Ask any Florida dog obedience training professional, and he/she will state that dogs need to be active. It is part of their natural make-up. But what if you already present plenty of play and your dog still has difficulty calming down? Here are a few techniques to implement teaching your dog to relax.
Ignore Unwanted Behavior
If you wish to relax, and have your dog remain calm during specific moments, then do not acknowledge your pup jumping on you or others in the room at the time. Ignore it. If you respond, your dog may interpret that as play interaction. On the other hand, if your dog is laying down or sitting still, then reach down and pet your pup. Pay attention. If your pup starts to get rambunctious from you petting, then stop. Repeat this until your pup learns to remain tranquil. Eventually, the repetition of acknowledging the wanted behavior computes with your dog. Your pup will make the correlation and learn if he remains calm, then attention is given.
Engage in Repetition
Once your dog understands the behavior you crave, provide your dog with treats during relaxation. Some k9 obedience dog training professionals suggest offering a piece of cheese, chicken or doggie treats every 10 seconds, as long as your pup is laying down calmly. Once your pup gets into the habit, widen the gap of time in-between treats. After a while of applying this technique, your dog shall initiate the calming state without any prompting from you.
Dogs are able to learn calming behaviors. Thus, do not underestimate the possibilities. Talk to a Florida dog training center and find out the different tools available allowing you to bond with your pup in a positive, loving, healthy manner.
Playing tug-of-war with your dog is an immense exercise teaching your dog to play nicely, listen to you during times of excitement, and allow your dog to release canine instinct of pulling and tugging in a fun atmosphere. The first thing you need to do is get a suitable toy.
Appropriate Tug-of-War Toy
Find a toy that is soft, comfortable and easy to hold. Do not get anything that will snag in the dog’s teeth or snap out easily. Some experts suggest using toys made from bungee material. There are also toys with handles. Choose one that is suitable for you and your pup.
How to Teach Your Dog to “Drop It”
This part matters significantly when playing the game tug-of-war. It teaches your dog the “give” or “drop it” command. It helps your pup understand these commands while having fun. One way to get your pup to understand to release the toy is by using treats.
Treats are a necessary item to keep on-hand when teaching commands. This is how it works with “drop it.” While you two are playing tug-of-war, say the command, “Drop it,” and let go of the pull on the toy. Keep holding the toy but do not place any tension on it. Now, this is where the treats come in. With your other hand, place a treat in front of your pup’s nose. Do not give it to your dog. Just place it in front of the nose. The dog will drop the toy to focus on smelling the treat. Once the dog drops the toy, reward your dog with the treat and lots of positive reinforcement. Then, repeat the same action again until your dog understands “drop it” command.
This is only one tip on how to play tug-of-war with your dog. To find out more about the benefits and teaching your dog these healthy, interactive, physical activities with positive reinforcement check out Florida dog obedience training or k9 training today.
Ask any Florida dog obedience training professional, and he/she will state that dogs need to be active. It is part of their natural make-up. But what if you already present plenty of play and your dog still has difficulty calming down? Here are a few techniques to implement teaching your dog to relax.