their hips no longer allow it!  For (exuberant) dogs like this, don’t wait for their paws to be on you.  As they approach, tell them, “no jumping.”  When my hands are free, I move my forearm in a back and forth motion in front of me as I say, “no jumping.”  When all four paws are on the floor (and only then) do I give affection or treat.  I have had great success with ignoring the dog upon entering the home.  COMPLETELY!  No words, eye contact, or stopping as you enter.  Walk in as if there isn’t a dog and move to an area away from the door without acknowledging the dog until they have calmed down.

I use the word, “off” in the event I’m not quick enough to step back or turn prior to the dog’s paws touching me.  Off is also used for counter surfing, or being on anything they shouldn’t be even if it’s just for a time; as in, “off” the furniture.

The beauty of having a trainer work with you is they can also do a leash correction and work with the dog as it approaches you and others.   They learn how to greet in a way that will get them the attention and affection they desire without leaving their imprint on someone’s blouse!

I also want to add that if the only exercise or energy focus your dog gets is when you walk in the door, jumping should be expected.  Even having a favorite toy for them to run and fetch when you walk in can help use their excitement more appropriately.

I hope these tips help.  Please contact me if you have any questions regarding your jumping dog.

What’s In Your Collar?

There are so many options when it comes to purchasing a collar for your dog. Should you use a harness? What type of harness is best? If using a collar, is the flat nylon style adequate? Some trainers will only train using a prong/pinch (or power steering collar, as I call them). My personal
favorite is the Martingale-style training collar.

Let’s face it, dog training is dog training when it comes to basic commands. It’s what happens when the leash and collar come off that is the true test. A lot of dogs go into their training mode when a specific collar is used for training versus the one used for a walk. They quickly learn what is expected depending on their “jewelry.”  Much like a service or search and rescue dog knows it’s working when wearing a vest.  Dogs are smart!  We train them well (or they train us well).  =)

I make certain that any dog I work with knows their commands regardless of their collar or harness. The collar and leash are tools. The end result is not that your dog responds nicely during the 15 – 20 minutes of training, but rather they listen, respect, and want to please you when training is done. Training becomes a way of life. Aren’t we always teaching others how to treat us!

After the basics, I suggest switching to a 15 – 20 foot leash to perfect “stay.” It’s also beneficial for teaching them to “come” and for distance learning. Too often, after puppy class, the leash and training are set aside until the dog does something not so pleasing to the human. I can assure you, the dog is always great at being a dog and not so great at thinking like a human.  It takes (a lot) of time and consistency to create a mutually respectful relationship with your dog.

As a side note, I have seen too many dogs who were broken (for lack of a better word) by harsh training using a prong collar. Not every dog is the same, and it’s important to be willing to try different tools to see what works for your dog. If a trainer/behaviorist only does it one way, I’d find another trainer. No two dogs are the same any more than two humans.

I am happy to answer any questions you have, and if you live in the Palm Springs area, I would love the opportunity to work with you and your fur family.

How To Keep Your Dog In The Yard

The secret to keeping your dog safely in the yard is to build a fence!  I wish it were easier than that.  When we move into a home, it is very clear to us that this is our house and this is our yard.  Dogs don’t.  They learn where they live, but for the most part, a yard is a yard is a yard.

Some dog breeds have less of a prey drive and are more connected to the needs and wants of their human pack.  They may never even consider wandering off unless it is to follow you.  Others, appear to go deaf and experience a sudden loss of memory when instinct or wanderlust kicks in.  Dogs can be taught the boundary of a yard, but even the best trained dog may run after a foot-loose rabbit. (Can’t you just hear their, “woo-hoo – got me a wabbit!   Yard?  Boundary?  Give me a second!”)

It is very important to continually reinforce their recall (coming to you) because if, or should I say when they take off, they will respond to your call.   At that moment, their response to “come” is more important than the fact they left the yard.

Don’t ask me how I know this!  =)