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How to Foster Confidence and Self-Esteem in Your Dog.

by Gabriel Riesco | Sep 28, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, For Dog Trainers, Mindfulness & Psychology with Dogs

How to Foster Confidence and Self-Esteem in Your Dog.

According to Learning Theories, Positive Reinforcement is widely recognized as the best and, in fact, the only effective way to impart skills and build self-confidence. However, there are two subtle nuances and flaws within this statement that deserve your attention:

1. Learning skills are distinct from behavioral skills.

2. Self-esteem and resilience also develop when faced with failure and adversity, not solely in times of success.

It is crucial to emphasize that Positive Reinforcement remains an essential tool for nurturing confidence and self-esteem in your dog. Positive Reinforcement stands as the primary method for teaching dogs new tasks or skills, as it hinges on motivation and rewards. Yet, it is not the sole element at play and for many dogs it is not enough.

Let’s talk about those two very important aspects that you should consider to build self esteem in your dog:

1. Learning Skills vs. Behavioral Skills

Boundaries, rules, and discipline fall under the realm of social behavior and coping mechanisms rather than learning theory methodologies. These are two distinct fields. To illustrate, let me share an example:

Years ago, during my tenure as a jazz musician, I began teaching music to troubled kids in the South Bronx Projects. My teaching approach was rooted in positive reinforcement, yielding fantastic results. Why? Because there were two other staff members responsible for discipline; they adeptly set boundaries and rules, maintaining clarity with the children. My role revolved around the enjoyable task of music instruction, while theirs involved handling conflict and behavioral issues. It’s evident that these roles differ significantly.

I want to stress that, in behavioral training, there is no requirement for physical corrections or the use of tools like prong collars, e-collars, or choke chains. While these tools might have their place when used by knowledgeable trainers, they do not align with my training philosophy and are not, in my opinion and experience, necessary.

2. Self-Esteem and Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Teaching your dog to navigate through distressing situations contributes not only to enhanced self-esteem and resilience but also to self-control, a vital skill in behavioral training. Confronting unfamiliar or uncomfortable circumstances and mastering them cultivates resilience and confidence. This capability enables your dog to respond appropriately and independently when confronted with conflicts. The goal is to teach your dog the ability to cope and react autonomously when conflict arises. Which is what Behavior Training exercises are about.

Relying solely on Positive Reinforcement may lead to a constant need for redirection and the offering of alternative behaviors.

In contrast, behavioral training exposes your dog to stressful situations while maintaining a manageable level of discomfort (under threshold), allowing your dog to learn coping skills, independent thinking, and the power of true choice. This fosters self-control and the development of social skills not impulse control and obedience performance skills like “sit”, “down”, “wait”, “place”, etc

Consider the following example:

If another dog barks and lunges at my dog, my objective in Behavioral Training is not to command my dog to “sit” and “wait”. Instead, my aim is to equip my dog with the skill to control his reactions. It becomes his choice to either ignore the dog, attempt to facilitate socialization, or move away. These choices come from my dog’s self-control, as opposed to my direct commands like “sit,” “wait,” or “leave it.” The ability to control his responses and remain in the “green zone” characterizes Behavioral Training. Conversely, instructing my dog to “sit,” “stay,” or “leave it” constitutes Obedience Training, focusing on conditioned learning from external cues.

Let’s take another example: jumping at guests.

Dogs jumping results from overexcitement and human reinforcement. In Behavioral Training, the goal is to teach your dog to manage his excitement during guest interactions, preventing jumping from occurring. This avoids the need for correction or redirection. Dogs naturally greet by sniffing and investigating, not by jumping. In Behavior Training we’ll teach the dog to greet guests without jumping.

In Obedience Training, the objective is to condition your dog to “sit” and “wait” for guests. The issue with Obedience Training arises when dogs lack self-regulation, potentially breaking the “stay” command or barking while in the “place” position. The fundamental problem with this approach is that your dog is “waiting”. At some point you have to release him/her. When you do, then they usually jump on your guests. The other problem is that a lot of high energy dogs, who are usually the jumpers, will bark excessively while waiting in their “Place position”. Teaching your dog to “wait” on Place is not the same as teaching your dog to greet your guests without jumping.

Behavioral Training exercises and methods are designed to teach your dog self regulation and independent thinking. This eventually translates into social skills and coping skills which will enhance self esteem and self confidence. Obedience Training is designed to condition your dog to obey your cues on command with positive reinforcement. Very different outcomes and methodolgies.

Trends and misleading mantras:

Now, let’s address a recent trend promoting the idea that confidence and self-esteem can only be nurtured through positive reinforcement, banning the use of the word “No,” and cautioning against establishing boundaries.

This mantra goes as follows: “Never tell your dog ‘don’t do that’; instead, teach them what to do.“

As with any decision in life, there are trade-offs to consider. To adhere to this mantra, you must navigate a complex labyrinth of environmental control until your dog reaches a state of readiness. This complexity arises due to a lack of clarity regarding boundaries.

In my experience, this mantra has led many dog parents to frustration, failure, and considerable distress for extended periods of time. It does not apply universally to all dogs. I am well aware of this because I find myself busier than ever, inheriting dogs that have gone through programs and protocols failing to establish clear and direct boundaries.

There are methods to impart clear boundaries and rules without resorting to force, corrections, or dominance-based Alpha theories. This reflects my vision and what I have successfully accomplished over the past 13 years designing exercises and routines to teach dogs self control through Behavioral Training.

How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Dog?

by Gabriel Riesco | Aug 26, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, Fun Doggy Wisdom, Puppy Training

Potty training is one of the first priorities when you first get a dog. Just like any other training, it requires patience, consistency, and understanding. While every dog is different and here’s no one-size-fits-all answer there are several aspects that can affect the time.

Here are some of them:

Breed and Age: The breed and age of the dog play a significant role. Puppies have smaller bladders and shorter attention spans, so they may need more frequent potty breaks. Larger breeds might take a little longer to fully grasp the concept.

Consistency: Consistency in training methods and schedule is key. Dogs thrive on routine, so sticking to a consistent feeding and potty schedule can speed up the training process.

Previous Training: If the dog has had any prior training or exposure to potty training, it might adapt more quickly. Rescue dogs or those transitioning from a different environment may take some extra time.

Individual Temperament: Just like humans, dogs have unique personalities. Some dogs are quick learners, while others might take a bit more time to catch on. Being patient and adapting your training approach to your dog’s personality can make a big difference.

Owner’s Commitment: How committed you are to the training process matters. Especially at the beginning while you are setting up routines. If you’re dedicated and consistent, your dog is likely to learn faster. On the other hand, inconsistent training can confuse your dog and prolong the process.

Positive Reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, can encourage your dog to associate proper potty behavior with rewards. This can speed up the learning process significantly.

Timeline Expectations:

Potty training can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Some dogs can get it in a few days. Here’s a general outline of what you might expect:

First Few Weeks: During the initial weeks, focus on establishing a routine. Take your dog out frequently, especially after crate time, meals, naps, and playtime. Be patient and use positive reinforcement when your dog eliminates outside.

First Month: By the end of the first month, many dogs will have a good grasp of the concept, but accidents can still happen. Continue with consistent training and gradually extend the time between potty breaks.

Months 2-4: As your dog becomes more familiar with the routine, accidents should become less frequent. However, some dogs might still have occasional slip-ups, especially in new environments.

Months 4 and Beyond: By this point, most dogs should be reliably potty trained. Keep in mind that younger puppies might take a bit longer to fully control their bladder.

Tips for Successful Potty Training:

Establish a Routine: Set a regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks.

Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog, especially during the initial stages of training, to prevent accidents indoors. Don’t let your puppy wonder freely around the house without constant supervision, this is when they make mistakes.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for successful outdoor potty breaks to reinforce good behavior.

Be Patient: Stay calm and patient throughout the process. Punishing accidents can hinder progress.

Clean Accidents Properly: Use enzymatic cleaners to thoroughly clean any indoor accidents, as regular cleaners might not remove the odor completely.

Potty training is all about having a good schedule. The timeline can be very different depending on your dog. Remember that each dog is unique. Effective housetraining depends entirely on your ability to predict when your puppy needs to eliminate so you can direct him/her to an appropriate toilet area.

Is Crate Training Necessary?

by Gabriel Riesco | Jul 30, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, Puppy Training

Crate training is a controversial topic among dog parents, with some believing it to be essential for their pet’s safety and well-being, while others see it as cruel and unnecessary. So, is crate training necessary? Let’s discuss it.

What is crate training?

Crate training involves using a crate or confined area as a safe and secure place for a dog to rest, sleep, and eat. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The aim is to teach the dog to view the crate as their den.

Dogs are den animals so it is natural to them to relax and rest in a reduced space. I can see how from a human perspective crate training can be viewed as un- natural, but it’s really not. What’s un natural to them is to be left alone, since they are pack-social oriented animals. So we need to teach them gradually and slowly. Crate training sometimes can help in this process. Another way of looking at it is to think of bears. Bears hibernate for months at a time in a very small area. Other animals might do similar things that we humans might view as unbearable or cruel, but that’s their nature.

Is crate training necessary?

Whether or not crate training is necessary depends your situation and on your dog. For example, a dog that spends a lot of time alone in the house may benefit from having a safe and secure place to rest, while a dog that is never left alone may not need a crate. Note that dogs that are never left alone can develop separation anxiety. Which is not a good problem to have. Some dogs might have develop a fearful/anxious association with the crate. In this case the crate might not be the best option.

However crate training can make the process of potty training much faster and easier, since it’s easier to avoid accidents without having to constantly supervise your puppy.

In some cases, crate training may be essential for a dog’s safety and well-being. For example, if a dog is destructive when left alone, they may be at risk of harming themselves or damaging the home. A crate can provide a safe and secure environment while preventing destructive behavior.

Additionally, some dogs may benefit from a crate during travel or when staying in a boarding facility. Being comfortable in a crate can reduce stress and anxiety in unfamiliar situations.

Why do people crate train their dogs?

There are several reasons to crate train your dog. These include:

Potty training.The crate can be very helpful to teach your dog two things: a. to avoid 90% of accidents without constant supervision and b. to hold the bladder. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so using a crate can help setting up a schedule where accidents can be easily avoided.
Safety: A crate can keep a dog safe from potential hazards, such as electrical cords, toxic substances, or other pets in the home.
Housetraining: A crate can keep your house safe from destructive behaviors. Puppies do not know the difference between a expensive furniture or objects and chew toys.
Travel: A crate can be a convenient and safe way to transport a dog. Sometimes it’s actually mandatory. if your dog is not crate trained your dog will have a hard time traveling in a crate or carrier.
Separation anxiety: For some dogs, a crate can provide a sense of security and comfort when left alone.
Vet visits or grooming. If your dog gets sick and needs to stay over night, most likely the vet is going to use a crate. Groomers very often use crates while the dogs wait for their owners to pick them up.

Havng said this, crate training should never be used as a punishment or as a way to confine a dog for extended periods. Dogs are social animals and need interaction and exercise to stay healthy and happy.

How to crate train a dog?

If you decide to crate train your dog, it’s essential to do so in a positive and gentle way. Here are some tips:

Introduce the crate gradually: Start by leaving the crate door open and placing treats or toys inside to encourage your dog to explore.
Make the crate comfortable: Add a soft bed or blanket to make the crate inviting.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they enter the crate voluntarily.
Start with short periods: Initially, leave your dog in the crate for short periods while you’re at home, gradually increasing the time as they become comfortable.
Never force your dog into the crate: If your dog seems reluctant to enter the crate, don’t force them. Instead, try using treats or toys to encourage them.

In summary, crate training can be beneficial for some dogs in certain situations. However, it’s not necessary for every dog, and it’s crucial to use a mindful approach when introducing a crate. Remember, a crate should be a safe and secure place for your dog, not a form of punishment or confinement.

Service Dog Training.

by Gabriel Riesco | Jul 23, 2023 | Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning

Service dogs play a crucial role in the lives of individuals with disabilities, providing assistance with a wide range of tasks and helping to increase independence and quality of life. Training a service dog requires a significant time and commitment, but the rewards of having a well-trained service dog can be immeasurable. In this post, I’ll take a look at the process of training a service dog, including what’s involved, how to get started, and what to expect along the way.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that service dogs are not pets. They are highly trained working animals that are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities. This means that the training process is much more intense and focused than it is for a pet dog. It also important to note that service dog might not be allowed to do certain things that pet dogs would normally do.

To begin the process of training a service dog, you’ll need to find a reputable service dog training program. There are many programs available, and it’s important to do your research to find one that is accredited and has a good track record. Some things to consider when choosing a program include the length of the program, the type of training provided, and the experience and expertise of the trainers.

Once you’ve chosen a program, the next step is to prepare your dog for training. This typically involves providing basic obedience training and socialization, as well as working on any specific skills or behaviors that your dog will need to perform as a service dog. This may include tasks like assisting with mobility, retrieving items, or providing emotional support.

Once your dog is ready to begin formal service dog training, the program will typically involve a combination of in-home and group training sessions. In these sessions, your dog will learn to perform a variety of tasks and behaviors that are specific to your needs as an individual with a disability. This may include things like helping you navigate through crowded areas, retrieving items, or providing emotional support during times of stress.

Throughout the training process, it’s important to be patient and consistent with your dog. Training a service dog requires a significant time and commitment, but the rewards of having a well-trained service dog can be immeasurable. With the right training and support, your service dog can become a valuable and integral part of your daily life, helping you to live with greater independence and freedom.

How Can I Discourage and Stop My Puppy From Barking Excessively

by Gabriel Riesco | Jun 9, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, For Dog Trainers, Puppy Training

Puppies are a lot of fun, but when fun turns into too much stimulation, they can also be quite vocal. Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, but excessive barking when it gets out of control is not. It can also become a nuisance and cause disturbance to both you and your neighbors. Fortunately, there are ways to discourage your puppy from barking excessively.

The first step to addressing excessive barking is to understand why your puppy is barking in the first place. There are different reasons why your puppy might be barking excessively. Here’s a list of the most common ones:

1. Overexcitement and/or overstimulation. This could be triggered by you coming home, you getting their leash, playing with too much excitement or too much stimuli overload in the environment. This is usually caused by the lack of self control. This barking will often be with a wagging tail, happy mood, spin in circles, some nipping and running to play chase, ears perked and head held higher.

2, Attention barking (usually reinforced unconsciously by humans). This barking is usually high pitch, annoying and relentless. Their tails may be straight or wagging, with their ears down/natural or at attention. Be careful with this behavior. If your dog is barking to get your attention or treats and they get what they want when they bark, you’ll be reinforcing and encouraging the excessive barking. Be aware that negative attention it’s still attention and will reinforce the barking.

3. Triggered by a noise or sight (ex: a dog passing by your house or the mail man coming in). This type of barking usually triggers an automatic emotional response in your dog that spirals up into an uncontrolled barking.

4. Territorial barking (guarding or protecting). Your dog feels the need to protect your house. These barks will usually be deeper and may have a growl associated with them. They will also be fairly continuous and incessant. With territorial barking the body posture is usually leaning forward, tail is up and wagging, ears and and eyes are up and alert. It could be followed by a bite. This may happen at a later puppy stage 4 months and older.

5. Fear barking. Insecure/fearful dogs will show body language leaning backwards and backing up while their barking. Tail might be between the legs and tense, hackles raised, and low head posture. Some insecure/fearful dogs might bite and lunge when you turn your back on them and move away.

Once you have identified the underlying cause of your puppy’s barking, you can start working on a solution to address the behavior:

Socialize your puppy

Puppies that are not properly socialized may become anxious or fearful in new situations, leading to excessive barking. Socializing your puppy from an early age can help him become more comfortable in different environments and around new people and animals. Take your puppy for walks in different places, introduce him slowly to new people and dogs, and expose him gradually to various sights and sounds.

2. Provide structured play and start teaching your puppy self control.

Puppies that have excess energy and no self regulation may bark excessively as a way to release their pent-up energy. Providing structure play and teaching self control exercises will keep your puppy calm and content, reducing the likelihood of excessive barking. Take your puppy for exposure walks, play structured games where they slowly learn boundaries, and socialize them with well behaved older dogs that will teach them how to calm down.

3. Teach your puppy the “quiet” command

Teaching your puppy a “quiet” command will teach him to understand when it’s time to stop barking. Start by saying “quiet” or “enough” in a firm but calm voice when your puppy barks excessively.

4. Learn Behavior Training

Behavior Training is a powerful tool for training puppies. Rather than punishing your puppy for excessive barking, focus on self control exercises and activities. Behavior Training is NOT about letting your dog misbehave and then correct, punish or redirect that behavior with treats. It’s about not letting the behavior to happen in first place when possible. The way to do it is to keep your dog in a sound state of mind or “green zone”. Or bringing him/her back to “green zone” if he/she is already out of control. This will allow your dog to get better at social skills and coping skills in different environments

Excessive barking can be a frustrating behavior to deal with, but with knowledge and consistency, you can help your puppy learn to bark less or stop barking . Understanding the underlying reason for your puppy’s barking, providing structured exercise, teaching the “quiet” command, and using Behavior Training will effective discourage and stop excessive barking.

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