Doggone It - SIT When You

 

Many of us who have enjoyed and loved a pet dog are all too familiar with the frustration of said pet ignoring one’s commands. I well remember Eva, my little fox terrier, who not only thought she was a racing dog, but also considered any open gate or door an invitation to escape, and as fast as possible. Many an hour did the family spend trying to catch up with her and lure her back, in an attempt to stop her from terrorizing the neighbor’s chickens.

Of course, other dog owners may experience worse problems. Some dogs not only bite the furniture, but also other dogs, and in some cases, even people. We’ve probably all heard of someone with a sorry story to tell of the misdemeanors of their beloved pet. We probably also know someone who, in hindsight, concluded it may have been better to get a goldfish.

Fortunately in this day and age of information sharing, there are some wonderful resources to help the owners of obnoxious – oh, that is, adorable – dogs. Such resources teach us how to take note of the negative behaviors we ourselves are unwittingly teaching our pets, as well as how to correct them by replacing them with new, effective techniques. Consistent reward approaches, and the right command with the right tone of voice at the right moment, and above all, showing the dog who is really boss, go a long way to training your dog to become a model member of the family.

With such a challenge before us, it is a relief to know that help is at hand. A number of people have compiled years of valuable experience and knowledge into learning resources for the benefit of the frustrated public. Such resources include online tutorials and downloads, video clips, articles and DVDs. There are also a great number of books for dog owners available too – although if your dog is a “chewer”, you might want to hide that particular book.

Just picture it – going for a jaunty walk with formerly-wild Rover, staying meekly to your heel, while you smile smugly at the other nearby dog walker, who is vainly trying to stop her spotted dalmatian from straining at the leash to reach the poodle on the other side of the pond. Your lips twitch knowingly, as she lurches towards the water, unavoidably doused by her pet’s splash. Of course, you are quick to tell her of the wonderful new skills you recently learned, whilst helping her out of the pond.

If you have a dog that is dragging you down to despair, then getting some professional expertise into your household may well save your dog’s bacon and your own sanity. It is most certainly likely to save your temper.