How to Think Like a Dog

Often the best way to train a dog is to get inside the mind of a dog. To best do this, learn to think like a dog. Dogs may be domesticated, but much of their behavior is still ruled by instinct. Getting into the mind of a dog can help to curb any behavior problems and prevent new ones from forming.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand the pack mentality and the roles that different dogs play within the pack. Dogs often think of their human masters as part of their pack. Within any pack of dogs, there will be an alpha dog that all the others look to for direction. By playing the alpha dog leadership role, you can get your dog to do what you wish.

2. Remember the basest instinct in the mind of the dog, which is having enough food and having the status to get food without fighting for it. One of the best ways to train a dog to think of you in the alpha role is to serve the dog after the humans eat. This mimics the pack leader eating first and the dogs with lesser status eating what is left. Serve enough so that multiple dogs will not have to fight for food and status, resulting in an adversarial relationship.

3. Let dogs have time to play. Dogs, like people, need recreation time to be happy. Recreation activities will vary with the size of the dog, but playing ball or fetch with a dog will likely satisfy its need to play. They will be more apt to listen to you and trust your judgment if you are mindful of this basic need. Watch your dog for signs that he is in a playful mood. This will usually include the play stance, which is the front paws stretched out on the ground and the hind legs straight.

4. Be consistent in your training. Dogs are much like children in many respects, and they need consistent reinforcement of the rules. The enforcement of rules also enforces your alpha dog status.