The 9 Commandments of Raising the Perfect Dog
- I will manage my puppy’s environment until he is at least one-year old. Confinement can be in a crate, tethered indoors, or in a small puppy-proofed space. A dog’s behavior is simply a reflection of what has been reinforced. So, if the puppy has been rewarded (i.e. found food) on a counter or in the garbage, that behavior will be repeated. With adequate confinement puppies never have the opportunity to:
- Counter surf for food
- Raid the garbage can
- Chew the doors, baseboards or furniture
- Eliminate indoors
- Chase the cat
*It is important in building a strong positive relationship with your dog to manage your dog’s environment so he can be right!
- .I will feed my dog only wholesome healthful food, in moderation. Overweight dogs have a lower quality-of-life and are prone to many painful, expensive health problems.
- I will take my puppy to a Puppy Preschool class and to a Manners class.
- I will meet my dog’s exercise and mental needs. Long, leash walks (1 to 3 miles) are not adequate for most dogs Dogs that don’t have their exercise needs met are prone to destructive behavior. Examples of ways to met exercise requirements: off leash running in a large secured area, food puzzles, tug of war, swimming, Doggie Daycare, nose work, trick training, play with a neighbor dog, search games for their dinner.
- I will properly socialize my dogs to other dogs, people and environmental situations. Socialization is most important for young puppies (2-3 months of age) but should continue throughout the dog’s life. I understand that on leash greetings are inappropriate.
- I will learn to “speak dog” and respect my dogs communication with me and others.
- I will initiate and play lots of games with my dog, and I’ll enjoy it as much as he does.
- I will focus on training and rewarding desirable behaviors. I won’t resort to physical punishment and focusing on what the dog does wrong. Correcting dogs increases their fear and anxiety and hence increases their risk for developing aggression problems.
- Because dogs are highly social animals, I will integrate the dog into the family. I will not leave my dog outdoors.
