by Andy Sands, Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant
It’s Training Tuesday once again, and we are on the tail end of the series “The Year of the Dog” in which we are discussing the 10 Resolutions for Rover. We have covered 7 resolutions so far, and today we will explore resolutions 8 and 9.
Resolution #8: Resolve Chewing Problems.
Many people complain about their dog chewing on all of the wrong things. We have some responsibility in this matter as well. Let’s remember to make sure we pick up and put away things that we value, that may also put our dog in the emergency vet clinic. In the mind of a dog, if something is laying around, it’s a chew toy. 
It’s best not to tempt fate. Then, make sure your dog gets a good chew every day on something that actually does belong in his mouth, such as, a marrow bone, bully stick, stuffed kong, etc. Dogs have an inner need to chew, and this will help satiate that need. If something that belongs to you finds its way into your dog’s mouth, don’t get angry. Instead, replace it with an acceptable item.
Resolution #9: Stop Saying “No.”
The word “no” has probably been used so much in your dog’s life, for multiple reasons, all with no real consequences, that it means nothing to the dog. Dogs are visual learners and understand facial expressions and body language, more than they ever will understand verbal language. A good “uh-uh” with a grimace will get you a great deal more than a “no” used over and over to no effect.
We have covered 9 resolutions for your dog, and have one more to go. Join me next Tuesday as we conclude the series “Year of the Dog.”
Andy Sands is the owner of Good CitiZEN Dog Training here on the Suncoast. He is also a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant. Good CitiZEN Dog Training serves Manatee and Sarasota Counties.
