We've all heard the phrase, “New year, new you!”. It can be a way to embrace a fresh start. Have you ever found yourself thinking,  “I'm ready to start fresh, now what? Where do I begin?” The same can be true for those of us looking to improve our dogs’ behavior. If you feel like Sandra Bullock in a blindfold, please continue reading.

We often rattle off our dogs’ misbehaviors before ever sharing where our dogs shine.  Categorize the misbehaviors. Categorize the brilliant behaviors. Can you take a brilliant behavior and use it to replace a misbehavior?  Many misbehaviors can be improved by teaching an incompatible behavior.

For example, have a dog who pulls on walks? Have a dog who is easily distracted? Have a dog with little to no impulse control? Teach attention cues that your dog can respond to in any environment. Your dog can't pay attention to you and pull on walks, be distracted, and lack impulse control at the same time.

Have a dog who begs from the table? Have a dog who jumps up on people? Have a dog who bolts out the front door? Teach a place cue. Your dog can't lie on a mat and beg, jump up, or bolt out the door at the same time. (Unless your dog is a border collie. Then, he can simultaneously do all of the above while filing your taxes.)

When trying to change your dog's behavior, start small and keep it simple. Pick one behavior to work on at a time. Small changes can add up to big improvements! Remember, training makes a more perfect union between you and your dog. Let's get training! www.BehaviorUnited.com.