By Steve Kotowske
I was asked a question recently that I would like to share with my readers. “I’d like to know why my dog loves every dog and person inside my house, plays well outside too… but when he sees them outside the house through the window he rips the blinds down.”
This is more common than people might think. There are many reasons a dog might do this so I will attempt to break it down into the most likely reason without having met your dog.
The barrier between your dog and people can pose a serious problem. It can be frustrating when your dog makes visual contact with a person on the outside of your home. Energy can build like the cartoon character who swirls fire in their hands. That energy can be misused because your dog may simply want to play! It is hard for some dogs to decompress. When this energy is not released the dog becomes frustrated and redirects the energy. For some dogs this is shown through excessive barking, while in others it turns destructive. We must stop the energy from building.
What is the solution? Training, teaching, and showing your dog how to remain calm. Doing so requires dog owners to be intentional in their efforts by staging scenarios within which to train.
I use a method called “coffee and dogs.” The concept is pretty simple. First, get a great cup of coffee poured and have your dog on a leash. Have a seat, put your foot on the leash while your dog lays next to you. The idea is for you to enjoy that cup of coffee while your dog remains by your side. By having your foot on the leash, the dog cannot get up – people can walk by, trucks can drive by, dogs can pass by – and your dog remains calmly by your side. As your dog attempts to get up, a little pressure on the leash will ensure he stays put. After a few attempts, and the dog has not been able to engage at the window, the dog begins to calm down and relax. This is effective with almost any dog because it has a positive outcome. Your dog will see that there was no harm in simply ignoring the passersby. Having your friends assist by passing by should be simple enough, or if you know the routine of people passing by your house, set the time aside and be prepared to train!
Drive switching is an important part of owning a dog and dealing with behavioral issues. Knowing what drive the dog is engaging, and effectively redirecting the drive is critical to having a balanced relationship.
Get a cup of coffee and practice a little “coffee and dogs” in public places, too. Enjoy your dog more by having a dog that doesn’t need to engage every person or every dog no matter the circumstance! Teach your dog to rest.
I will be doing “Coffee and Dogs” training once the weather is more consistent and pleasant temperatures prevail. We will simply sit and have coffee with our dogs. I’ll give you an hour of adult interaction and instruct how to hold the leash while maintaining a sense of calm. All I ask in return is that someone buy my cup of coffee! Our area affords us so much opportunity to enjoy our dogs outdoors that we should embrace it. Follow us on Facebook (@Whats up Dog) to find out when we will have our next “Coffee and Dogs” free mini-training event. All breeds are welcome, all people are welcome. Let’s create some positive outcomes together for a better dog community!
Steve Kotowske is Senior Trainer of What’s Up Dog in Santa Rosa Beach and MIramar Beach, offering Professional Dog Grooming, Dog Training, Boarding, and Doggie Daycare. “What’s up Dog” is the area’s largest independent pet retailer with a focus on holistic food products. For more information Call (850) 420-2894 or visit www.www.bestobedience.com.
Author: Sowal Editor
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