Dog training isn't always ups and "forward progression"... it actually usually consists of a LOT of setbacks, challenges, and "dips" in behavior. But truthfully, that is to be expected!
Remember that not every technique will work for your dog, and that sometimes your dog may just be having an off day when we ask for a behavior.
In fact, sometimes training will look more like this:
But there are things that we can do to improve your pup's behavior over time to experience more peaks than valleys.
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5 POWERFUL TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR PUP'S BEHAVIOR
TIP #1- SET GOALS
Most things worth accomplishing in life take a lot of hard work. In my life, I've seen the most success with my dog's behavior when I've set goals.
I don't typically like focusing goals on 'behavior growth' necessarily, but more on how often you'll train, how long you'll train, and what behaviors you will work on.
If you set SMART goals (look that up if you aren't familiar with it 😃), you'll find that you'll become more consistent with training. And in my experience, staying consistent (more on that later) is one of the most vital ways to help your dog's behavior see more growth than setbacks!
Related Reading: 21 Dog Training Mistakes
TIP #2- TRACK PROGRESS
Part of setting goals is keeping track of progress. Plus, keeping track of your dog's progress can help you visualize the growth that is occurring.
In the Pupford App, you can rate your dog's behaviors so that you have a snapshot of where your dog stands with different behaviors like recall, leash walking, and more!
Again, tracking progress will help you understand more thoroughly how your dog is actually progressing!
TIP #3- VIEW BEHAVIOR AS A WHOLE
If you're feeling down about a specific behavior your dog is struggling with, remember to look at your dog's behavior as a whole.
While your dog may be struggling with jumping, for example, find the good things your dog is doing and focus on those. And what you'll realize is that your dog's "behavior" is likely better than you're giving your dog credit for!
TIP #4- STAY CONSISTENT
The key to pushing through your dog's behavior setbacks is consistency.
Training takes a lot of effort over an extended period of time. And it can't just be for a few days or weeks... it takes consistent effort! Even if you only train for 5-10 minutes per day, that's better than nothing!
Plus, the more consistent you are with training your dog the more quickly you will be able to overcome the setbacks and 'dips' in progression.
TIP #5- BE PATIENT
Even more important than consistency is patience! Staying patient with your puppy is vital.
Often as pup parents, we put timelines in our head as to how quickly our dog should learn a certain behavior... that is a mistake.
Not only do you need to be patient with your dog's progress, but you need to be patient with yourself. Raising a dog can be hard work, so remember to cut yourself some slack and be patient with results!
What else has helped you overcome setbacks in your dog's behavior and training? Let me know in the comments!
