A correction is a form of negative reinforcement. It is something that happens to the animal which that animal wishes to avoid. It is important that a correction is administered immediately (within seconds) after the dog misbehaves. Without this timing, the correction will not be effective.

The severity of the correction should fit the "crime". Knowing the personality of your dog is helpful in determining the extent of the correction. Some dogs may require more physical corrections while others only require verbal reprimands. Be sure to balance out the corrections with positive praise.

It is important to let the dog know when he is right as well as when he is wrong. Some behaviors are better off ignored than trying to correct them. Many of these lesser problems will extinguish themselves.

Some types of correction are the following:

• A loud and strong negative voice tone using the same word each time such as "No". Be sure not to inadvertently pet the dog when giving it a reprimand.
• Using a rolled up newspaper with one swift swat to correct the dog for inappropriate behavior such as getting on furniture or jumping up. This can also make the dogs somewhat fearful of paper. A simple push with your knee for jumping up or walking into you when learning to leash train.
• Holding the muzzle closed with your hand and saying "No" at the same time if the dog is biting. This is much easier to accomplish when a puppy.
• Remember that correcting your dog is a personal preference issue. What feels comfortable to one dog owner may not for another. It is much easier to correct your dog as a puppy than when an adult.
• Decide what the rules are for the dog and stick to it with consistency.

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Category:

• Aggression

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