Dog Training Article: Using Physical Punishments

By Jess Rollins
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Puppy/Dog-Proofing

Physical Punishment
(noises, sensations, tastes, pain, touch, "corrections")

There are rare occasions in which a punishment (correction) can be helpful, but physical punishments are risky and almost never necessary.

The correct way to use a physical punishment:

• The punishment follows the "crime" by less than 10 seconds.

• The punishment is harsh enough to stop the misbehavior in 2-3 trials (if too weak, it will serve to make your dog less sensitive to punishments in the future), but not traumatizing to your dog.

• The punishment is not attached to a person so that the dog doesn't simply misbehave when no one is looking or decide that people are unpleasant or scary to be around.

• Time is also spent teaching your dog something to replace the misbehavior (like "leave it" instead of "counter surfing" for food).

Some examples of punishments that might be effective (of course, this all depends on the dog's personality and how you apply the punishment!):

• Citronella collar use for a barking dog (that is not fearful).

• A "booby trap" on the counter which "goes off" when he tries to get up on the counter and also prevents him from getting the food there.

• Yelping loudly when a puppy nips to hard.

• An upside down carpet runner (bumpy) on the couch to discourage him from laying on it.

Some examples of the "wrong" way to use a physical punishment:

• Rubbing your dog's nose "in it"  - Generally happens way too long after the accident. It could make your dog afraid of you, or may cause your dog to hide to poop in the house.

• Yelling at a barking dog - This could be rewarding to the dog or unsettle him further.

• Jerking the leash when the dog pulls - Usually not strong enough of a punishment to deter pulling and the dog may end up needing harder jerks, which could end up damaging the neck and spine.

• Kneeing a dog that jumps up - May teach the dog that greeting people is unpleasant.

Puppy/Dog-Proofing

(Hint: very similar to child-proofing)

Close the bathroom door and prevent access to rooms which are out of your sight.

Secure trash bins and cabinets, keep food and cleaning items out of reach

Move plants and knick knacks out of reach

Bitter spray or move cords out of reach

Bitter spray wood furniture and upholstery (if needed)

Consider taking up area rugs until your dog is adequately chew and potty trained

Consider covering furniture with a blanket until chew and potty trained.

Check fencing for holes and gaps