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Wednesday, 11/19/2008

Dog Training

There are certain times of the day when puppies display very active behavior. This is most frequently observed in the morning and early evening, with the later usually the most extreme. During these times, owners find that they have very little control over their dogs. When this happens, remind yourself that it is normal dog behavior and patiently work though the problem.

You should discourage reinforcing extreme activity at this time. This could be as simple as ignoring your dog. Some people try to punish their dogs, which can lead to reinforcing an avoidance response. Punishment can also get a play solicitation response from the dog, which will actually make the dog even more active as it tries to solicit play to break the tension.

If you are training your dog and have done the proper preparation (both for yourself and your dog), times of extreme activity can be great training opportunities. Preparation for you begins with the having the proper mind set. The next step is to have any training equipment you might need.

Training tips for controlling puppies during active periods

• Compliment the pup's active behavior with the opposite, calm behavior in yourself

• Don't punish the dog or get upset

• Always have training supplies available (food rewards, toys, etc.)

• Make certain your dog has had its required exercise for the day

• Always build trust with touch and work though any avoidance responses

Crate Training

Your dog is a pack animal and your family will become its pack with you as the leader. It will claim a territory within your home and create a den somewhere in it. This is where a crate enters the picture by providing that secure area where your new friend can get away from it all.

A dog will typically not mess his sleeping area so you must prepare a start-up schedule to assure he is trained properly to exercise outside when necessary. Here are a few simple guidelines:

• Your crate should be placed in a "people" area such as kitchen, family room, or bedroom so your pet will be able to interact with his "pack." There should be no drafts or direct heat and you may want to place a blanket over the crate at night.

• Remove all collars and tags before placing your pet in it’s crate to prevent possible strangulation. Introduce your pet to it’s crate by placing treats in and around it’s "den" and by placing a toy inside for chewing.

• Place your pet in the crate and offer him a treat. The first few times the pet should be in the crate for only a short time and then you should leave the room.

• At the first sign of any response to your leaving the room, such as barking, howling, or crying, you should tell him "NO" in a sharply raised voice. If there is no response to your raised voice, you may use coins shaken in a can or slap a rolled newspaper sharply on the door while saying "NO".

• Typically, your dog will react to the above actions and become quiet. Keep him inside the crate for about 10 minutes and then let him out. Be careful of too much petting or praise upon emergence, as he will equate being out of the crate as good.

• After a "free" interval of 30-45 minutes, repeat Step 3 above but extend the time he is in the crate. Repeat these steps until he can remain in the crate for an extended period.

• Praise your dog when it is in the crate, give him a toy, and reward him after coming out so he will associate his "den" as good. DO NOT use the crate as punishment as this will provide a bad association.

• By instinct, a dog will not eliminate in his living space. Therefore, the crate should fit the dog's need to stand, turn around, and lie flat. If too large, the dog may eliminate in one area and live in another. A partition or divider may be used to assure he does not have that extra space.

When your dog has been properly crate trained, you will find it going to its "den" at appropriate times. And you will be comfortable knowing your pet is secure.