How To Increase Your Dog’s Confidence

Introduction

Dogs are naturally sociable animals; their understanding of their world is based upon a social position within a hierarchical pack. Some dogs are dominant, others will be submissive and both will behave according to its position. Your family group is basically a pack scenario to Fido. Whilst you really don’t want him to be top dog, nor do you want him to be so submissive that he spontaneous urinates to try and grovel for you. In this latter scenario Fido’s confidence is definitely requiring a boost!

Dog Training Activities

As dogs are sociable, logically any activity that involves positive forms of socialisation will go a long way to improve confidence. Classes in obedience and agility are ideal for this, particularly as exercise is a great stress reliever for both pet and owner. Whilst training for agility does involve a lot of equipment, it need not be expensive as this can be improvised using household items. The purpose is to improve confidence, and this will be achieved through the positive system of praise and treats that is generally associated with these types of actives. Set aside regular times for this; at least 30 minutes broken into 10 to 15 minute bursts.

Shy of People?

Sometimes dogs can be shy of people and if Fido spontaneously pees when Aunty Mavis appears, perhaps Aunt Mavis can help in a gradual desensitizing program. It best to let Aunt Mavis stand with her back to Fido, perhaps with his favourite treat in her hand. Let Fido do the approaching. Make sure Aunt Mavis assumes a non-threatening posture: crouching is good, with no direct eye contact. Next some quiet chat, and when Fido can face Aunty full on then some light petting can take place. A greater degree of this kind of social interaction can be achieved by joining dog training classes.

Good Owner Behaviour

In improving a dog’s confidence never underestimate your own behaviour to the animal. If you are consistently failing to put the lid on the dustbin, or leaving chewable articles on the floor, how can it your dog’s fault if he instinctively responds to these stimuli. What follows are situation where the dog is constantly subjected negative reactions from the owner. After all, no one constantly needs to be told that they are wrong. Body language and tone of voice also should be regulated. It’s best to communicate in a calm, low voice, and to get down to the dog’s level. Most obviously, never be harsh or abusive.

Conclusion

Above all, never be abusive, as that may have lead to the confidence problems in the first place, particularly with a dog that had similar experiences in the past. As with children, confidence in dogs comes with praise and gentle instruction.

REMEMBER if you can't find your needs ONLINE you may call us at 661-327-0033, Monday through Friday 9 am to 6 pm PST and we will service your needs through our network of record retrieval specialist located throughout the United States. For More ONLINE RECORD SEARCHES go to our sister site. Allrecords.info (www.allrecords.info)