In many homes, the door is a hub for a lot of activity-new smells, strangers, hugs, hellos,
mail slots and homecomings.
Here are a few tips to manage your dogs near the door, to discourage jumping or nipping or to warm up a dog that is a little reserved with new comers.
Step 1: Management
If your dog has a habit of running to the door and barking, the first thing to do is interrupt this fun routine. This power packed charge is full or excitement and arousal. Instead, tether them near the door (on a banister or in the next room) or perhaps block direct access to the front door
with a gate, if this is happening several times a day.
Step 2: Reward what YOU Want
One of the easiest things to do before you open the door
is to give your dog a job. Set up a clicker and a treat jar
near the door and play find it (toss treats). This sends the
dog away from the door and helps reward sniffing vs.
jumping. Be sure to use high value treats!
Step 3: Don't get Caught in the Obedience Trap!
Many times we make the mistake of asking the dog to
do a "basic" command like sit, down or stay when
people come to the house. Sounds simple enough.
but MANY dogs are not yet trained to be responsive to
the basics with that much stimulation. Work on
rewarding calm behavior first, then focus on Obedience.
Step 4: Luke warm and Unsure
If your dog is barking, growling or backing away from
the person that just came into your home. Do NOT have
anyone try to pet them. Instead, either remove your dog
from the situation or put them on leash, increase your
distance and reward tolerance (looking at the scary
person - good! - treat).
Play it safe and give your dogs alternative things to do at the door,
rather than be rowdy. If you have any questions, feel free
to shoot us an email at info@opbarks.com
