Dog Behavior Modification

Obedience training can give you the control needed to prevent a number of potential life threatening situations. Although the benefits of obedience training are many, it has little to do with modifying a behavioral issue. Fact is, teaching obedience commands to resolve a behavioral problem often does get in the way of helping the dog straighten out his or her problem.

For instance, if a dog is stressed or anxious in a given context, forcing him to perform some obedience exercise sit, lay down, whatever, can add to the stress or anxiety. That, in turn, does nothing to change the stress or anxiety he may have within that context and leaves the dog with the same behavioral problem. Or, if your dog is doing something you do not like, having him down-stay may stop the behavior at that time, but again, it does nothing to address the behavior or its possible cause.

Base your training on relaxation. Helping your dog stay calm is at the heart of behavior modification.

Don't show your dog fear or anger. Instead, create a healthy rapport between you and your dog based on leadership and respect. If you are going to correct or modify any bad behaviors in a dog you must have the two most important things you need: Control of your dog and respect from your dog.

Utilize desensitization techniques. This is the process of honing in on the areas where your dog acts aggressive. Approach such behavior in a non-threatening way. If he shows aggression toward animals, start exposing him to other dogs from a distance.

Rely on counter conditioning in dog training behavior modification. This involves changing your dog's association with something through repetitive techniques.

Use positive techniques. Do not use violence to train your dog. Encourage him through kindness and respect. You will develop a stronger bond between the both of you and he will follow your commands better.

Reinforce repetition and consistency. Build and strengthen good habits by establishing routines and repeating behavior. Keep up the routines even after your dog learns the new behavior.

Pump up the exercise. The more activity your pet has the better he will do with his dog training behavior modification. Walking and retrieving activities will help him release anxiety and forgo bad behavior, like improper chewing.

Behavior modification utilizes the behaviors differently. Significantly, behavior modification programs address the underlying reasons for the problem behaviors. This is done by identifying, analyzing and appropriately reconditioning the dog's out ward physical signs which indicate the dog's internal physiological and psychological state. It is the underlying physiological and psychological state that behavior modification alters and which obedience training cannot address. Although there are similarities among obedience training and behavior modification, behavior modification differs in goal, outcome and reward structure. It is hard work and there are no quick fixes.

Investing in professional dog training is highly recommended and not only teaches dog behavior modification but also teaches you how to apply the training to everyday situations (like the front door or food bowl).

Secrets to Dog Training is the number one selling dog training book on the internet, This course does not require a professional background or experience, nor does the program require expensive equipment, making Secrets to Dog Training practically applicable for any pet owner who wishes to make their dog an obedient and lovable pet.

Dog training and dog behavior modification go hand in hand and will go a long way in helping you to have a long happy and healthy relationship with your dog.