Doling Out Discipline

There are those moments when our dogs get themselves into just a bit of trouble. It is enough trouble, or has happened often enough, that you are at the end of your patience. You call the dog to you, maybe raise your voice, and swat the dog on his rear. Nothing wrong with that, right? Wrong! Never call your dog to you so that you can punish him. You may not notice it now, but eventually your dog will cower as he slowly comes to you and then will not come at all when called. Would you come if you knew you were going to be punished?

You might say that sometimes you call the dog and reward him. But you continue to do the opposite too. You're sending mixed signals and your dog will choose to stay away rather than take the chance of a negative exchange.

When you must use physical means to make your point, go to the dog.
Always go to the dog. Do not bring or call the dog to you.

Whenever the dog approaches you, this should always -- without exception -- be a positive experience. Remember, praise when the dog is coming to you, discipline when you are going to the dog.

Afterthought: If you are angry or out of patience, this is exactly the worst time to discipline your dog. It's also the worst time to discipline your children. Allow yourself to calm down. You will still be an effective disciplinarian.