YNP #068: The Power of Practice

"Practice makes perfect."  We all know that one.  Well, it's just as true for our dogs.  When we teach our dogs how to sit we know to start at step one and work them up to a reliable sit in any situation.  When we want to change a behavior (like barking, digging, leash walking, or counter surfing) it's no different. We don't usually think of it as something we have to intentionally practice but this is exactly what's we need to do. We think about how we want the behavior to change in the moment and try to work there when really we have to back up a whole bunch of steps and practice in easier more controllable situations. It's like trying to teach someone algebra, when they don't know how to add and substract.  Our dogs are no different. That's why it's the power of practice that will teach our dogs how we want them to behave. In this episode I talk about:* The difference between changing a behavior and just reacting to it. * What I mean by intentional practice.* When management is appropriate.* How to set up easy situations to practice for the hard ones.* Why it's important to set up controlled situations. * Why it's important to start at step one and why we always want to start at step 8.Press play and enjoy!Other resources mentioned and related to this episode:YNP #047: How to Handle a Reactive Dog on a LeashYNP #050: The 3 Most Common Leash Training QuestionsYNP #066: How to Stop a Dog From Barking (Part 1)YNP #067: How to Stop a Dog From Barking (Part 2)YOUR Perfect Puppy: 4-week online training course for you and your new puppy.