While working on the curriculum for my classes at the Maywood Veterinary Clinic as well as another location I can’t talk about yet, I’ve spent quite a bit if time lately thinking about what behaviors are essential for a pet dog.
This is only a list of essential behaviors, not a list that’s intended to be exhaustive. It’s more along the lines of “if you could only bring five behaviors with you to a desert island, what would they be?”
Name Game
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; eye contact is the foundation for all dog training.
Wait
Impulse control, impulse control, impulse control. It doesn’t come installed: we have to add it.
Leave it
Being able to prevent your dog from taking things isn’t just essential for keeping the peace, it may save your dog’s life.
Recall
But when it comes to saving your dog’s life, getting him to come when called is critical.
Loose Leash Walking
Walking nicely on leash isn’t just a convenience – it’s an important aspect of harmonious living. A dog that cannot be safely walked is often resented and often has a diminished quality-of-life.
What do you think?
Thank you!
Thank you!
I would add one more “emergency” behaviour: a moving down. Think of this scenario: your dog has gotten loose and has run across a road. You cannot call him to you, as he might get hit crossing the road. You tell him to “drop” and he immediate downs in place. You can then cross the road and call him to you safely.
That's a great point. Thank you!