Did you know your dog likes to learn new tricks? Learning to FOCUS is a basic lesson all dogs can learn and once they have mastered the skill you'll be impressed!
You’ve witnessed the pandemonium. With the TV blaring in the background, cell phones ringing, and one of the kids practicing the trombone, no one is going to listen to you until you get their attention first. Teaching your dog to “focus” on you is the first step to training your dog. When your dog learns to FOCUS on you, then you can begin to introduce dog manners including waiting when you open a door or set down their dog bowl. I'll cover the advanced skills of WAIT and STAY in another post.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Before you start training, grab some training treats. The treats should be on the small size—one-bite size. Dog-training treats are small easy-to-digest treats that come in a variety of flavors. Some brands to check out are:
• Newman's Own Organics Chicken and Vegetable Dog Training Treats
• Zukes Mini Naturals Training Treats
• One-bite size kibble—use your dog's favorite dry dog food
I like to keep a dozen or so small training treats in a snack baggie in my pocket so they are always ready when I need them. Just make sure you don't put them in a container so they rattle in your pocket—this often gets your dog overly excited about the treat and not the lesson.
Click on the audio player link below to listen to How to Teach Your Dog to FOCUS:
> • > • > AUDIO LINK: Teaching Your Dog to FOCUS
Step-by-step written instructions for how to teach your dog to FOCUS below.
How to teach your dog to "FOCUS"
1) When your dog is in front of you, hold a small dog-training treat in your right hand and say “FOCUS.”
2) As soon as your dog’s eyes focus on your eyes for a few seconds, then reward your dog by giving him the treat and also give loads of verbal praise.
3) Try repeating this activity 3 or 4 times in one session. Add this exercise to your daily routine. Do it when a commercial comes on TV; try it before you place the dog food bowl on the floor; or use it before you open the door for a walk.
I am an adoption counselor for a local animal shelter. I am not a professional dog trainer. The skills in this article are meant to introduce you to the basics of dog obedience and encourage you to learn more skills in a professional dog obedience class. Be proactive and do not ignore aggressive dog behavior. Never leave an aggressive dog alone with children or unfamiliar adults. The best way to address issues of aggression is to work with a professional dog trainer.
