Respect And Leadership

We all want our animals to love us. Along those same lines, we expect our children, parents and partners to love us. The difference lies within the conditions, or the lack thereof. We speak about how animals are all-forgiving and offer unconditional love and affection. As owners and leaders, we can offer unconditional love, but not unconditional affection. This is similar to saying that you always love your family, but sometimes you don’t like what one member may do or say.

Typically, a lack of respect leads to a dog making his or her own decisions. These decisions are made in regards to instant gratification (getting what he or she wants immediately) instead of long-term good behavior. Lack of respect can cause problems out of the home such as pulling on the leash, jumping on strangers and barking at distractions. In the home, it leads to stealing, chasing, counter-surfing, bumping into you and even knocking objects and people over.

It is important that before we worry about good or bad behavior, we set boundaries and expectations. If our expectations are unclear, how can they be followed? In addition, our dogs, just like our children, must care about the consequences. We cannot have a situation where we need “daddy.” It is, therefore, necessary that each individual is respected by the dog.

RESPECT:

1. Our dogs must be Responsive to our body language and vocal commands.

2. They must Earn praise, rewards and privileges. No treats just because and no free feeding. Remember everything in the house is yours first.

3. One of the most important aspects of a dog’s world is Space. Our dogs must respect not only our personal space but also our home. This includes acknowledging a buffer zone, responding attentively to a body block and not displacing (taking our spot) us from a couch and/or chair.

4. Patience is needed by both sides. We must be sure that we are communicating clearly and our dogs must wait until they are given that guidance.

5. They must be Eager to please, offer eye contact and follow through with commands.

6. This includes Checking In with you. Checking in is like a dogs saying “what’s next” or “what can I do for you.” Realistically this is the dog sitting and looking at you attentively.

7. We must be the Teachers. Dogs are like children and need guidance. Without boundaries in school there would be chaos. Think about the difference between recess and class time.

Every month or so, Sonia will answer questions from our members. To submit a question, please email us with the word "TRAINER" in the subject line. We regret that Sonia won't be able to respond personally to every question.

For more information about Sonia's services, please contact Sonia at:
Canine Techniques
www.CanineTechniques.com
603-475-5295
SMullen@CanineTechniques.com