Trained Dogs are Happier Dogs

madison@sitmeanssit.com| tel: 608-561-3647

Some people think that training their dog or educating a dog on what is the right behavior is somehow unfair or mean to the dog. Based on experience and observation I believe the opposite is true. Not showing the dog boundaries and the correct behavior and expectations is cruel and unfair to the dog. In fact, most submissive and aggressive dogs I have met are largely that way because of a lack of structure in the dogs life. The dog will think you don’t know how to lead and will need to try and figure it out himself in this human and confusing world.

While I certainly do not believe in the need to be “alpha” over my dog – meaning I do not believe I need to be aggressive and dominant with most dogs – dogs are rarely aggressive to each other in their own pack. They know who the leader is. In your home, your dog does not understand the human world he lives in. Imagine how frustrating and confusing our world is for your dog. Dogs are not people and we should not apply the same ideals to dogs – it is not fair to them. Dogs want you to be the “alpha dog” – meaning the leader not the aggressor. They must be educated and also feel that you are in control. This does not mean you are aggressive to the dog or abusive. It means you give clear direction to the dog; the dog knows what it is expected to do; the dog has the opportunity to work with you (even a simple walk) frequently. Dogs want to work and have something to do. Training and obedience is how this is accomplished. Both you and your dog are going to have a much better, closer relationship. You will also be able (and want to) spend much more time with your dog(s).

A dog does not want to upset the household. A dog does not know unless taught that it is not supposed to go to the bathroom in the house or chew on the coffee table, or jump on people. He must be taught these things. And the best way for him to learn is by showing not disciplining. It is much easier to teach a dog to do something then to teach a dog not to do something. It also keeps your relationship non-confrontational, happier and fun! For example, you don’t teach a puppy to not go to the bathroom in the house, you teach the puppy to go to the bathroom outside and when he does you praise and play with him.

This seems simple when you think about it. And in many ways it is. However, sometimes dog owners need assistance with trying to think like the dog. A good training program will help you understand why a dog is behaving in a certain way and how to correct that behavior with a positive approach. Great dog trainers don’t train dogs, they train people. As a mentor of mine says, “I am not a great trainer because I can train any dog, which I can, I am a great trainer because I can train anyone to train their dog.” And, of course every dog is different and so is every person.

Once you have a well trained and obedient happy dog, you also may want to teach your dog more advanced behaviors and tricks. This can be fun and a great way to spend quality time with your dog. However, it is important to learn how to teach a dog the more advanced tricks so the dog (and owner) do not become frustrated. Just a little bit of patience allows for dogs to do amazing things and, most importantly, to have fun doing it.

Here at Sit Means Sit we believe that actions speak louder then words. Give us a call at 608-561-3647 to receive a Free evaluation and demonstration to help give you an idea of what you can expect, you can meet one of our dogs and we will show you improvement with your dog in just a few moments.