29.1 -- BEHAVIOR: Digging in the Yard, Chasing --Session One Digging: Before you begin: It is important to first understand why your dog is digging. Many dogs, such as terriers, were bred to flush out prey, and digging is very innate to them. Other dogs may be digging to find a cool spot to lie down, or simply because they are bored. By first providing your dog with the following, your dog may no longer have the desire to dig.
1.A cool shaded area to lie down in, with plenty of water.
2. An alternate activity, such as a favorite toy.
3. Plenty of play, exercise and attention.
4.A yard that is free from prey or rodents he may be trying to flush out.
Stop digging using the Remote Collar:
1. Choose a stimulation that is 1 level higher than your dog’s normal training level.
2. Place the collar on your dog, and then wait at least 10 minutes before placing him in the yard. Make sure no other people or animals are in the yard, as you do not want your dog to associate the stimulation with anything other than the behavior of digging.You should not attempt this exercise without the dog securely fenced or contained.
3. From a window or area where the dog cannot see you, wait until the dog begins to dig.
4.While your dog is digging, press your stimulation button and release when he stops digging. Only stimulate your dog while he is in the act of digging, and do not say anything to your dog.
5. If your dog ignores the stimulation, you will need to increase your stimulation level by 1.
6. Continue to watch your dog, as he may choose another area to dig.
7. Do not allow your dog to be in the yard unsupervised until he has completely stopped digging. Do not stimulate your dog until he begins to dig. Press the stimulation button and release when dog stops digging. Watch to see if your dog chooses another area to dig. |