• Dog Training Tips

Mixed-Up Motives: The Final Obstacle for Dog Trainers

Your dog runs around the room, excited by the presence of visitors, and nearly knocks one of your guests over. You apologize, hauling the dog away. “I’ve been trying to teach him not to do that,” you say. “He just doesn’t get it.” Your frustration is understandable, but is your dog really at fault?

Whether you’re just beginning to train your dog or looking for a more effective approach, take a moment to step back and do a little self-analysis. Dog training is not a simple process, and the problems that you encounter may actually have little to do with your pet.

In the sample scenario, when your dog nearly bowls over your visitor, there may be underlying reasons for his behavior besides sheer disobedience. Maybe your pet is wound up from being indoors all day without exercise or mental stimulation. Perhaps he is simply a bouncy, gregarious type of dog.

Address Your Motives

Ask yourself what your motives are for training your pet. Do you want a calm dog instead of the boisterous, happy pup that greets you every day? That energy and vigor are part of your dog’s personality, something that you shouldn’t want to train out of him. If your dog’s personality really does clash with your character and lifestyle, consider re-homing your pet to someone more compatible. Don’t expect a training regime to completely transform an animal’s personality.

You may be able to teach a high-energy dog how to manage that excessive need for physical activity. With extra walks, time to run in the backyard, or more visits to your local Singapore dog park, your pet may become calmer. However, keep in mind that the animal’s personality, breed, and physical makeup affect how much you can really accomplish with dog training in Singapore.

Adjust Your Expectations

Did your friend’s dog learn to “stay” in one afternoon? Good for him. However, that does not mean that your pet will pick up on the concept as quickly. Don’t hold your dog to an unreachable standard or expect him to learn and perform as fast and as well as other dogs that you know. Give your pet the time and patience that he needs to learn the necessary skills. Avoid comparing him to other dogs, whether they are the same breed or not. Like people, dogs are individuals with unique personalities, learning abilities, and needs.

Accumulate Knowledge

Too many people buy or adopt a dog based on looks and a brief glimpse of the animal’s personality. When you start thinking about adopting or buying a dog, do your research. Pick several breeds that appeal to you and find out everything you can about each breed. Discover the dogs’ background, their original purpose, their physical attributes, their mental acuity, and more. All of these facts will help you choose a dog that fits well with your personality and lifestyle.

Ask a Professional

Anytime you feel that you are out of your depth, ask a professional for help. Many Singapore dog training experts are available to give you practical tips, general advice, and in-person assistance if you need it. Dog training classes are helpful to get you and your pet on the right track to a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship.