Stopping your dog’s bad habits
by Beth Logan
We love our dogs, but honestly, isn’t there at least one thing you wish your dog didn’t do? With a little patience and effort, you can change that. Instead of trying to stop it, the trick is to encourage another behavior.
For example, let’s say your dog barks at everyone that walks past your house. Try tossing small kibble or treats at his butt when he barks. This will make him turn to see what is hitting him and then he’ll eat the treats. Eventually, people walking by will make him look around or even come to you for a treat. You’re giving the dog something else to do instead of barking.
Begging can become a down stay if you start small (just a down) and work up. Jumping up on people can get converted into sitting and waiting for a pat on the head. Nudging your arm can turn into a roll over, sit stay, or lots of other tricks. Have fun with this by picking silly tricks (spin in a circle and then lay down) as the new behavior....and let us know how it works.
