Do’s & Don’ts Of Dog Manners – How To Have a Sophisticated Pup
Nothing warms our hearts quite like the companionship and unconditional love you receive from our four-legged friends.
But, just like people, dogs need to learn good dog manners to live peacefully with humans and other pets.
So, whether you’re a new dog owner bringing home your first puppy or a seasoned pet parent fostering a rescue dog, here is our guide on how to make sure your pet has impeccable manners.
Do’s of Dog Manners
Do use positive reinforcement when training your dog
Training is the cornerstone of good dog manners, and the best way to train your faithful companion is with treats and praise.
Our Terrier Truffles are excellent for encouraging positive behaviour and can be given when your dog follows basic commands such as sit, stay or leave it.
Training them to follow basic commands also helps your pet to understand expectations in certain situations, such as knowing to sit when people visit or not to pick things up that could harm them.
Do socialise your dog early
Dogs that are well socialised are typically happier and more confident.
By exposing your dog to different people, pets and environments both indoors and outdoors helps to reduce their anxiety and aggression. This includes getting them used to everyday household noises such as washing machines and vacuum cleaners. Also, take them for regular walks where they can learn to meet and interact with new dogs and help build up their confidence.
But remember to respect other dogs’ boundaries, as not all dogs enjoy socialising with new dogs, especially older dogs.
Do remember to keep your dog on a lead in public places
No matter how well-trained your furry friend is, keeping them on a lead when out in public not only protects them but those around you as it prevents any unwanted encounters with other larger dogs or wildlife or people who may have a phobia of dogs. A lead also keeps your pet from running into danger, such as roads or ponds where they can be injured.
Do clean up after your dog
One of the unbreakable rules of being a responsible pet parent is picking up after your dog when in public areas. Always carry waste bags such as these Enviropaws biodegradable bags and dispose of them properly in order to help keep public paths and parks clean and sanitary.
Do teach your dog to greet people politely
We touched on this one earlier, but teaching your dog to greet people politely and not jump up and bark at people deserves a rule of its own. After all, not everyone enjoys having an overly excited dog or puppy jump and bark at them when entering a room.
Again, use positive reinforcement to teach your dog to wait calmly and gain permission before approaching guests. This prevents any accidental trips, scares, or damage to both your guests and your faithful companion.
Don’ts of dog manners
Don’t allow loud, excessive barking
We know dogs bark; it’s a natural part of their behavior. But when barking becomes excessive, especially in shared houses or spaces, it can become disruptive to your neighbors.
A good way to stop this is to train your dog to understand quiet commands. If training doesn’t work, then it might be a good idea to consult a vet to help you address any underlying issues that cause excessive barking such as boredom, stress or anxiety.
Don’t feed your dog at the table
We understand those puppy dog eyes can be hard to resist but don’t give into begging at the table as it can lead to bad habits and potential health issues. Also, dogs don’t understand that certain human foods are bad for them. Instead, train your dog to stay at their designated feeding space and eat from their bowl during mealtimes.
Don’t leave your dog unattended when in public
While it can be tempting to leave your dog tied up outside a shop for a few minutes just while you pop in, it’s not worth the risk as your dog can be easily stolen or cause stress and anxiety for your four-legged friend.
Don’t allow your dog to chase wildlife or other animals
While dogs have natural prey instincts and love to play chase, allowing them to chase squirrels, cats, birds or other dogs can be dangerous. Instead, play it safe and take dog friendly toys with you when you take your pet for a walk. Also, train them to respond to call commands if you think they may try to chase another animal.
Teaching your pet good manners isn’t just about obedience, it’s about ensuring your dog is not only well behaved but also remains safe both indoors and out.
By following our do’s and don’ts of dog manners, you’ll help create positive experiences for your dog and for the people and pets they interact with. Which means they’ll be even more deserving of a Ruffingtons treat for being such a good boy or girl.
