Dogs Generally Speaking

Let’s say you’ve just taught your dog a new command.  Has your dog generalized the behaviour yet?  Does your dog ‘sit’ at home, but now you’re at the parking lot or the off-leash park and he won’t do it?  Perhaps your dog knows ‘sit’ on the grass, but now he’s on the carpet and he’s not doing it?

Dogs need the opportunity to repeat behaviours in different settings.  That way they can learn to generalize the behaviour.  Ideally commands are taught first in an environment free from distractions and then practiced in alternative settings with gradually increasing distractions.  And yes this can also involve differing surfaces.

It is only then, (when you absolutely know he well & truly understands the command in a variety of environments) and you have provided ample practice that you should expect him to obey.  Anything less than this is unfair.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)