Many dog parents spend years struggling with a problem concerning doors: their dogs barge through them, in a hurry to get some fresh air on a walk, dragging the owner behind them.
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Some try to correct this behavior using very harsh methods.
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But there is absolutely no need to be harsh.
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The problem of barging through doors is not just about convenience, but also about safety. So, how to teach your dog to not barge through doors using humane methods?
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It’s simple! By explaining the rules to the dog. And by making him/her believe, that the owner is a source of all good things in life, capable of satisfying all the needs that a dog has.
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Say, your dog comes rushing through the door as soon as you open it. Great! Here’s what can help you:
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▫️Stand next to the door and put your hand on the door handle. Wait until your dog sits down. Don’t give him/her any commands or hints, just let your four-legged-friend make an independent decision.
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▫️Stay patient – this might take some time. Wait until the desirable action and make sure you let your dog know: if he/she sits, you might open the door.
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▫️When this happens, start slowly opening the door. If your dog stands right up – and that’s probably what’s going to happen – close the door and wait again.
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🐶Your goal is to give your dog an opportunity to understand: sit calmly – and you will get what you need. When your dog manages to sit calmly all the way while you’re opening the door fully, allow him/her to walk through it.
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▫️Practice a few times a day, and remember to not let your dog barge through an open door again in order to avoid self-reinforcement (according to canine logic, something that’s allowed once is always allowed).
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▫️Be persistent and consistent in this endeavor, and you will surely teach your dog to walk out the door politely and calmly.
When your dog is ready, try installing a pet door for your furry friend.
