![]() You’ve probably heard a lot about how crucial consistency is in dog training—and that’s true! But it’s important to understand where consistency really matters and where flexibility can actually benefit you and your dog. When Consistency is Key Let’s start with cues (the signals you give your dog to perform specific behaviors). Being consistent with the words you use is essential. For instance, if you use the word “down” to ask your dog to lie down, but also use “down” when they’re jumping up on you, you’re setting the stage for confusion. Similarly, if you sometimes say “down” to ask your dog to lie down, but other times say “chill” or “relax,” it can be tough for your dog to understand what you really want. While it’s possible for dogs to learn different words for the same behavior, keeping it simple by using the same cue each time is often the best route. This is particularly true when teaching new behaviors, as consistency helps your dog learn more quickly and clearly. Consistency isn’t just about the words you use—it extends to the tone of your voice and how often you give the cue. For example, repeating a cue over and over can become background noise to your dog. They might even start thinking they don’t need to respond until you’ve said it multiple times. By saying the cue once, you avoid teaching your dog that ignoring you the first few times is an option. Another area where consistency matters is in how often you practice a behavior. Let’s say you’re working on polite leash walking. If you’re asking your dog to walk nicely most of the time, but occasionally let them pull because they’re excited to sniff something, you’re sending mixed signals. Your dog might learn that pulling on the leash works when they really want something, which can undermine your training efforts. If leash manners are something you’re struggling with, feel free to reach out. I have some effective strategies for teaching polite leash walking! Where Consistency Can Work Against You Now, here’s where things get tricky—consistency isn’t always a good thing. Humans are naturally inconsistent, and that can sometimes work against us in training. The real challenge arises when we’re not around to maintain that consistency. For instance, let’s talk about potty training. Ideally, we’re consistently taking our puppy outside when they need to go and rewarding them for pottying outside. But what happens when we’re at work or out of the house? We can’t be there to take them out, and that’s where problems arise. The puppy might learn that it’s okay to potty inside when you’re not home because no one is there to take them outside or correct them. Even worse, your puppy may figure out that they can go potty in the house whenever you’re not looking. A fascinating study showed that dogs are aware when you’re paying attention to them. In this study, dogs were told to “leave it” when a treat was placed in front of them. As long as the human was watching, the dogs wouldn’t take the treat. But as soon as the person closed their eyes, many of the dogs grabbed the treat! It’s fun to try this with your own dog. Dogs are incredibly observant, and they can quickly learn when you’re unavailable to redirect them—whether you’re washing dishes or getting into the shower. This can be especially problematic with behaviors like potty training and destructive chewing. Planning for Inconsistencies The best way to handle the inconsistencies we can’t control is by planning for them. For example, in the case of potty training, you might want to use crates, baby gates, or puppy pads when you’re not able to be there. This way, you’re preventing the puppy from developing bad habits when you’re not around to guide them. Below are some links to resources that can help with potty training and managing destructive chewing. Consistency, where it matters, will go a long way in helping your dog learn faster and more reliably. In the meantime, happy training! Potty Training: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:6b6f792b-56b7-4b41-894a-33b79c9c51b2 Destructive Chewing: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:ba367490-5c9e-4764-8d9c-44285dc460d1
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![]() One of the most important things I emphasize in my dog training is the significance of proper socialization. Whether you're starting with a new puppy or working with an adult dog, the socialization process is crucial for helping them feel comfortable and confident in various environments. It sets the foundation for their entire life—shaping how they interact with people, animals, and the world around them. However, when it comes to puppies under four months old, socialization needs to be approached with a focus on safety. Since puppies this young have developing immune systems and are not fully vaccinated, we must balance their need for exposure with protecting their health. Safely Socializing Puppies Under Four Months Old
Socializing Puppies: Early and Often Once you’ve laid the groundwork for safe socialization, you can begin exposing your puppy to a variety of experiences. Remember to always go at their pace and use positive reinforcement to build confidence. Here’s how I typically approach socializing puppies:
Socializing Adult Dogs: It’s Never Too Late If you’ve adopted an adult dog or have a dog that didn’t get much socialization early on, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of hope! While it can take more time and patience, socialization is possible, no matter the dog’s age. My approach to adult dogs differs slightly from working with puppies:
Common Mistakes to Avoid There are a few pitfalls I see people fall into when trying to socialize their dogs, both puppies and adults. Here’s what to watch out for:
Final Thoughts In my work at Peaceful Paws, I see firsthand how properly socialized dogs are happier, more confident, and better equipped to handle whatever life throws their way. Whether you’re working with a playful puppy or a more reserved adult dog, taking the time to focus on socialization will pay off in the long run. Remember, patience, positivity, and safety are key to socialization, especially with young puppies. Every new experience is an opportunity for your dog to learn and grow. You can find a complete guide to socialization in my book Whole World, Whole Dog: Socializing Your Dog to People, Places, and Things: https://tinyurl.com/3cnz5udc ![]() Dining at restaurants with dogs is not a right, but a privilege and one ill-mannered dog (or person) can spoil that privilege. It is ultimately a courtesy of the restaurant to allow dogs. Because state health regulations must be followed, owners have the final say as to whether or not dogs are allowed in their establishment's outside dining areas. Pets are mainly banned from restaurants due to health and safety concerns. Therefore, only the best-behaved, should be ambassadors for the cause. Dogs must be masters of basic obedience behaviors or they won’t be welcomed by restaurateurs and patrons. At very least, dogs must know sit, down, and stay. But to set a good example and remain in favor with the establishment, we’ll have Fido rocking his behavior in public. Beyond Fido’s Manners: Minding our End of the Leash
Fido’s Manners
Beyond the Basics for Dining with Fido As with teaching any behavior, we won’t be doing on-the-job training. We’ll do it at home with little or no distraction, and then gradually working up to the real-life situation. We must first build a firm foundation and then help the dog to generalize the desired behaviors. The first visit to a restaurant will be short, having only a cup of coffee. We’ll practice and generalize beforehand by going to other places where dogs are typically allowed, such as pet supply and home improvement stores.
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pat BlockerPat Blocker is a certified professional dog trainer with a wealth of experience in the field. With a deep understanding of canine behavior and training techniques, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals create a peaceful and enriching environment for their dogs. |