Lately I’ve been encountering many reactive, out of control dogs during training. It’s important to remember the value of using markers to shape, mold and capture your dog’s good behavior and correct his or her unruly behavior. A Marker is a word that “marks” a behavior at the exact moment it is done. Every time your dog obeys your command or exhibits calm behavior make sure you give her a reward marker- “Good Boy/Good Girl” in a high, happy voice followed immediately by a treat or anything else your dog values e.g., petting, praise a walk around the block, his favorite chew toy etc.
Every time your dog does something you don’t want, use your no reward markers- off, quiet, leave it, drop it, and the general marker-“eh, eh”. Make sure your facial expression, body movement and voice tone lets your dog know you mean business! The correction marker can be paired with an auditory aversive such as a handclap, ultrasound etc. As soon as your dog stops the unwanted behavior, give him a reward marker.
If your consistent with the above, your dog will start choosing the behavior you want because good things are happening when he does. The bad behaviors will naturally extinguish because they aren’t being rewarded! Remember-NEVER yell or get physical with your pup. This will diminish your bond with your dog as well as your leadership status. Good pack leaders never lose their cool or get physical with their members!