Owners teach dogs many things to help them integrate into social life. For example, not to urinate or defecate everywhere, not to eat random things, etc. However, dogs’ thought patterns are different from humans. Many so-called mistakes are actually instinctive behaviors and might just be their way of socializing. So what to do when dogs make mistakes? How to train dogs when they make mistakes? We should first analyze the reasons, then decide how to correct the behavior based on the situation, or whether to punish them. Believe me, punishment isn’t only about scolding or hitting; some management and restriction methods can better help you raise an obedient dog.

① When you discover your dog made a mistake that directly affects your normal life, such as tearing the house, aggressive behavior like biting or pouncing, or excessive food guarding, you must correct it immediately and catch the dog in the act. Timing is crucial; we must promptly find and educate the dog "at the crime scene" to suppress excessive development of this behavior. Using a positive training philosophy, reward correct behavior and ignore wrong behavior—do it once correctly, with clear reward and punishment.

② Never ever struggle with your dog, because a dog’s social thinking is similar to primitive society: if the subordinate makes mistakes, the leader punishes with hitting or scolding. So the subordinate will act worse next time. Many owners find that after beating, their dog’s behavior becomes even worse than before. This is why we say encourage correct behavior and ignore wrong behavior. In the dog’s mind, hitting and scolding are a form of attention, and attention is exactly what dogs want most from their owners. So training with hitting or scolding as punishment may lead to worsening bad behavior.

Sometimes we don’t need to do much. When the dog gets excited, ignore it; only respond when it is quiet. Reward it for calm behavior and ignore incorrect behavior.

Finally, remember, always be patient.