Getting Your Dog to Stay In Attention

When we talk about problem dogs we need to go back to the moment they are born or perhaps the moment they come into our homes as a new member of the family. Can you imagine what it would be like if your puppy would instantly look at you when you said their name? It can come in handy quickly. Like when they’re about to chew on the table Aunt Matilda gave you and it’s been in the family for hundreds of years. Or when they’re ready to dash into the street after a ball and a car is coming. 

Teaching attention is something that’s not even thought of until problems start developing– then frustration starts and all becomes a vicious circle. Typically, we start to see attention problems develop between the ages of 6-15 months; this is when the animal shelters begin to take in puppies and young dogs. For many people, they don’t think there is an answer. 

Start with a Good Foundation

When you’re working with a dog– regardless of if they’re a puppy, an adolescent, or a mature dog– everything you teach your dog builds on the foundation of “attention”. You want your dog to pay attention to your command every time. 

Use Training Aids When Necessary

Off-leash training should wait for a while until you’re confident in your dog’s recall and attention. A long line attached to a collar or harness both helps with leash training and acts as a guide to direct your dog where you want their attention to be. 

Food, toys, and treats might be another training aid that motivates your dog to focus on your command. Try teaching your dog to do something you want before being rewarded. For example, teach your dog to sit before meals. The meal is the reward for sitting. 

Call to Attention

You need to decide what training technique works for you to keep your dog’s attention. Clickers, training collars, food, and more can all be effective tools to help. 

If you’re struggling to figure out what works for you and your dog, contact our professional dog trainers in Reno.