A top dog trainer has revealed the three critical steps to take if you're at your wits' end with your dog's antics.
Will Atherton, a clinical canine behaviourist, confessed to encountering countless “miserable” pet owners throughout his career.
Regrettably, it is a truth that many individuals grow to resent their dogs when they misbehave. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Will has shared some key training tricks that might just turn things around for both dog and owner. In an informative TikTok video, he said: “If you're not happy with your dog and they're causing you more frustration than fulfilment, then don't worry. You are not alone – that is a very common thing.”
He then dives into his top recommendations for dog owners struggling to connect with their furry friends – so here's what you should do…
1. Crate training
First, he champions crate training – a strategy aimed at encouraging dogs to view their crate as a sanctuary. The approach is an incredibly popular one that instils discipline, ensures safety, and supports crucial aspects like toilet training.
Will advises: “If you crate train your dog, they'll absolutely love their crate and it will be one of their favourite places in the world. It solves 99% of problem behaviours in the home.”
2. Use a long lead
Using a long lead to walk your dog can bring numerous benefits for both the pet and its owner, enhancing physical, mental, and behavioural well-being.
A longer lead allows dogs greater freedom to roam and explore their surroundings, which is crucial for their mental stimulation as they love to sniff around and discover new things. This increased freedom also helps prevent them from pulling on the lead and feeling frustrated or confined.
For owners, it's advantageous too – it provides an opportunity to work on recall training while maintaining control during walks.
Dog trainer Will emphasised the importance of this practice: “If crate training solves the majority of problems in the home, proper loose lead walking solves the majority of problem behaviours out of the home.”
3. Be consistent
Thirdly, Will stressed the importance of consistency in dog training. It's an ongoing process that requires you to put the effort in and maintain your boundaries – even when you're feeling worn out.
Consistency enables dogs to understand and learn desired behaviours more effectively – as they need clear communication and repetition to grasp rules and expectations.
By doing this, you can also strengthen the trust between yourself and your pooch.
Will elaborated on the significance of being a reliable figure for your dog. He added: “The most important thing you can provide for your dog is to be their calm, consistent canine leader.”
