When it comes to disciplining your puppy or dog, you want to make sure that you’re doing it in a way that is positive and will help them learn what is expected of them. Physical punishment can be difficult to administer properly, and can often lead to dogs becoming scared of their owners instead of trusting them. There are many different ways to discipline your dog without resorting to physical punishment – here are five of the most common!
1. Proper Isolation
This means separating them from the things they enjoy, such as being in the same room as their owners or other people and animals. Isolation can be an effective way to discipline your dog if used correctly – for example, if they have been barking excessively or chewing on furniture. However, it’s important to make sure that your dog has a comfortable space to be in while they’re being isolated, and that they are not left alone for too long as this can lead to them becoming anxious.
2. Distract
Distracting your dog from the behavior you’re trying to stop can be an effective way of disciplining them. This can be done by making a loud noise (such as clapping your hands), giving them a toy to focus on or taking them for a walk. Distraction is most effective when it’s used immediately after your dog has started the unwanted behavior – for example, if they start barking, you can distract them by giving them a treat.
3. Ignore
Ignoring your dog is another common form of discipline. This means not paying attention to them when they’re displaying the behavior you’re trying to stop. For example, if your dog jumps up on you when you come home, you can ignore them by not speaking to them or making eye contact. Ignoring your dog can be difficult, especially if they’re used to being the center of attention, but it’s important to persevere as it will eventually teach them that the behavior is not acceptable.
4. Sit command
One of the most common commands taught to dogs is ‘sit’, and it can also be used as a form of discipline. If your dog is displaying unwanted behavior, such as jumping up on people or barking, you can give the ‘sit’ command. This will usually stop them from doing the unwanted behavior as they focus on trying to sit down. Once they have sat down, you can then give them a treat as a reward.
5. Time-out
A ‘time-out’ is another form of discipline that can be used with dogs. This involves removing your dog from the situation they’re in (for example, if they’re barking excessively, you would put them in another room) and ignoring them for a short period of time. Time-outs should only be used for very minor offenses, as they can often be seen as punishment by dogs. It’s important to make sure that your dog has a comfortable place to stay during their time-out, and that they are not left alone for too long.
Here are the things you avoid when disciplining you puppy or dog:
Avoid Yelling
Yelling at your dog is one of the worst things you can do when trying to discipline them. Not only is it ineffective, but it will also scare them and damage your relationship with them. If you need to raise your voice to get their attention, try using a firm, deep tone instead of yelling.
Avoid Hitting
Hitting your dog is never acceptable, and is one of the most common forms of abuse. Not only is it cruel, but it will also make your dog scared of you and less likely to listen to you. If you’re feeling frustrated, try taking a break or talking to a professional trainer for help.
Avoid Using Punishments
Punishments, such as deprivation or verbal abuse, are often ineffective and can make the problem worse. If you need to discipline your dog, try using positive reinforcement instead. This means rewarding them for good behavior, such as sitting calmly or coming when called.
When it comes to disciplining your puppy or dog, it’s important to avoid using any form of punishment. This includes yelling, hitting, verbal abuse. Instead, try using positive reinforcement, such as rewarding your dog for good behavior. If you’re struggling to discipline your dog effectively, talk to a professional trainer for help.
