The Best Dog Command for Consistent Results
Posted on Apr 20, 2008 under Behavior Modification, Dog Psychology, Training | No Comment
As a dog trainer and behaviorist, I would like to openly admit that my favorite at-home command is “whatever.” It’s beyond reason how quickly my dogs learned to respect the power of the word “whatever.”
If I say it with a slight 1980’s Valley-girl tone, they are happy to respond. I find it particularly beneficial to use this command when all five of them are at the door waiting to come in and I am attempting to limit the entry to two of them.
As they are lined up at the door, I may say “Zoe and Moby, stay! Olive and Najiv, ok.” As Zoe starts to move, I ask her politely if her name is Olive? She will sheepishly back off. Okay, so it doesn’t happen exactly like that.
As I select who may enter and who may not, I will – with much authority – release all of them with the respect-gaining “whatever” command. It always works! This is really taking dog training to another level, so I advise that you proceed with caution when incorporating this strict form of structure in your own home.
Do not attempt to use the “whatever” command without proper instruction and guidance from a professional dog trainer. Results may vary. =)