Training Essentials
Relationship
Structure and boundaries are the building blocks to a balanced dog and healthy relationship. Investing in this during the early months sets the tone for a lifetime. DCLA dogs learn boundaries in foster. Maintaining consistency with house rules, staying on a crate schedule, limiting affection early on, and departing regularly are the most helpful things you can offer your new companion.
House Rules
When enforcing these rules, use the techniques described in the Pressure and Release section to ask your dog to back up or get off. Be mindful of your positioning to avoid cornering your dog. Allow them a pathway out. Keep a short drag leash* on the dog for the first few weeks or months until they understand what you’re asking. Do not grab their collar to move them.
Out of the Kitchen: Ask your dog to move ‘Out’ of the kitchen when preparing food (yours and theirs). Do not challenge your dog over food by sticking your hand in their bowl.
No Begging: If you have food, ask your dog to move away 5ft or more. This is especially important in a multi-dog home where dogs can fight over the proximity to food.
Thresholds: When going outside, ask your dog to wait at the door until invited out. Make sure to release the dog only when it is calm and connected, offering stillness and eye contact.
Couch Privileges: The couch should remain off-limits in the beginning. Once you have a clear relationship with your dog and they do not challenge you or exhibit behavioral issues. If they cannot “Off” when asked, they are not ready to be on the couch.
Bed Privileges: Similarly, bed privileges can be earned once clear communication is established. Many bites and guarding problems happen near or around the bed.
Guarding & Leadership
Setting boundaries around spaces keeps a dog from developing natural guarding tendencies. Asking them to yield space will help your dog understand your leadership role in your new relationship. Ultimately, a dog that does not listen to you inside the home will not listen out in the world. They may dismiss leash pressure, ignore recall commands, and overall render you irrelevant!
*Drag Leash
A drag leash is a leash that stays on all the time. It allows you to guide the dog without reaching at or handling them. Do not grab their collar to move them. Make a drag leash by cutting the length as long or as short as you need and burn the end to prevent fraying. A nervous or fearful dog may need a longer leash. As your dog becomes more comfortable with handling, you can shorten or cut the leash. Put the primary leash on before removing the drag leash for walks.
