SELF CONTROL SITS -

to make it easier, I am referring to your dog as a "him" but obviously it applies to all our dogs.

 

This task is designed to help your dog gain some inner self control.  Instead of you asking the dog to sit every time.  Allow him to work it out that if he does, he will get a reward.

 

First arm yourself with a selection of juicy rewards – this is part of his dinner.  - we suggest that you try this exercise just before you would normally feed your dog as this will get his attention.

 

Place all the treats into a sealed container which you can pick up and easily move without dropping it all over the floor. Have another container next door to this one, into which you are putting the treats he did not get.

 

Put the box onto a table/chair away from your dog. - I start this exercise in the kitchen and use the worktops to store the box to begin with.  At home you can have your dog off lead but shut the doors so he cannot be easily distracted. You add the distractions afterwards.

Your dog should be a small distance away from the treats and you should be in between them.  Show your dog a reward and ask him to sit. 

As soon as he sits, reward him with a treat that you have reached for from the box. 

If he moves – SHOW HIM WHAT HE LOST OUT AND PUT IT BACK INTO THE OTHER CONTAINER.

Repeat until you can leave your dog in the sit and walk across the floor to reach for a treat and return to your dog without him moving.

If your dog moves, just remind him what he lost out and replace the treat into the container again. 

Ask him to sit and repeat the exercise. DO NOT NAG HIM TO SIT – WAIT FOR HIM TO DECIDE TO DO SO.

 

Gradually ask the dog to increase the length of time he sits and waits for the treat.

Every now and then reward for a quick and correct sit to keep him on his toes.

Then start the exercise again with the doors open and distractions.

 

DO NOT TELL YOUR DOG OFF – JUST SHOW HIM WHAT HE MISSED AND REPEAT THE EXERCISE.

ALWAYS END THE SESSION ON A GOOD NOTE.

IF YOUR DOG IS CONFUSED, GO BACK TO THE BEGINNING AND START AGAIN BUT DO NOT TELL HIM TO SIT, ALTHOUGH YOU MAY LIKE TO RATTLE THE BOX TO GET THEIR ATTENTION.

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