{"id":3225,"date":"2021-01-28T16:21:30","date_gmt":"2021-01-28T21:21:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/companyofanimals.us\/?p=3225"},"modified":"2023-11-20T11:41:26","modified_gmt":"2023-11-20T16:41:26","slug":"dog-impulse-control","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/companyofanimals.com\/au\/dog-impulse-control\/","title":{"rendered":"Dog Impulse control"},"content":{"rendered":"

What Is Dog Impulse Control?<\/b><\/h1>\n

Dog impulse control is effectively a way of teaching your puppy that calm behaviour results in them getting what they want, be it treats, toys or your attention. Building impulse control takes time and patience but it can also be a really fun way to spend time and bond with your puppy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Impulse control <\/span>dog training<\/span> can be more challenging for some dogs than others and so it\u2019s important that the training is mixed with plenty of uninhibited fun too. A good formula is to balance every minute of impulse control games <\/span>for dogs<\/span> with five minutes of expressive play. This way, the training isn\u2019t solely about self-containment. By mixing things up, your dog will stay engaged with you for longer and you can make sure that the calm, focused behaviour you are looking for actually keeps the fun and rewards coming!<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Here are some steps and tips on how to teach puppy impulse control:<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Start impulse control dog training early:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
    \n
  • Impulse control training should begin as early as possible, ideally when your puppy is a few months old. Puppies are more receptive to learning during their early developmental stages.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>The Puppy Training Line offers a 5m and 10m option, allowing you to train your pup while giving them room to explore safely.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

    Basic Obedience Training:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
      \n
    • Before you can work on impulse control, your puppy should have a basic understanding of commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” These commands provide the foundation for impulse control exercises.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Use Positive Reinforcement:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
        \n
      • Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train a puppy. Use treats, praise, and affection to reward your puppy for good behaviour. This motivates them to repeat the desired actions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Teach “Leave It”:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
          \n
        • The “leave it” command is essential for impulse control. Start by holding a treat in your closed hand and letting your puppy sniff it. When they stop trying to get the treat, say “leave it” and reward them with a different treat from your other hand. Gradually increase the difficulty by using more tempting items.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>Pair the “leave it” command with Coachi’s Two-Tone Whistle for effective communication during training.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

          Practise “Stay”:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
            \n
          • Teaching your puppy to stay is another valuable exercise for impulse control. Start with short durations and gradually increase the time your puppy needs to stay in place. Reward them when they successfully stay in the designated spot.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>Use Coachi’s Professional Whistle to provide clear signals during “stay” training sessions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

            Gradual Challenges:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
              \n
            • As your puppy becomes more proficient at “leave it” and “stay,” introduce more challenging situations. For example, practice “leave it” with toys or food on the ground and “stay” with distractions like other dogs or people around.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>The<\/span><\/i> Chase & Treat toy adds an element of challenge to training, encouraging your pup to focus.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

              Play Impulse Control Games For Dogs:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
                \n
              • Incorporate impulse control into games. For example, during fetch, make your puppy sit and wait before throwing the ball. This teaches them to control their excitement and wait for your command.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Impulse Control During Feeding:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
                  \n
                • Use mealtime as an opportunity to practise impulse control. Make your puppy sit and wait before you put their food bowl down. Only allow them to eat when you give the command.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>Teach your pup to signal when they need to go outside with Coachi’s Toilet Training Bells.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

                  Consistency:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
                    \n
                  • Consistency is key in teaching impulse control. Use the same commands and rewards consistently, and ensure all family members are on the same page with training.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    Patience:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
                      \n
                    • Be patient and understanding of your puppy’s learning process. Puppies may make mistakes, but it’s essential to remain calm and consistent in your training efforts.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      Gradual Progression:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
                        \n
                      • As your puppy becomes more skilled at impulse control, continue to challenge them with increasingly difficult scenarios. This helps them generalise the behaviour to various situations.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        Our Recommendation: <\/i><\/b>Use Coachi’s Target Stick to refine your pup’s impulse control in specific training exercises.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

                        Seek Professional Help:<\/strong><\/h3>\n