Teaching Self Control

Why do some dogs lunge at other dogs or people, while others are perfectly calm in the face of distractions? The short answer is obedience, which is nothing more than a dog exhibiting self control. So how does a dog learn self control? He must be taught, just as he must be taught to sit or come when called. Here are some guidelines:

• Be Calm - Dogs can sense your energy, so you need to be in control when he is excited. Harsh verbal or physical corrections will only cause his excitement to intensify - i.e. tension creates more tension.
• Train - Pulling on the leash just teaches your dog to pull back (go ahead, try pulling on the arm of somebody and see if they don't pull back!). Instead, give a command such as sit (you may have to use treats in the beginning to get his attention). When he complies, loosen the tension on the leash. Remember, tension creates more tension.
• Practice - You can't expect to go on a walk today and have your dog control himself when he sees that squirrel. Start by practicing sits and loose leash walking in distraction free areas. Slowly introduce more distractions as days and weeks progress, all the while being calm and in control (because tension creates.....you got it!)

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