4 Basic Requirements To A Better Behaved Dog
by Susan Engel, Certified Trainer

 

The following items are the basic requirements that every dog needs to be a happy, social and even-tempered dog. Providing these elements will allow you to nurture a relationship with your dog that is full of respect and love.

1. Crate

• Most dogs benefit from being crated until they are 3 year of age in an appropriate size crate. Crates are crucial for preventing housebreaking problems and chewing problems. To help establish leadership, it is important for your dog to have his own place (crate) in your home.
  
• Dogs that are crated properly are better-behaved dogs.

2. Exercise

• Most dogs have a medium to high energy level and must have a lot of exercise to be happy. A fenced yard is one of the basic requirements for exercise for most dogs. If a fenced yard is not accessible at this time, it will be important to find a field for your dog to run in once or twice a day. You can purchase a 50' foot leash, take him to a field and let him run. Just walking a young dog is usually not enough exercise for a medium to high-energy breed. Dogs that do not receive the exercise they need typically display out of control, assertive play behavior when inside with the family. This may be due to the frustration of not being able to release their energy outside.
  
• Dogs that have a lot of exercise are better-behaved dogs. Many dogs enjoy playing in a baby pool as a way to get their summer exercise. One of a dogs' natural instincts is to dig. Giving your dog a place of their own to dig is a great way for him to get exercise. A digging dog is a happy dog! This is Ike's (10yrs. old Great Dane) favorite activity.

3. Obedience Training

• Many dogs need formal obedience training. In most cases this means one-on-one training with a professional trainer. To determine whether your dog needs professional training, ask yourself…'am I comfortable with the way my dog is behaving?' The great news is every dog can be trained! Becoming a leader for your dog will be crucial to your success in obedience training. A good leader is structured, fair and consistent. Remember, there is never a need to hit or yell at your dog.
  
• Dogs that have Obedience training are better-behaved dogs. Dogs love to learn! Here these lucky dogs are practicing obeying around distraction.

4. Commitment

• A commitment to give the Time that is needed for supervision and attention young dogs require. A commitment to be Patient with your dog; understanding that it may take many months of structure and guidance before your dog is behaving the way you like. Truely committed owners will always have the respect and love of their dogs.A commitment to Understand that your dog's behavior is a direct reflection of your effective efforts; if your dog is not behaving, as you would desire, seek effective training.
  
• A commitment to Love your dog for the dog he is and the awesome dog he can become with your guidance and leadership. Basically, a commitment to do whatever it takes to raise your dog in a safe, healthy and loving way.
  
• Dogs that have a committed family are better-behaved dogs.