Everyone wants a well-behaved dog and correcting dog behavior incorrectly can often make matters worse or create problems in addition to those that already exist. Here are three common mistakes people make when it comes to training their dog.
Inconsistency Prevents Understanding
Inconsistency is probably the biggest problem when correcting dog behavior. All people who are around the dog on a regular basis should know and understand what is expected of him. If a behavior is unacceptable, the dog should be corrected every time. So long as he is corrected at the time of the action, he will associate the correction with the act and will eventually stop doing it.
Ignoring Bad Behavior
Ignoring bad behavior because "he'll outgrow it" is the wrong approach to teaching your dog to behave well. By ignoring bad behavior (jumping up, chewing, aggression, etc.) you're telling your dog that those acts are acceptable. You must correct and teach the dog the appropriate action immediately. After all, you are the leader and they will take their cue from you.
Saying Dog's Name With "No!"
So many people use the word "No" with their dog's name. Dog's quickly put a negative meaning behind "No" and used in conjunction with their name, tells them their name, not the action, is bad. Simply say "No" when the bad behavior occurs so they'll understand the action is bad.
While our efforts in correcting dog behavior have good intentions behind them, correcting our own behavior can provide clearer, less confusing direction to our dogs and result in a better behaved companion.