Why won’t he listen??
One of the most frustrating parts of dog training is trying to get your dog’s attention. Once we Have their attention, we can do most anything with them. Without their attention on us and not on the other dogs, the smells, the toys, the noise – LIFE- even things they already know they won’t do for us.
Its very sad. I tell the dogs that all the time “that was a very sad sit!” And since the dogs don’t speak English, I’m really saying that to the people so they know, that while dog did it, it wasn’t quite what I wanted.
Oh yeah. I'm excited. SO excited.
So – why won’t your dog listen? Listening is a skill. Just like sit, and watch, and down and loose leash walking. And think of it from their point of view – they are only in this fascinating place for a short time – you are going to be there later. Why should I stop smelling all these yummy yummy smells, or playing with that other dog, for silly ol’ you??? You will be there in ten minutes. They might not be. I can sit Later for you. It will be FINE.
Polite puppies sniff noses First.
Sitting for you has no great value for your dog – especially when compared with sniffing dog butt. Oh come 0n – think about it! Dog butt is Very High Value! Sit? Not so much….
The very first piece of homework I give people is to find out what motivates their dog. Just like with people, one size does not fit all. Just like with people, there are different things that get our dogs excited. Think about it – what motivates you might not motivate your sister or friend.
Mom likes chocolate. I can't have it. Not good for puppies at all!
I bring brownies to work and everyone drools. I had a manager a long time ago, who, hearing I had a VERY bad day at work, took me to the break room and fed me chocolate till I calmed down. Chocolate seems to improve many people’s moods. However – I heard a VERY nasty rumor once that Some people don’t like chocolate. Really! I KNOW – hard to imagine! But I’ve heard it enough, it must be true!
Dogs are the same way. They have their likes and dislikes too. Your goal is to find out what makes your dogs ears go up, their eyes get big and their body display that ‘ready for action!’posture.
Head scratch? Ohhh yeah....nice!
Some dogs are very food motivated. They will do anything for a yummy treat. We LIKE those dogs – treat motivated dogs are just so easy.
Some dogs like to play. I get the ball out and OH MY I have attention! “How can I get me some of that??” They say, all focused and ready.
Some like squeakies. Or tug games.
Bounce it again! I'll catch it!
Others work for praise. I know I like it. Others are wild about butt scratches, petting. Some need a combination. What works today for your dog might not work tomorrow. Its very important to have a few motivational tricks in your arsenal.
And to not over use them. Keep training times short and sweet and end while you both want more.
And one trick I’ve used a couple times – a gentle tail tug with a whiney, “Hey dog-dog – I’m still here- look at me!”
My mom has all my attention. For the moment.
Well, yeah, I know….not real professional – but – hey, sometimes it works, and I’m just all about doing what works.
What trick do you have to keep your dog excited and motivated?