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Puppy Leadership
A puppies need for leadership, most especially in relation to dominance aggression, is a hot topic in today's climate. Some argue that dogs do not form hierarchal packs with humans - information based on studies of dogs in the wild and domestic dogs in both controlled and uncontrolled environments. In these circles, rank reduction programmes are without merit and in severe instances, will induce aggression in response to inappropriate correction (often guised as training). read more
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Puppy Training |
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How to Play with your Puppy
Games have a variety of benefits for both you and your dog! Games are excellent bonding opportunities and are mental, physical and emotionally rewarding - not to mention positive outlets for a puppy, discouraging self-inventive dangerous and/or destructive choices. As importantly, games teach puppies particular behaviour, behaviour shaping that will play a key role in steadfast obedience in later life. The more your puppy learns, the easier they are to teach, and the quicker they learn new things.
Everything you do with your dog teaches him something! Make sure that the games you play foster the behaviours and attitudes you want ... Good games promote cooperation and control.
- Sarah Wilson, Good Owners, Great Pets
Don't
- Don't over-stimulate your puppy when playing games - avoid any action that might be mistaken as a challenge or teasing
- Don't use your body or clothing as part of any game with your puppy
- Don't ever chase your dog
- Don't play aggressive wrestling and play fight games - most especially with guarding breeds
- Don't allow your puppy go to solicit attention - attention is granted on your terms
Do
- Do be well-stocked with appropriate toys for your puppy, both pacifier toys (chew toys) and interactive toys (squeaky toys, tug toys, etc). Teach your puppy that these are acceptable choices, and immediately replace all unacceptable choices
- Do be aware of how you use your voice during play with your puppy and when establishing control: high, squeaky voices ensue excitement and will wind-up your puppy; firm, low voice tones command attention and leadership compliance
- Do be aware of how you use your body posture during play and when establishing control: hovering postures invite jumping, nipping and general uncontrolled puppy play; tall postures and eye contact command leadership
- Do control all access to interactive toys. Also control when the game starts and stops
- Do control all games - take the opportunity to teach important commands to your puppy during play such as recall, fetch, "sit", "leave" and "drop it".
