It is likely that in order to change your dog’s behavior, you may need to change your behavior at the same time. Behavior change for anyone will take time and best be accomplished with “baby steps”, small approximations of the behavior your want from yourself and from your dog.

Be kind and compassionate with yourself and your dog. Mistakes will be made. That’s just life.

The importance of consistency in dog training is often stressed no matter the method of training. Yes, training will go faster if the humans are more consistent, but let’s be realistic. We’re only human. We will become more consistent as we practice our new behaviors and see positive results. It’s a journey for both you and your dog.

How about an example?

If your typical response to your dog pulling on the leash during the walk is to walk a few more steps, then stop, then yell at your dog, then pull on the leash, this is your habit. It probably works some of the time or you wouldn’t still be doing it. If you want to try a new positive reinforcement approach, you will need to respond differently. Now when your dog pulls, you will stop, make a sound that your dog knows means a treat is coming (see recipe section), and turn to walk in the opposite direction. This will take some practice for you both! The dog will start to see that if he wants to keep moving in a particular direction, he shouldn’t pull, and as the pulling decreases (even slightly) you will be encouraged by the changes you have made. Progress!