Many of us consider our dogs to be members of our family. In many ways, they are. We form a special bond with dogs that few other animals share. Some dog owners go so far as to interpret their dog's every action in human terms. Given this special status, as family member and companion, we naturally start to look at our furry friends through "people-colored" glasses. This is where problems begin.
Often dog owners forego training because they don't like the way they think the training makes their dog feel, or they feel guilty for setting rules and not letting their dog "be a dog." This humanizing of a dog's behavior leads to faulty judgments about what dogs understand, what they need, and what is best for the dog. Dogs simply do not think like people - something many owners do not understand or refuse to accept.
Learning how to communicate leadership in a way a dog understands is key. The lesson for dog owners is to take control by communicating leadership - and do so consistently. There is no reason for your dog to lead you on walks, cut you off on the stairs, run first through open doorways, jump on visitors, or bark every time the doorbell rings or a person walks by your house. Typically, these are things dogs do when they think they are in charge.
While some methods of obedience training rely on gimmicks, treats or even inducing pain or discomfort, the Bark Busters natural methods empower you with the insight you need to become your dog's leader. Bark Busters can show you how to transform your "problem dog" into a happy, obedient lifelong family member.
Once the role of leader is fulfilled by you, most other issues and concerns will fall naturally and easily into place. All the dog training tips in the world won't matter if your dog doesn't view you as his leader. Dogs have an innate need for social structure and security, so in order to maintain a peaceful existence, dog owners must learn to confidently lead that social structure. Dog behavior issues almost always stem from a lack of consistency. Leadership isn't difficult to achieve, it simply requires a basic understanding of the leader mindset and consistent use of a few, straightforward techniques.
Rules and leadership are not enemies of fun. And in no way should training a dog inhibit its playfulness or spontaneity. But that doesn't mean there should be no rules for inappropriate behavior. In fact, providing your dog with consistent leadership and ground rules for behavior will make it feel more secure and relaxed and make for a more self-assured companion. Dogs must learn who is in charge in a way they understand.