Dogs have a way of getting our attention, whether we want it or not. Your dog may say “ notice me, I’m here” by barking until you respond, which may be fine at the appropriate time. However, that does not go well when trying to talk on the phone or visiting with friends in conversation, as that barking may become annoying. I know from experience that many times when I get on the phone, my dogs always seem to have something to say by barking, just like kids. Yes they do have a way of getting our attention, although our dogs need to learn when the time is right. The special staff at your local Rockford area Petsmart or Petco as listed below (or one closest to your home) can help you with special tips on training your favorite canine appropriately. Remember that your dog is much more intelligent than you give it credit.
If you cater to your dog at inappropriate times, he will not know what is acceptable and what is not. Some of the ways your dog will seek your attention, aside from barking, is through body language, whining, pawing at your legs, unusual and funny behavior, bringing you his leash o favorite toy, vomiting or pretending to be hurt. If you acknowledge these attention seeking behaviors, you are basically telling your dog “it is okay to bother me any time you want.” Trust me if your dog wants your attention, it will do whatever it takes to get it.
Training your dog should begin with basic obedience from the time it enters your home and family. A well-trained dog will be able to respond to a command, letting him know you cannot be disturbed at that moment. The best form of training is always through positive reinforcements which reaps more benefits than reprimanding him for inappropriate behavior. Ignoring the behavior works best when your dog disturbs you in an untimely manner. The one thing that dogs hate more, especially from their owners, is to be ignored. For instance, if you’re on the phone and your dog is barking for your attention, keep turning your back to him as though he is not there. This will annoy him terribly and he will eventually walk away. Obviously this will not work immediately and will take time, patience and lots of repetition. On the other hand, if at that moment you cater to your dog or even respond in any way, the dog will recognize this as getting attention even though it may be negative attention. In essence he is calling the shots. Remember that dogs are pack animals and you need to be their leader, and not the other way around. Without realizing it, most of us ignore our dogs when they are quiet and behaving, and seem to react more when doing something inappropriate. That is just a natural response. You should actually praise your dog during those quiet moments so that he gets the message that you are pleased with the quiet behavior.
It is certainly okay to give your dog special attention when you’re able to do so, but if your dog seems to require it excessively there could be reasons for that. Maybe your dog is not getting enough exercise, he’s bored or he is left alone for extended periods of time with all that pent up energy. Be sure your pets always get ample exercise as well as provide plenty of toys, especially puzzle toys for mental stimulation. Providing these types of toys expressly when your dog is left alone will ward off boredom.
Of course you want to enjoy your dog but it should be on your terms. In order to avoid untimely attention from your dog, remember to be calm when he comes to you with his demands. Don’t speak to him or even make eye contact. Continue to do what you were doing. As your dog settles down quietly, praise him and give him your attention. If he does not settle down, continue ignoring him until he does. More extensive training may be required for the persistent dog such as removing it from the room for periods of time until it settles down. By all means do not respond or reward your dog until he is calm and quiet or you’ll be fighting a losing battle. If not successful at home, you may need to seek professional help from a dog trainer.
Persistence and patience are well rewarded when training your dog basic obedience and behavior. Give your dog all the love and attention it so well deserves as long as it is on your own terms so that you can thoroughly enjoy the time together.
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/attention-seeking-behavior/page1.aspx
http://www.about-cocker-spaniels.com/attention-seeking-behaviour.html
For all your pets needs in Rockford, go to your local PETCO - 6305 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 229-0184 - http://www.petco.com/or your local PETSMART - 6320 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 397-7880 - http://stores.petsmart.com/result-details.php?store=493 - PETLAND, (815) 332-4200 - www.petland.com/
For many of your pets essentials, visit your local Rockford area CVS pharmacies. There are four convenient locations - 3134 11th Street, Rockford, IL 61109, (815)398-0048 - 110 S Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61108 - 3718 Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103, (815)877-9620- 2454 S. Alpine Rd.,
Rockford, IL 61108, (815)399-5421- http://www.cvsphoto.com/home.
Looking for wholesome, natural and homemade treats for your favorite canine best friend, Ledfoot’s Pet Bakery near the Rockford area is happy to meet your needs. Check out the website at http://LEDFOOTSPETBAKERY.COM. You can contact Susan Weitzel at 815 784-6358, susan@Ledfootspetbakery.com.
Take your dog to the park . . . the doggy park . . . Rockford’s two locations - http://www.dogparkusa.com/parks/IL/Rockfordor check out this site - http://www.tripswithpets.com/location/united-states/il/rockford/parks
In the Rockford, Illinois area or wherever you are, this site is a must have for all animal lovers. We always want to provide the best care, safety and love for our pets and this site is chock full ¼ of reviews and imperative information on important products for all pet lovers. An avid animal lover creates this site with your pets in mind. It is advisable to put this site in your favorites or bookmarks and check it out often as this pet blogging site of important information is updated almost daily. Please visit this site at http://loveourpets.eproduct-review.com/and visit often. Also sign up for my pet blog and let me know if you have questions or concerns regarding your pets. I have created a question and answer page for that reason. Hope to see you at http://animalvoicefreelancerforpets.wordpress.com/. Be the most educated pet parent!
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