“Essential house rules to cultivate polite dog behavior at home, ensuring harmony and mutual understanding between you and your canine companion.”
Are you ready to turn your home into a haven of polite dog behavior? Today, I’m laying out the golden rules I use!
1. Dining Decorum: Go to Your Place at Feeding Time 🍽️
Mealtime manners are a must. My dogs head to their designated spot during meals (Batman and Pig share a large dog cot). It not only curbs begging but also adds a touch of calmness and control while we’re eating.
2. Excitement Etiquette: You Can Be Excited, but Not Pushy
We love enthusiasm, but we love self control more. My dogs understand the fine line between being wiggly and demanding attention. Wiggles are great as long as they are mindful to let us move around the room (not get in front of us when we’re walking for safety reasons). This means waiting for us to acknowledge them to get their pets instead of demanding that attention NOW with whining, noses bumps, pawing, etc.
3. Stairway Stalwart: No Bumping Humans on Stairs 🚶♀️🚶♂️
Stairs can be tricky terrain, especially with an excited furball. They can go ahead of me or behind me on staircases but can’t fly past me. This is key to preventing accidental bumps or tumbles.
4. Doorway Diplomacy: Wait at Doors 🚪
Nothing says refined like a dog who understands the art of waiting. Whether it’s at doors or stairs, we teach the concept of patience in these moments.
5. Pre-Meal Protocol: Sit Before Eating 🍖
We’ve turned mealtime into a mini training session. We ask for a polite sit before putting down their bowl. It’s a simple yet powerful routine that reinforces good behavior.
6. Down Time: Relax When I Do 🛋️
We expect our dogs to match their energy levels with ours! This is the secret to a harmonious household. If we’re unwinding, our dogs need to relax too. It’s a shared moment of calm that is so enjoyable.
Master These, Master the Art of Enjoying Life with Your Dog!
Incorporating these house rules is key to having the perfect routine. It teaches your best friend to follow your flow each day instead of pushing their agenda on you!
What’s your #1 house rule for your dog? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you and your dog!
