The words we choose to use reflect our attitudes which then predict our behavior. For instance, when someone describes their pets as “spoiled”, this person is likely to reinforce unwanted behaviors and not reinforce desired behaviors. This person is likely to give their dog a biscuit for pestering them during a work call.  But when their dog walks with slack in the leash, or sits when approached by a friendly stranger, no biscuit is given. 

By comparison, if someone describes their pets as “well cared for”, this person is likely to reinforce desired behaviors, interrupt and redirect unwanted behaviors. This person has a strong bond, or reinforcement history, with their pet. These pets understand behavior expectations and are generally well-mannered. 

The words we use set the tone for our behavior. Sometimes we use the same word in different tones to take on different meanings. Your dog's name is a great example of  this.  When you say your dog’s name in an upbeat tone, you’re likely to give your dog scritches and fawn all over your dog when she looks at you.  Your dog associates her name with "Yay, good things!" When you say your dog’s name in a menacing tone, you’re likely to further scold your dog when she looks at you. This leads your dog to believe that her name means "No no, bad dog!" 

Sure, dogs can differentiate the tones and their meanings. However, responding to her name becomes a gamble.  Sometimes it means good things happen, and sometimes it means bad things happen. When this is the case, the odds are not in your favor when you say your dog’s name outside. Your dog is more likely to ignore you and stay engaged with the distraction. 

We should use our dog’s name as we use our emergency recall word. We should save it for times when we can 100% reward name response with a game of tug or a stream of treats. If you need your dog’s attention in a casual scenario, use one of the many nicknames you’ve given your dog. Think of your dog’s real name as a contractual agreement where the dog is always rewarded for immediately responding to his name. 

How far can you take this name recognition? Can your dog respond to his name while he's eating, chasing a toy, hears knocking on the door, or sees another dog outside?  If your dog can respond to his name no matter the distraction, you hold the keys to the kingdom! Want to learn how to train that? Let me show you how to teach your dog to be on point. 

Behavior United is proud to share Best Behavior with you. Best Behavior is a community with live and on-demand coaching.  Best Behavior is a new subscription service that shows you how to teach your dog that his/her best choice is to listen to you, even with distractions. Easy peasy for $30 per month, or sign up for three months and save $15! Think of how distraction-proof your dog can be after three months, practicing for two to ten minutes a day! Click here for more details.