Training Tips #4: Being the Pack-Leader

I've mentioned the term "pack-leader" quite a few times in my training posts. This is because the best way to train a puppy is to understand its nature. And a puppy's nature comes from animals who live in packs, with a "pack-leader" to follow and give direction. It it your job as the dog trainer to be your puppy's pack-leader. Whenever you are experiencing difficulties, ask your self, "Am I being a firm and strong pack-leader?" Their history of living in a pack with the leader leaves dogs with a strong awareness of who's dominant and who's not. Naturally, puppies try to elevate themselves in this hierarchy of dominance to a point where they are the "pack-leaders." Different breeds will seek to do this to different degrees. (Terriers are some of the most "dominant" dogs.) Thus, it is essential that you always remain on top, never letting your puppy think he's your pack-leader. And remember, being your dog's leader is in no way mean or strict. In fact, most dogs enjoy being in a "follower" role and will gladly accept that position if you prove a worthy leader. In that role they are not worried about keeping things under control. Establishing your role as the dominant pack-leader should start as soon as you bring your puppy home. Here are a few tips from me and my vet at the Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital that will help you to fill your proper role.

Grooming
I discussed some proper grooming techniques and equipment in an earlier post. Now you can use that information and apply it to training. Holding and handling your dogs tells it that you are in control. The process of grooming is a good example. By handling your dog on a regular basis, you, the groomer, are indicating to the dog that you are dominant and that what you says goes. In the beginning, many puppies will struggle and try to avoid being groomed. You must not let them avoid the process and instead show you are serious about getting it done.

Feeding
Here's a tip I picked up from my local Denver veterinarian: You eat before your dog eats. Even if it's easier to feed your dog before yourself some nights, this habit can send the signal to your dog that they are more dominant than you. Remember, dogs are more observant than you think! Don't believe it?-Check our this PBS special! You and your family should sit down, eat your dinner, and only feed your puppy after you are complete. Feeding time is also a great teaching time. I like to get a bit of training in with these 4 quick steps:

1. Poor the food into your puppy's bowl and show him the food.
2. Before placing the bowl on the ground, make your puppy sit.
3. After he sits, put the food bowl on the ground, but don't let him get to it yet. Hold him back for a moment or two while you say "stay."
4. Finally, let your puppy dig in as the reward.

Meal after meal of practice will help teach your puppy to sit, stay, and be patient.

Biting

Never let your puppy's playful mouthing become a forceful nip. As I mentioned in Training Tips #3, use your assertive "No" with a gentle tap on the nose to tell your puppy nipping is not okay. Gone unchecked, nipping can turn into the bad habit of biting.

Playing Vs. Fighting

Puppies are playful creatures and playing with people and toys is an important part of their development. Yet not all "games" are okay, and some can even lead to lasting bad habits. Tug-of-war is a classic game that both humans and dogs love to play. But just like on the playground at school, tug-of-war is a game to establish strength and dominance. While playing tug-of-war, your puppy thinks it has a chance of winning dominance over you. This is a game that should be avoided. Playing with a ball, on the other hand, is a great game for your puppy. The best way to turn ball play into a training technique is to teach your puppy to fetch. Reward your puppy greatly when it bring the ball back to you. If it doesn't, simply ignore it. Too many inexperienced trainers will call and call for the dog when it doesn't return the ball. Yet calling it's name is giving it attention. The worst punishment a dog can have is being ignored. So if your puppy decides to run with the ball and not bring it back, just turn your back and say nothing to it.