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Successful dog training is based on a consistent system of reinforcements and corrections.
Proper correction is largely a function of timing. Berause a dog's power of association is limited, it is crucial that you correct your dog while it is in the midst of misbehaving. If you correct a dog for a past action, such as urinating in the house, it will not associate the punishment with the behavior. As a result, it will not know to stop the bad behavior nor will it understand why it is being punished. If repeatedly punished after the fact, your dog will likely think your corrections are arbitrary and will not trust your authority.
There are several different approaches you can use to correct your dog. Some work better than others depending on the behavior you are correcting. Below are examples of improper behaviors and effective methods for correcting them.
Digging/chewing: One of the best ways to stop your dog from digging or chewing is to startle it. This ran be accomplished by tossing a rattling can (a soda can with coins or pebbles inside works well) at its feet. Immediately after correcting your dog, remove it from the object or the area where it is misbehaving.
Barking: While a firm verbal reprimand will often quiet a dog's bark, you may need to use another type of correction, such as a loud noise. A rattle can is always a good bet, as is loud pounding or sharp clapping.
Running/chasing: Water guns, hoses and buckets of water are all effective ammunition against your dog's running or chasing. You might consider setting your dog up for a water correction several times so as to get the timing right and successfully convey the message. If your dog chases cars, for example, ask your friends to drive by slowly and to dump a bucket of water on your dog's head when it begins to chase the car.
Other approaches: Whenever you use a verbal reprimand, be sure your body language corresponds. By saying one thing and doing another, you send a mixed message that is open to interpretation according to your dog's perspective. When saying "no," for example, look straight into your dog's eyes with a stem, serious glare. Be intimidating, mimicking the leader of a wolf pack.
Never hit your dog with an object such as a newspaper; it is likely to instill fear and mistrust in the dog. Also, avoid hitting the dog with your hand, especially from above. Having been hit from above, the dog will often fear being pet by people overhead. Fearful dogs lack confidence in themselves and their owners.
It is important to keep in mind that corrections and rewards go hand in hand. While corrections are essential, successful training also requires abundant rewards. Remember to consistently and enthusiastically reward your dog with praise, food or treats.
In simple terms, Schutzhund-- a German word meaning "protection dog"-- refers to protection training. Described in greater detail, Schutzhund is a formal system of training aimed at developing and evaluating those traits that are characteristic of protection dogs.
Schutzhund was originally designed at the turn of the century by the Deutsches Shaeferhund Verein (German Shepherd Dog Club) as a test to determine a German Shepherd's suitability for breeding. Emphasizing the working temperament and ability of the breed, Schutzhund later developed into a training regime involving tracking, obedience and protection. Three major degrees-- SchH 1, SchH II and SchH III-- are awarded based on a dog's performance, ability and courage.
With a set of international rules in place, Schutzhund has been widely adopted as a both a sport and a test of performance in working dogs. No longer the domain only of German Shepherds, Schutzhund welcomes any breed that displays the temperament, drive and ability that the work demands. Schutzhund rules currently exclude fighting breeds.
To be a Schutzhund candidate, a dog must be temperamentally stable, with a balance of both prey and defensive drives. Simply because a dog is aggressive does not mean it is a reliable working dog. Confident and calm enough to handle the stress of Schutzhund training, the dog must also be intelligent enough to under-stand the work involved.
While breeding is an important factor in producing a Schutzhund candidate, early development and the quality of the trainer also play significant roles. The dog's early life should not be marked by harsh corrections or domination. In fact, it should be characterized by positive experiences from which the dog can slowly build the confidence and maturity it will need to succeed.
It is important to remember that protection training will not transform a docile dog into an aggressive one. A dog's basic temperament largely determines its suitability for Schutzhund and will not change as a result of it.
Like many competitive sports, Schutzhund is a demanding, time consuming activity that requires serious commitment. It can also be an extremely rewarding and fun experience for both owners and their dogs. Unlike many sports, however, Schutzhund cannot be practiced alone. The complexity of the exercises and the number of people required to perform them make it necessary for Schutzhund to be practiced with others, preferably with those who are familiar with the tests. The best way to find like-minded owner's and dogs is through a club. Schutzhund clubs are located throughout the United States.
In every event, concentration and accuracy are essential. Perhaps most important, however, is the eagerness with which the dog works for, and with, its handier.
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