10 Dog Training Tips to Stop Bad Behaviour

1. Who’s the Boss?

Let your pet know who the boss is from the start. Establish the rules and follow them consistently.

2. Avoid the Wrong Situations

If your pet demonstrates poor behavior in certain situations or environments, avoid those situations as much as possible.

3. Mind Your Dog

If you keep a close eye on your pet, you’ll quickly learn what it needs to be comfortable and cared for.

4. Confine Your New Pets

When you get a new pet, make sure you supervise it closely during training and restrict its access to a small area of your home until properly trained.

5. Reward Good Behaviour

Encourage and reward good behavior.

6. Provide an Alternative

Correct bad behaviors by providing your pet with alternatives (e.g., swap a toy for your favourite tennis shoes or a chew stick in lieu of a table leg).

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7. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is good. Never reprimand your pet physically or force it to follow your commands, as this may lead to fear and aggression.

8. Keep it Tame

Don’t “rough house” with your pet or encourage aggressive behavior, as your pet can’t distinguish between when this is acceptable and when it isn’t.

9. Socialize Gradually

Slowly socialize your puppy exposing it to other people, animals and environments so that over time, it becomes comfortable with its living situation.

10. If All Else Fails, See an Expert

If your pet continues to demonstrate serious behaviour problems, seek the counsel of your vet or a veterinary behaviorist.