Are you ready to turn your home into a haven of polite dog behavior? Today, I’m laying out the golden rules I use!
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.
When dogs know where to go during meals, everyone enjoys dinner more. You can teach this by showing your dog their spot and giving treats when they stay there. Start with short times and make it longer as they learn.
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, nose bumps, pawing, etc.
Your dog can be happy to see you without being rude about it! When your dog waits nicely for attention instead of pawing or pushing, they learn good manners. Just ignore the pushy behavior and give lots of love when they’re calm.
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.
This rule keeps everyone safe! A dog rushing on stairs can cause falls and injuries. Practice going up and down stairs calmly with your dog, using treats to reward good behavior.
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.
This house rule stops your dog from running out open doors. It’s easy to teach – just make your dog sit before going through any door. Soon they’ll wait automatically, making coming and going much safer.
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.
This small act of waiting builds your dog’s patience. It also reminds them that you’re in charge of food, which helps with other training too.
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.
When you’re relaxing, your dog should relax too. This makes home life peaceful. You can teach this by rewarding your dog whenever they choose to lie down while you’re sitting quietly.
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!
Dogs are happier when they know what you expect from them. Good house rules don’t mean being mean – they just set clear boundaries so everyone knows how to behave.
What’s your #1 house rule for your dog? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you and your dog!
Having a well-behaved dog doesn’t happen by accident. It takes clear rules, consistent training, and the right guidance to create the peaceful home you deserve.
If you’re struggling with any of these house rules or dealing with other behavior challenges, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team has helped thousands of dog owners just like you create calm, happy households where both humans and dogs thrive.
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What’s your #1 house rule for your dog? Share in the comments below!
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