Title: Of Doors and Dogs-the Blog
Introduction:
When I was a kid coming home from school, I'd have to open the backyard gate to park my bike. Our German Shepherd would always try to sneak past and often would. It was terrifying because she would run down the street hunting for small dogs and cats. Besides for the safety of your dog there is another important reason for you to get control of doors and that is the impact this simple act can have on your relationship with your dog. In this short blog post, we'll explore the significance of doors in the canine world and delve into the art of teaching your dog rules, boundaries, and limitations. See the short video above or at https://youtu.be/wA8b7U_R5gY
The Pack Leader Mentality:
Dogs are inherently pack animals and it is not in their nature to run away from their pack leader. In a human-dog dynamic, it's crucial, of course, to establish yourself as the pack leader. The doorway provides a perfect scenario to reinforce this dynamic. When approaching the door, be sure to lead the way and make sure your dog gives you plenty of respectful space around the doorway. And your dog exits only after you have granted permission, "OK!" This simple act communicates to your dog that you set the rules and dictate the pace of interactions. Same as when you walk the dog, he doesn't go ahead of you lest you relinquish your top-dog status.
Visualization Techniques:
Dogs respond well to your calm state and sense of direction. Even before reaching the door, take a moment to visualize what you want to do and the behavior you want from your dog. Envision a calm and composed exit, with your dog waiting for your signal before proceeding. This mental preparation can significantly influence your dog's behavior.
Permission-Based Exiting:
One key aspect of door etiquette is teaching your dog that they need your permission to cross thresholds. Doors should become psychological barriers to your dog. Just because the door is open does not mean it is OK to bolt. Every threshold doesn't have to have the same rules but be consistent and strictly enforce them. This instills a sense of discipline and reinforces your role as the decision-maker.
Setting Boundaries:
Dogs thrive on consistency and clear boundaries. If your dog attempts to rush through the door ahead of you, a firm "No" coupled with a leash correction can help establish the boundary. In the beginning, keep a hand on the crate, car or house door and be ready to use it along with your body to block the dog's uninvited attempt to enter or exit. Be consistent with your response to ensure the dog understands the expectations.
Understanding the Root Cause:
Many dogs bolt through doors simply because they haven't been taught otherwise and/or don't recognize you clearly as the boss. In nature, dogs do not challenge the pack leader's authority by rushing ahead. By addressing this behavior, you're not just preventing door-related issues but also reminding your dog of its back-of-the-pack status.
Conclusion:
Mastering door etiquette is more than just managing your dog's behavior; it's a powerful tool for strengthening your role as the pack leader. By setting rules, boundaries, and limitations, you create a harmonious and respectful relationship with your dog. The next time you approach a door with your dog, remember that it's not just about going in or out—it's about reinforcing the unspoken language that defines your leadership in the canine world.