Question: Will certain breeds of dog defy your attempts to teach them basic manners?
Are Shih Tzus too stubborn? Frenchies too willful? Huskies too smart?
Answer: No!
While we may love our dog’s looks, characteristics, and quirks and enjoy talking to other people who share our love of a particular breed, don’t forget…
Dogs do what works.
Training = motivation.
Positive reinforcement works!
When I’m training a dog, I may be interested in their breed traits and temperaments, but I am even more interested in what motivates that individual (Is it food, toys, praise? And exactly what kind of food, toys, and attention really moves the dial for them?).
All dogs can be trained.
So, while I may enjoy obsessing over cute dogs on Instagram, appreciate the advice and experience of breed rescues about grooming, care, and common health issues, and enjoy meet ups and connecting with others who love specific kinds of dogs, I don’t forget that dogs are more than their breed. They are themselves.
While I may have some general expectations when I meet a certain kind of dog, I look at the individual in front of me (and I’m ready to learn something new about them).
I may have met a number of not very food-motivated Huskies, but I better check in and ask this Husky friend what they like! I've found that quite a few pit-bulls really pick up sit-stay quickly (Just sit here and get rewarded? You got it!), but that doesn't mean all will, that they won't like more active skills, or that the bouncy shepherd or terrier won't get it!
If a dog doesn’t listen, it has less to do with their breed and more about what they’ve learned to pay attention to and when--and that’s teachable!
So, is there any way to make your hound or your herding dog pay attention to you?
Yes! Sometimes it means making sure you supply what they most want at the right time. Have a dog who loves scents check in with you, then let them go sniff. Reward a dog who loves to chase with opportunities to do so.
Our relationships with our dogs are unique, made up of daily learning, training sessions, and many opportunities to reinforce behaviors we want to see more of (or, uh-oh! inadvertently reward ones we’d like less of).
If you are struggling with an unwanted behavior or wishing your dog would pay better attention to you, book an initial consult and we'll get started developing a relationship that works for you and your dog!
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