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>Our different philosophies lead to some discrepancies in training practices. For
example:
> --My trainers completely prohibit a dog's licking a person -- for any reason. They
believe this leads to mouthiness and that it makes biting all that much more
>likely. I, on the other hand, believe that licking is one of the few ways a dog has of
expressing affection, and I encourage it in Duffy.
> --They completely ban a dog's sleeping on its owners' bed on the theory that this
encourages him to believe that he is our equal. We permit him to sleep on
>our bed with us since we believe it is consistent with wild pack behavior.
> --They TOTALLY ban treats as a reward, believing only in praise. I don't really see
the harm in a random treat reward, and I occasionally offer this when
>Duffy and I train on our own at home.
>I'm worried that our differing philosophies will lead to a problem in the future.
>Are my ideas way off-base? Are they compatible with a well-behaved, loving, loyal,
respectful canine companion?
All of the above practices may be appropriate depending on the dog's
temperament, intelligence and dominance level. They key, in my opinion, is that the owner
is in complete control at all times. For example, if the owner wants to be licked, fine.
But the instant the owner gives the command to stop licking, the dog must stop. In this
way the dog is able to express affection and yet is being subordinate. Ditto for sleeping
in the owners bed. Personally, I do not use treats for training or reinforcement except
for a very young puppy. However, if I give my adult dog a treat, she must earn it in some
way (obey a simple command, etc.)
Actually by allowing your dog the above "luxuries" (within the constraints
mentioned), the "removal" of these "treats" for unacceptable behavior
will be all the more felt.
Dogs are happiest while obeying. They need structure and prefer to be subordinate. They
can exhibit thoughtful, independent behavior. However, they are most happy being free
within the structure provided by their Alpha or Alphas.
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