hiya bucks Amersham, Beaconsfield, Chesham, Gerrards Cross, Missenden April 2014 | Page 8

Simple Commands and Few Words There are a few simple things as you train your new dog which can make him or her all the happier and your life more pleasurable. One aspect is how to tackle misbehaviour. If your dog does something that doesn’t please you, go easy. Dogs thrive on attention, and attempting to punish your dog by telling him or her off in a harsh voice in sentences, still counts as attention. Remember, because he does not understand our language, he actually has no idea what you’re saying! Here’s an example. There’s an old man, a widower, who lives near me who regularly walks his dog past my house. He clearly loves the dog, dotes on it and they live together as the very best of chums. Trouble is I often hear him talking to him and then shouting if he doesn’t always heel properly or starts barking at a retreating cat. The dog looks up at him, all bewildered and on they go down the road with the old chap still trying to scold his friend with lots of chat. Anyway, all dogs bark a bit and sometimes pull on their leads if excited. The advice is to keep commands simple. Teach him a few words and don’t deviate with extra chat at those times. When your dog really misbehaves, instead turn your back on him, avoid eye contact and remain silent. Don’t really shout at him. The dog learns quite quickly that his behaviour (jumping up, for instance) brought no results whatsoever and he will soon stop doing it. As soon as he has stopped unwelcome behaviour, switch back to showing pleasure and encouragement. Don’t get frustrated or angry if your dog doesn’t do what you want him to. He’s probably not being disobedient at all; he loves you dearly, wants to please - but may simply not understand what you want. Overall, it’s best to go out and buy a little training book for a few £s. These days there also some useful advice websites such as ours. We also need support such as donations, pairs of hands and legacies. If you’re looking for a new friend come and see us at Stokenchurch Dog Rescue. We’ve lots of dogs, in all sizes Tel. 01494 482695. Geoff Perfitt, SDR publicity officer. PUPPY & DOG TRAINING 40 Years Experience CLASSES, 1-2-1’s & BEHAVIOUR In High Wycombe, Beaconsfield & surrounding areas • Small classes using reward-based methods • Qualified, experienced instructor Member of APDT & CAPBT Tel. 07903 303 472 www.suzannebullworthy.weebly.com 8 To advertise in Hiya Bucks text or call 07947 349134