There is a conflict between how humans use language and how dogs understand words. When I visit clients there is often a barrage of “no”.
- No means stop barking.
- No means don’t jump up.
- No means don’t run through the door.
- No means don’t bite your lead.
- No means don’t pull.
- No means don’t snatch food.
- No means don’t pee on the floor.
- No means don’t lunge at a dog.
The problem is that humans use the word in a context that gives it meaning. Dogs are not able to understand that much subtlety.
I’m a firm believer that every interaction with a dog should end up with the word “good”. So what do we do instead? We teach the dog what we do want them to do in each situation.
If we look at jumping up, the dog may want attention. If the dog jumps and you automatically start stroking it, the dog learns that jumping works. Instead, we teach the dog that sitting achieves the attention. When the dog sits, we say “good” and give the attention it wants.
All the “noes” can be replaced in similar ways. Ask what the dog wants, then ask what the dog needs to do to get it. When the dog does the alternative behaviour, mark it and reward it. You end up with a happier dog that really understands you.