Sometimes though, if the weather isn't co-operating, or the days just aren't long enough, Winnie expels her pent up energy in other, less desirable, ways - mostly by launching herself into, or off of you. Using your body as a spring board. This is both annoying and painful, as she's a good size dog and not very gentle about this game of hers.
The first instinct of most owners when dogs jump up is to push the dog off. Since the dog usually sees this as an invitation to play, it gets even more bouncy. The owners voice then starts to rise as frustration sets in "No! No! NOOO!"
Dogs need to play – but they also need to know how to calm. A great way to teach your dog a little bit of self control when they are excited, is with a game called "Crazy Sits".
With your dog on leash, initiate short games. Use your body posture – bend over – be fun. After a couple seconds stand, avoid eye contact and calmly say, “sit.” Then wait patiently. Calmly reward your dog when they finally sit. This exercise takes practice, but most dogs learn the how the game works quickly.
The same sort of situation can occur when dogs bark at the window/door, are sniffing at food on the counter, etc. Thankfully, we have a toolbox full of available "commands" we can teach our dogs and use to our advantage.
Is your dog infamous for yelling at the world through the front window? Ask your dog to "leave it" and "come" - redirect and reward.
Your dog cannot jump on you or your guests when asked to "sit" (or when fetching a toy - as I've taught The Walrus).
Ask for what you want, and reward appropriate behavior, instead of concentrating on what your dog may be doing wrong. We promise - it works (Winnie can now stop and sit as she's barreling at you from across the room!).
For more info on adopting Winnie, click here or contact us at info@ador-a-bull.com
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