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Cindy writes that it has
become quite a challenge to decide on a particular
training style to implement with her dog.
There are numerous
trainers in her area to choose from. She's gone to a few
of them, and each seems to have a different approach to
remedy her dog's behavior.
The difficulty is in
deciding which training method is the right one. Which
technique or method works the best?
Anyone who knows their
stuff, Cindy, will tell you there is more than one way
to train a dog. One of the terrific challenges in
working with dogs is adjusting training plans according
to each individual. A trainer must have the ability to
provide realistic options that are effective,
appropriate and realistic for each owner and her dog.
Rather than deciding on a definitive right versus wrong
approach, I suggest you ask yourself the following:
Is the technique you are
being taught effective?
If you and your trainer
are working to teach your dog to do something or refrain
from doing something, the technique should show positive
results fairly quickly. If it is not getting you closer
to your training goal, your trainer should be able to
suggest several alternative approaches.
Do you feel comfortable
implementing the techniques being taught to you?
Have you been given
enough information to apply the techniques properly, and
can you physically do what is being asked of you? There
are some trainers who still recommend a physical,
hands-on approach to working with dogs, but this is not
at all necessary. Training skills based on the science
of operant conditioning embrace the concept of little or
no physical handling, which many people prefer, and some
require.
Bottom line, if you are
unwilling or unable to implement the techniques being
presented to you, find someone who is more suitable for
you and your dog.
How is the training
approach affecting the relationship between you and your
dog?
Ideally, proper
instruction should provide you with a means to
communicate with your dog and better understand the
canine perspective. The bond you have should become
stronger, and your relationship enhanced. If the
training methods you are implementing are causing your
dog to submit to you, become frightened or wary of you,
or distrusting of you, the training is destined to break
down, right along with your relationship.
What is the dog getting
out of the deal?
Old-style,
"do-it-or-else" training relies on the threat
and/or implementation of punishment to keep the dog
obedient. But this misses the point completely — dogs
will logically and naturally repeat or offer behavior
that works for them.
Modern training uses
rewards in many forms, from treats to physical praise,
access to the yard to snuggling on the couch, or a quick
game of tug to a ride in the car, to train and manage
the dog's behavior in all situations. It is much easier
to control a dog who genuinely wants to behave the way
you've told him to than the dog that must be forced or
corrected into compliance.
Listen to your little
voice, Cindy. Training your dog should be productive,
enjoyable and beneficial for you both.
———
(Lisa Moore's
pet-behavior column appears once a month on the Weekly
Pet Page. Write to her in care of LifeStyles, The
Modesto Bee, P.O. Box 5256, Modesto 95352.)
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