As a dog owner, we all know the importance of a well-behaved, trained dog who doesn't jump, or bark, and is good on a leash; a dog who's great at basic commands. And while we all love our pets, sometimes it's difficult to understand their behavior, especially when we think "they should know better". That may be true, but simply knowing better doesn't always mean our pups can do better.
That's where the two drivers of dog behavior come into play: anxiety and impulse control.
Last month, our focus was on the anxiety portion of behavior drivers (check out some of our articles here and here). This month we focus on impulse control, and how to get your dog's behavior back on track.
Impulse control, or willpower, has been a struggle for not just our dogs, but we as humans, too.
Does Your Dog's Willpower or Impulse Control Have Limits?
That might depend, because your peers and society can guide and shape impulse control.
Impulse control is indeed weaker when you're under mental or physical stress, but it can be (at least partially) replenished through evidence of others' impulse control. Your dog mirrors your emotions and reactions.
In other words, an individual's willpower and impulse control have limits, but as a group, be it family, friends, or society, we can borrow and grow that willpower.
By maintaining calm, and showing self-control when working with your dog, you are helping them regain their impulse control as well.
1. Don't Add Energy to Your Dog
Your energy directly influences your dog's behavior. Remember, when you're calm and composed, your dog is more likely to mirror that state. Avoid adding unnecessary energy, especially during high-stress situations. If your dog is overexcited, maintain a quiet demeanor and speak softly (or better yet, not at all). This encourages your dog to calm down, making it easier for them to control impulses.
2. Catch Your Dog's Behavior
One of the most effective ways to improve impulse control is by catching calm behavior. Reward your dog when they are naturally relaxed and composed.
To recreate your pup's behavior (self-control) you have to catch that behavior.
This reinforces the idea that calm behavior leads to positive outcomes. Keep some treats handy and give one when your dog is lying quietly or sitting patiently. Learn how to give positives correctly in this article.
3. Exercise Your Dog
A well-exercised dog is a calmer dog. Physical activity helps burn off excess energy that might otherwise contribute to impulsive behavior. Ensure your dog gets daily exercise tailored to their breed and age. Regular walks, playtime, and even agility training can significantly improve impulse control. For even more ways to exercise your dog, check out this link.
4. Get the Timing Right When Training Your Dog
Timing is crucial in training. When correcting impulsive behavior or rewarding good behavior, ensure you're doing it at the right moment. Immediate feedback helps your dog make connections between their actions and your reactions, reinforcing desired behaviors and discouraging unwanted ones.
5. Negate Your Pup's Unruly Behavior
Impulsive actions like jumping, barking, or pulling on the leash should be gently but consistently negated. Once your dog accepts the negative you've placed on their behavior, redirect their attention to a more appropriate behavior and reward them. For instance, if your dog jumps up when greeting you, give a gentle but immediate negative, and only give attention when they sit calmly.
6. Schedule Doggie Down Time
Dogs, like humans, need downtime to recharge. Schedule regular periods of rest throughout the day. This helps prevent overstimulation and teaches your dog to relax. Creating a calm environment with a comfortable bed or crate can aid in providing necessary downtime.
7. Puppy Peer Pressure
Dogs learn from each other. If possible, let your dog spend time with well-behaved, calm dogs. This positive peer pressure can influence your dog to adopt better behaviors. Supervised playdates or group training sessions can be beneficial.
8. Know Your Dog's Limits
Understanding your dog's limitations is essential for effective training. Not every dog has the same threshold for stress or excitement. Be mindful of your dog's unique needs and adjust your training methods accordingly. Pushing them too far can lead to frustration and setbacks. Think of impulse control as a muscle that needs to be gradually strengthened.
9. Give Your Pup Plenty of Mental Work/Enrichment
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Engage your dog in activities that challenge their mind, such as puzzle toys, enrichment feeding, or scent work. This not only keeps them occupied but also enhances impulse control by requiring focus and patience.
10. Know When to Walk Away from Your Dog
Sometimes, walking away is the best course of action. If your dog is too wound up and not responding, it's okay to take a break. This prevents both you and your dog from becoming frustrated. If you're trying to teach a new trick, stop and take a breather. If you're trying to walk your dog, and they're working your last nerve with their constant pulling, turn around and go home. As I used to say to my kids when they were frustrating me, "I love you very much, go to your room". That way I could regroup and parent properly, without anger and frustration.
Conclusion
Improving your dog's impulse control is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and understanding. You're setting the foundation for a well-behaved, happy companion. Our positive training techniques ensure a gentle yet effective approach, promising you and your dog a more peaceful and enjoyable life together. Give these tips a try, and watch as your dog's impulse control improves, creating a better environment for everyone in your home.
Dog Training Based on Communication: The Piloting Method
Focusing on guiding your dog's behaviors, rather than dominating or placating your dog, will strengthen your bond. Communication is key to achieving that goal, and the Piloting Method of dog training is the pathway to that goal.
Whether you are starting at the beginning with your dog's current behavior problems, or you are ready to advance to dog training, have specific goals in mind. Make sure they fit your lifestyle as well as your dog's personality and encompasses both your strengths and weaknesses.
Because every dog deserves to be the Best Dog Ever.
Discover more about our Piloting Method of dog training.
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