Tuesday Training Byte: How to get your pup to listen

I read and hear it all the time: people tell me their dog just will not listen or is stubborn. If you talk to a dog behaviorist, they will tell you that dogs do not really possess that emotion. So why is it that one time the dog does what it is told to do and the next time just looks at you like you are an alien? In a word: engagement. Dog's do not understand spoken language very well. They do understand your body language, your emotions, and your smile. So if they don't really understand language how do I get my dog to actually pay attention? Here are some tips:

Teach the "watch me" command. Sit in a chair with some high value treats such a string cheese or cut up hot dogs. Hold a little piece near your dog's nose so he smells it, and then immediately bring the treat up to your check while you say "watch me!". When the dog gives you eye contact, immediately mark the behavior with a "Yes!" then give him the treat. Do this about 5 times. On the next session. do not hold the treat near your pup's nose. As he approaches you, just bring the treat up to your check while you say "watch me!", then mark and reward the eye contact. On the next session, stand up with your dog on a leash at your left side. Wait until your dog is not looking at you, then say "Watch me!", and bring the treat up to your check. Repeat this command, mark and reward a few times. Now you can start heeling your dog. If your dog begins to pull or nose to the ground, stop and say watch me. This time do not use the treat by your check as a lure for the eye contact. If your dog gives eye contact at just the command, praise him well and give a treat. Then start off at the heel again and repeat the process when he is not paying attention. For a dog to be engaged, we have to make it fun, interesting, and worthwhile for the dog to stop doing the things that dogs do like chasing squirrels and sniffing, etc, and pay attention to us. I keep little training treats in my pocket. This way, when my dog without any command from me, sits and gives me eye contact, I can toss them a treat. Pay attention when you dog sits nicely by you when he wants attention, and reward that good behavior rather than waiting until he is jumping up or finding his own entertainment. Before long your dog will realize the best place to be is near you and gazing into your eyes, waiting for direction.

Happy training!