How to Train a Farm Dog Step 2: The Dog
Introduction
Working with any kind of animal requires you to be observant. This post will outline some of things I notice about my pet before I work with them. I want to be prepared to connect in the way my dog needs me.
Daily Activities
What has my dog already done today? I need to know if she’s had a lot of physical and mental activity or has been inside cooped up all day. If it’s the beginning of the day, I know that my dogs are excited and energetic. If I have already taken my dog out for a long walk, he may be less excitable and more focused. When did he eat? If I’m using treats as a reward, I may feed less than normal so the treats will motivate him more. Did she get to play with her toys today? Has it been a good day or did they get in trouble? Did anyone else in the house work with my dog today?
What Makes My Dog Happy?
- Belly Rubs
- Butt Rubs
- Running
- Fetching
- Sniffing
- Eating
- Marking Territory
- Chasing
- Chewing
- Jumping
- Sleeping
- This list could keep going and depends on the dog I’m working with.
Physical Attributes
How old is my pet? Is she a puppy with a short attention span? Is she an older dog that can’t do any many physical activities? Is this my middle-aged dog who needs some exercise with training? What breed is my dog? When I work with my Anatolian Shepherds, I remember they get bored doing the same command over and over. When I work with my Labrador Retriever, I can reward with fetching a toy. Does he have any physical injuries? I like to mentally check off sections of their body. How’s the skin and coat? Sleek, shiny, smooth? Itchy, flaky, red? Any limping? Is my pet spayed or neutered? Before my dog Anna came into heat, she would become less tolerant of other dogs and less focused in listening to me. Does your unneutered male dog need to go mark every tree and bush before they can focus?
Conclusion
Taking a few minutes to consider how your dog is feeling; what they have been doing all day; and what makes them happy will improve your training session. I want to meet their physical and mental needs before and during training.
What kind of dog are you working with right now? Leave a comment!