Dog Listens When He Wants

pokerhermit

Just got a new dog and he's really smart and easy to train. He knows sit, stay and come, but he won't do any of that when he knows I'm trying to shut him in the kitchen (that's his sleeping area because he doesn't pee or chew anything in there). So I've just started pouring food into his bowl so he runs over to eat and I make my escape. Pretty sure this is not the right way to handle it. During the day, I sometimes take him in and out of the kitchen and reward him for listening, but late at night he knows it's not training. I could hold out a treat to make him come, sit & stay. And then while he's sitting there looking at me, I close the door in his face. It seems sort of like a punishment for Staying? I don't know. This is my first dog and I've only had him one month.

RedyreRotties

It is fine to toss a treat or two into the area and then gate your dog in. I would recommend you do it this way each time, he will soon learn to go in willingly for his cookie.

AmazingMutts

Are there any toys in there for the dog? What you really want to do is put him in a place that is comfortable and friendly to him. I would start with playing with him in the kitchen. Talk to him sweetly and offer yummy treats. When you're about ready to leave, give him a rubber toy that has peanut butter, chicken or frozen kibble in it. Once he settles down and starts chewing, you can quietly make your escape and he'll be happy as a clam. Chewing on a rubber toy can be very soothing to the dog. Also, having a delicious treat inside will keep him occupied, so he'll be more than happy to be alone.

Criosphynx

thats actually not a bad tactic, unless the dog wises up! LOL


Try to find som'thing high high value to him that he only gets when you leave, for just that purpose.

alfi

This! I use this with quite a success I must say to deal with Liza's Separation Anxiety...(I hope it is a good technique )

pokerhermit

I'll try that. He does have a Kong that I give to him every few days. I could make that his bedtime treat.

pokerhermit

There were a couple of toys, but not great quality because he chewed the stuffing out of them. He does have a Kong but he doesn't think it's fun to play with. Under the kitchen table is his second favourite place in the house. His favourite place is wherever I am.

fawkese1

ditto what everyone else said you were actually on the right track anyway... i would suggest a bit of peanut butter or something in the kong, and freezing it, that way he will have a long lasting treat...

BoxLove

I have to agree that shutting the door after putting him in a stay could cause some confusion in the future. Do you have a release word? I use OK with Billy. You could always release your dog BEFORE shutting the door. Just my thoughts though - I am not a trainer.

Mikey

That's a really good point Boxlove-otherwise she's sort of punishing the dog for staying by shutting the door. A release first is a good idea