The Ins and Outs of Being a House Dog

People often assume that dogs somehow know what they can chew, where they can stand, where they can pee, what is considered "dog food"...  And while we know in our heads that dogs aren't born knowing there is a distinction between  a Nylabone chew toy and a TV remote control, when the remote control gets chewed to bits we get mad at the dog thinking they should know better.

Eventually, they will know your rules but when a dog is new to you and your house they need to be taught those house rules, even if they lived in a house before. Just because they knew not to chew the remote control in their former house does not mean they will be able to generalize and assume your remote control is also off limits.

Harrison working on a Nylabone

I think the most common cause for initial problems when people bring a new dog into their home is there isn't enough supervision and then when the dog does something they don't like they are frustrated with the dog. The high level of supervision (consider it like watching a toddler) doesn't have to last very long if it's consistent up front and you spend time teaching the dog (in a positive manner) what your expectations are.  And remember - you need to provide an alternative. If you don't want the dog to pee in the house that means more trips outside and big reinforcements when they go outside. If you don't want them chewing on the couch you have to have a bunch of fun alternatives available for them so you can redirect unwanted chewing onto a toy that is much more fun. Just wanting the dog not to chew at all isn't an option.

Kicking back with a favorite toy of his that he was redirected to when he tried to chew on a couch cushion

So when I have a new foster dog in the house, the first few weeks are a bit exhausting. Especially with a dog like Harrison who has never lived in a house before. Lessons he's learning this week? Dogs don't get to stand on dining room tables. No lifting of the leg in the house, only outside. Couch cushions are not for chewing but all these great toys in the corner basket are fair game. Blankets and shoes also need to stay out of the mouth. And when Lizzy has a toy that you really want, peeing on the pile of toys you two have been picking things out from is not an okay method of laying claim.

Harrison is a silly, goofy, smart, and very bouncy boy and I'm sure he'll learn quickly. He's already learned not to mark in the house and no longer has to wear the uncomfortable belly bands as long as I'm right there with him. Good boy, Harrison!