BE YOUR DOG’S NATURAL LEADER Does your family pooch have a training problem or a relationship problem?

I work with lots of dogs who will simply not sit, stay or walk to heel for their owners, particularly outside the home.

“He needs training,” is the common explanation.

Often I take the lead and the dog immediately walks to heel sitting and staying on command. Obviously this is NOT a training problem but a relationship issue.

The dog knows perfectly well what these commands mean he just doesn’t feel he has to obey his owner.

To your dog you and your family are his pack and in every pack there is a clear hierarchy.

You wouldn’t really expect a dog at the top of the pecking order to take much notice of those at the bottom. It just wouldn’t happen.

Pack animals take their orders from above not below.

If your dog understands the commands but only obeys when it suits him he believes himself to be above you in the pecking order. You cannot change his behaviour until you address this issue.

You may think you can live with your dog’s disobedience but what are you going to do when he chases a cat across a busy road? How are you going to stop him if he refuses to listen?

I’ve seen too many dogs killed in this way to be blasé.
 If you are not your dog’s leader you are a follower and no pack animal worthy of the name listens to a follower.

If you doubt the pack mentality of pet dogs just look what happens in a disaster area. Domestic dogs form packs very quickly. They don’t think about it it’s in their DNA.

It’s what gives them security.

When the leader moves they all move together. It’s non-negotiable. Those instructions come down from above.

If you want to learn how to be your dog’s natural leader enrol on our Weekend Master Class on June 10/11. It’s a fun way to learn an important skill.

n Full details at: vicbarlow.com/outdoor-masterclass or text me at 07569 056 0012.