The Dogfather: Trust and Respect

It's easy to gain a dog's trust. Winning his respect is another matter. Feeding him, providing water and shelter will soon gain his trust but that doesn't mean you have his respect.

If your dog jumps up at you, play-bites, drags you along on the lead he's sending you a message that you should heed. It's a clear indication of his lack of respect which in some breeds especially the terrier, herding guarding breeds can lead to serious trouble.

A very caring lady asked me yesterday what she should do about her dog nipping her before rolling up her sleeves to reveal dozens of scratches and bites.

Clearly her terrier shows her zero respect and laughing at his unruly behaviour only makes it worse. Pampered and petted throughout his life this little chap clearly thinks he's top dog, which in fact he is.

Without boundaries, rules, constructive exercise and education this little dog has no choice but to take up the leadership role inventing his own rules. I noticed however the family cat wasn't falling for it.

She stood her ground and hissed at him until he did as she instructed and going near her bed wasn't permitted. She was laying down boundaries omitted by the owner.

If you want to live in harmony with your dog it's essential to have his respect but you can only do this by understanding his world. You cannot be inconsistent and expect him to follow you.

You have to demonstrate your understanding of his need for boundaries, constructive exercise and discipline. Allowing him to charge around the park like a maniac is not constructive exercise. You must be at the epicentre of all his activities giving directions and laying down rules.

You can learn how to do this at one of my classes. Just text me at 07590-560012 or visit my website. 

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The Dogfather, Vic Barlow