Public Dog Training: Steer Clear of These Three Common Blunders for a Peaceful Outing with Your Canine Companion
Dogs can enjoy being out in public, but it's important to remember that they may not be able to stay in one place for long periods. Amelia Steele, a professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant based in Ontario, Canada, has shared some common mistakes to avoid when taking dogs out in public.
- Not properly socializing the dog before public outings can lead to fear or aggression.
- Allowing the dog to pull on the leash or not having proper leash control can cause discomfort and make it difficult to manage the dog.
- Failing to bring necessary supplies such as water, waste bags, treats, etc., can lead to inconvenience and disrupt the outing.
- Ignoring the dog's body language and signs of stress can worsen the situation and make the dog anxious.
- Not respecting other people and dogs in public spaces can create tension and potentially lead to conflicts.
- Taking the dog out when it is not appropriately trained for public behavior can result in undesirable actions and create a negative experience for both the dog and its owner.
When it comes to settling your dog while out in public, it's essential to avoid disrupting their natural settling behavior. Rewarding your dog with treats when they start to settle can start them at the beginning of their rest cycle again, and keeping your dog in a constant state of concentration by rewarding them for settling can be counterproductive. Instead, encouraging calm behavior and letting them rest once they've settled is a good practice.
Amelia Steele also advises against insisting on a dog maintaining its place on a settle mat while out in public, as it can create more frustration. Instead, let your dog adjust to their environment before offering treats.
In addition to her expert advice, Amelia Steele has recommended the EcoKind Premium Yak Chew as a suitable and beneficial treat for dogs when out in public. These chews are natural, last long, and are more affordable than regular dog treats. The resealable packaging makes them perfect for taking them out and about.
The EcoKind Premium Yak Chew has been recognised as the best overall in a guide to long-lasting dog chews, making it a good choice for outings with dogs. However, it's important not to overuse treats as a means of encouraging settling behavior.
Amelia Steele, also known as Amelia the Dog Trainer, has a social media presence, with an account on Instagram (@ameliathedogtrainer). For more precise tips directly from Amelia Steele, check her official website, social media channels, or podcast episodes.
- Proper training is key to preventing a dog from becoming agitated in public, as failing to do so can lead to disruptive behavior.
- A pet's lifestyle should include socialization, and exposing a dog to a variety of environments and experiences can help minimize fear or aggression.
- When taking a dog out in public, it's crucial to pay attention to its behavioral cues to ensure its comfort and well-being.
- To enhance training and care for your dog, consider purchasing long-lasting and natural treats such as the EcoKind Premium Yak Chew for use in public settings.
- By following Amelia Steele's guidance, dog owners can foster a healthy pet-friendly home-and-garden lifestyle that respects the needs of their pets and other pets in public spaces.
