The holiday season brings lots of excitement and changes to your routine; however, you can still reinforce your dog’s manners by incorporating their commands into everyday life.
1. Practice sitting at every indoor doorway then outdoor doorways to prevent door dashing. By building a habit of sitting before exiting, it can save your dog’s life and make doorways less stressful.
2. If your dog is still training for guests manners, set him up for success during this hectic time and have them wait in their crate or in another room while your guests come in, then allow them to join as soon as everyone is settled.
3. Tire your dog out physically and mentally before guests arrive with a walk incorporating drill work (sit, down, stay, come) or structured play like sit and drop it every time you throw the ball.
4. Have your dog wait outside the kitchen while you are cooking. Most holiday foods are not good for dogs, who might jump at the chance to snatch up whatever falls. Waiting outside the kitchen solves that problem and keeps dog hair out of food.
5. Have your dog settle on his bed while everyone is opening presents. A knuckle bone, bully stick, or stuffed kong makes it easy for him to stay busy.
6. You can work on “leave it” around the Christmas tree, decorations, and presents.
7. Be aware of your energy! The holidays bring stress and excitement, and our dogs are very in tune with changes. Remember to stay balanced and live in the moment. This is one great gift our dogs offer us on a daily basis.
Kersti Nieto
Certified Dog Trainer
K9 Solutions LLC
http://www.nck9solutions.com
K9 Solutions 