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The Age of Enlightenment For Pet Training: Housebreaking a Dog In the Modern Era
Celebrated dog trainer Tamar Geller known for her work with Oprah Winfry’s pets believes that dogs like any other animal operates on the principle of what brings pleasure and pain.
This is the reason why the theory of behavior modification is very important in animal training as it provides a solid basis on how to train pets. If we want to be successful in modifying any behavior whether it be housebreaking a dog or teaching him where to sleep, we need to provide a good reason to the dog’s mind why it should perform a behavior that runs counter to its instinct. "You want to teach a dog that doing what you want would be a more pleasurable experience for him" adds Gellar. Conversely other trainers believe in breaking the dog’s spirit first in order for its master to start teaching it. This is something that Geller saw during the time she was in the army. She calls this approach the 'dark ages' of dog training.
Numerous dog trainers are now in agreement that the “dark ages” of dog training is on its way out and a more enlightened approach is gaining ground. Motivation is now a key issue when training one’s pet as well as positive approaches to the age old training needs. Geller suggests several modifications when housebreaking a dog. Instead of the traditional firm almost harsh voice that was prescribed before, she now suggests a calm and friendly tone. This is in line with the positive feeling we want the dogs to feel when they are with us and doing the correct things. Next when we are praising them we want it to be specific. After all what does good dog really mean?
Rewards in the form of treats also need to be incorporated when housebreaking a dog. To Geller we need three types of rewards so that we can better approximate the different levels of a dog’s accomplishment. If there is an effort use the lowest kind of treat maybe a bit of dog food. If the effort is almost complete but not quite there then the next level, his favorite doggie biscuit. If the process was completed then the highest level of treat perhaps a piece of chicken meat. You may assign appropriate ones according to the preference of your dog. Lastly be patient and consistent. If you are not consistent then you undo what you have gained. Housebreaking a dog whether young or old will respond in relatively the same way. After all is there a dog that does not bloom with attention?