When to call on a professional: Don't face difficulties alone
Despite your best efforts and the rigorous application of training techniques, progress may sometimes be slow or even nonexistent. Consulting a dog trainer or behaviorist is not a sign of failure, but rather a responsible and proactive step towards your dog's well-being and the quality of your relationship.
1. When should you call in a professional?
Signs that it's time to consult a doctor
Several indicators can alert you to the need for professional help:
- Lack of significant and lasting progress despite constant efforts.
- Constant frustration and stress for you during interactions (e.g., walks).
- Associated behaviors: aggression, excessive barking, reactivity, intense fear, or separation anxiety.
- Injuries or risks: If your dog's behavior puts you in danger (falls, strangulation, etc.).
- Lack of confidence: If you no longer feel confident in handling your dog outdoors.
- Reactive dog: If your dog reacts excessively (growling, attempting to bite) to certain stimuli.
Choosing the right professional
The choice is crucial. Make sure you choose someone who uses respectful and positive reinforcement-based methods.
- Positive methods: Favor professionals who use reward and motivation. Avoid aversive methods (choke collars, electric collars, prong collars, etc.).
- Experience and references: Ask about their qualifications and request references.
- Personalized approach: The professional must offer an approach tailored to your dog and your specific situation, not a universal method.
- Communication: He must be able to clearly explain the principles of education and techniques to you.
- Individual sessions: For specific problems, individual sessions are often more effective at the beginning.
What a professional can do for you
A trainer or behaviorist can help you in several ways:
- Accurate diagnosis : It will identify the root causes of the behavior.
- Customized training plan : He will develop a training program tailored to your dog.
- Learning the techniques: He will show you how to correctly apply the techniques and adjust your posture.
- Emotional management : It can help you to better manage your own emotions (frustration, impatience).
Remember: Training is a partnership between you, your dog, and, if necessary, a professional. The goal is to build a relationship of trust and mutual respect.
2. Mistakes to avoid: Common pitfalls that sabotage education
Dog training is a delicate process where every interaction counts. Knowing these common mistakes will allow you to avoid them and maximize your chances of success.
1. Lack of consistency
If you apply the rule one day and ignore it the next, you send mixed signals. Your dog will learn that sometimes, bad behavior (e.g., pulling) works.
How to avoid it: Establish clear rules and make sure all family members consistently follow them. A short, well-planned walk is better than a long, inconsistent one.
2. Use aversive or punitive methods
Choke collars, prong collars, or excessive reprimands are cruel and ineffective. They create fear and anxiety, damage confidence, and can lead to aggressive behavior.
How to avoid it: Focus on positive reinforcement. Reward good behavior and ignore or redirect bad behavior. The goal is to associate the walk with pleasant experiences.
3. Failing to meet the dog's basic needs
A dog that lacks physical exercise or mental stimulation will have excess energy and will be more prone to pulling or behaving undesirably.
How to avoid it: Make sure your dog gets enough exercise appropriate for its breed and age, as well as daily mental stimulation (scent games, occupation toys).
4. Lack of patience and unrealistic expectations
Training takes time, and every dog learns at its own pace. Expecting immediate results or becoming discouraged quickly is a mistake. The owner's frustration is felt by the dog.
How to avoid it: Be patient and celebrate every small victory . Set realistic goals and take a break if you feel frustrated.
5. Using unsuitable equipment
A retractable leash, a choke collar, or an ill-fitting harness can sabotage your efforts. Retractable leashes teach the dog that pulling gives more freedom.
How to avoid it: Invest in a good quality harness and a fixed leash of an appropriate length (1.5 to 2 meters). Make sure the equipment is properly fitted.
6. Failing to manage distractions gradually
Starting training in a highly stimulating environment (crowded park, busy street) is a common mistake. Your dog will be too distracted to learn.
How to avoid it: Progress gradually. Start training in a calm environment and progressively increase the level of distraction. Reward calmness in the presence of stimuli.
7. Not sufficiently rewarding good behavior
Positive reinforcement works because it motivates the dog. If the rewards aren't frequent or appealing enough, your dog won't have any reason to change its behavior.
How to avoid it: Use high-value treats and enthusiastic praise. The timing of the reward is crucial: it must be given within 1 to 3 seconds of the desired behavior.