For Christmas, my boys gifted me with one of the most amazing gifts… a dog training book (or it could possibly be a hint to get Deuce under control) and it’s amazing. It’s titled “The Only Dog Training Book You’ll Ever Need” by Gerilyn J. Bielakiewicz – Top Dog Trainer and Cofounder of Canine University.
Unfortunately, I feel as though I may have a lot of habits to break with Deuce after reading this book but I will most certainly will work towards making him a well behaved Pit Bull.
First and foremost, Bielakiewicz states that you need to create guidelines with your dog. Being a strong leader is the first step toward ridding your dog of behavior problems. Following are some guidelines on how to be strong, fair leader.
1. Nothing in life is free. Make sure you give your dog a job. Teach him/her to Sit for dinner, Lie Down before doors are opened for them, etc.
2. Humans go first through doorways and up and down stairs. This prevents your dog from escaping out the front door or knocking you down the stairs. Teach your dog to Sit and Stay until he is released through your door.
3. Down/Stay sessions for five to twenty minutes at a time help teach your dog self-control and give her a constructive job to perform around distractions and company.
4. No dogs on the beds or furniture. Young dogs should sleep in a crate or in their own bed, not in bed with you. Your bed is the highest, most special place in the house and should be reserved for you only.
5. Don’t repeat a command more then once. If your dog doesn’t respond on the first try, he does not get what you were offering.
6. Ignore your dog if she nudges you for attention. Leaders give attention on their own terms, not when their dogs demand it.
7. Ignore your dog if he is constantly pushing toys at you, Leaders initiate play and decide when the game starts and ends. This keeps a dog on his toes because he never knows when the fun begins.
8. Follow through. If you’ve asked your dog to do something but she does not respond, make sure you help her to get into the right position rather than repeating the command.
9. Provide consequences. Ignore what you don’t like; avoid yelling at your dog for barking or jumping, for instance. From your dogs perspective, any attention is better than none, and speaking to the dog often be mistaken for reinforcement.
You can find this book online and at a store near you. Order yours today.
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