SELF CONTROL EXERCISES

Some pups are naturally calmer than others. But all dogs can learn self control if we help them.

In the beginning, if your pup is frequently frantic, avoid exposing him to more action than he can handle. For instance, pup might not be able to handle being on the sideline of an action-packed soccer game. You might have to take a chair or blanket some distance away. Watch and reward any signs of calmness, like sitting or lying down. Move closer very gradually as pup can handle it – over a period of weeks or even months.

Start by practicing sit and/or down in low distraction areas. Teach your dog that good stuff will come to him if he remains still. Work up the time from a few seconds to minutes, gradually. Once your dog understands that the way to get good stuff is to relax and be calm, start working with distractions. Then move to different locations but don’t give him more action than he can handle successfully. Remember, you must watch closely and reward for calm sitting or downs.

• Ask your dog to sit for all good things. Sit for doors to open, sit and wait for dinner (use the “Food bowl sit stay”). Sit for the leash to be put on, sit for petting. Sit for toys, sit before being allowed to play with other dogs. If your dog starts sitting on his own, praise that!

• Use the Leave It exercise. (Re-read the paper on that if you have forgotten.)

• Use the Tug game if your dog likes that. (Re-read the paper on that so you play by the rules.) Every 10 seconds, ask your dog to “give”, then “sit”. Reward the sit by resuming the game! Gradually ask for a longer sit before re-starting the game.

• Playing ball – ask your dog to sit before you toss the ball. As he learns, you can increase the time he waits before the ball (or any toy) is tossed. If he gets antsy and dances around, you do not toss.

• Look for opportunities to reward calmness. Pay attention and use praise and/or treats for any signs of self control.

Don’t expose your pup to more than he or she can handle. Use good management (re-read the paper if you have forgotten) while your pup is learning.

Copyright © Pat Scott CPDT

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