Owners often call me with some overwhelming complaint concerning their dog's behaviour. "My dog will not come back when called," they tell me in utter frustration or, "He just will not stop pulling on the lead."
They're not concerned about any other behaviour except the one that annoys them most and they want me to 'fix it.' When I start by asking them to get their dog to sit and stay they grow impatient.
"That isn't the problem," they tell me not realising that training a dog is like completing a jigsaw. If there are pieces missing it's never going to happen.
A dog that doesn't listen around your feet isn't likely to do so when he's 50 yards away. A dog that jumps all over you is not going to walk obediently to heel on a loose lead.
A child that throws food at the table and screams and swears at parents is unlikely to be a model pupil at school.
It all starts with basic obedience. It's where the relationship between you and your dog is formed. That's why the training of all working dogs, regardless of their eventual duty, starts with sit, stay, lie down, etc.
There is absolutely no point moving on to more complex commands if your dog is disobedient at your feet. If you have to ask six times before your dog sits by your side it's unrealistic to turn him loose and expect him to return the moment you call?
Good basic obedience work is the foundation for everything that follows. Allowing a dog to jump up and disrespect you is the very reason he pulls on the lead or ignores your recall.
If you are struggling with a particular problem revisit your early obedience work. Get that spot-on and you are on your way to success.
If you need help join one of my classes or text me direct on : 07590-560012
