We often hear the word "obedience" when it comes to dog training. But what does this really mean? And what should our expectations be when it comes to our dog's behavior? Let's take a closer look.

The Problem with Obedience

It’s common to hear the word ‘obedience’ when talking about dog training. But in reality, 'obedience' is an outdated way of thinking about our dog’s behavior because this word implies a relationship built upon dominance and subservience.

The verbiage around the concept of "dog training" ("obedience", "compliance", "commands", etc.) play a role in the expectations and attitudes that we all culturally have about dog behavior, and need to be examined as part of the epidemic of "behavior problems.

- Kim Brophey

Dog training shouldn’t be thought of as teaching a dog a cue and expecting robotic-like behavior; but rather building a relationship based on mutual respect and trust. 

But Isn’t Obedience Important?

Of course, it’s important for our dogs to have listening skills, but it’s equally important for our dogs to have choice.  A prime example is loose leash walking compared to heeling.  Our dogs should have the opportunity to walk ahead and sniff the heck out of the curb while we slow humans play catch up.

Unless there is a potential trigger in our vicinity and next to me is safest, my dog doesn’t need to be restricted to walking only my left side.  This balance between allowing them space they need to explore their surroundings plus knowing when its important follow rules help keep everyone stress-free!

How Positive Reinforcement Improves the Human-Canine Connection

Training your dog with positive reinforcement is the best way to form a strong, trusting bond. Not only does it make for stress-free interactions, but it’s also fun - who doesn't love giving their dog treats? And not only do dogs want to please us, but they are also fast learners.

Reward your dog when they show good, polite behavior.  Positive reinforcement is no different than buying a child a video game after getting a good grade or receiving a paycheck for your hard work. With rewards, as opposed to dominance or power, you can communicate with your dog in a healthy way. 

Dog Training Tips that Work at Home

Think of manners training as an exercise in teamwork between yourself and your dog.  You don’t need a lot of time to train, short sessions are perfectly fine.   If there is a behavior that your dog does that you think is rude, train them to do something else instead.  For example, for a dog that likes to jump on guests, make it a habit to pay (aka reward) when all four paws remain on the floor.  If you have a dog that practically takes you out from behind to rush through the door, then ask them for a sit before releasing them out.  The more consistent you are, the faster the new, desirable behavior becomes habit which makes your dog’s understanding of your rules and expectations clearer.

Accepting Your Dog for Who They Really Are

With all this talk about teaching our pet dogs to be on their best behavior, let's not forget that no matter what we shouldn’t disregard who they are.  Dogs are sentient beings with natural desires to dig, chew, forage, shred, walk in non-linear patterns, and roll in stinky things. But often many of these desires are viewed as incongruous with the rules of the household. So how can we give our dogs an outlet for these desires while still maintaining manners? The answer lies in enrichment. 

Indulge your dog’s amazing senses with enrichment.  Instead of going straight, think "sniffari!" - take some zig-zag routes and even circles as they sniff around looking for clues left by all people, animals and objects that travelled before them. Pack some tasty treats to reinforce check-ins, loose leash walking and let the fallen leaves serve as nature’s snuffle mat.  Encourage your dog play independently; put a couple drops of fox, squirrel, raccoon, or deer scent onto plush toys to trigger their curiosity.

What Kind of Relationship Do You Want to Have?

In our haste to turn our dogs into perfect k9 citizens, we often lose sight of what’s important – having a well-adjusted, happy furry friend by our side. As dog lovers and pet guardians, it’s time to ditch this outdated mindset of getting dogs to “obey” us.  Because our dogs are eager learners who want nothing more than to please us, set them up for success by using r+ dog training aka positive reinforcement methods that encourage trust and an enthusiasm for learning.  What's more important--a well-adjusted fuzzy buddy or an obedience champion? We think the answer is clear.

We love positive reinforcement too! Please share with another dog lover or leave a comment below.

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