This is such a common expression because it’s so true. If we apply this to dog training, a behaviour that is prevented from happening, cannot occur. For example, if a pup has been prevented from stealing from a worktop, the behaviour can never manifest. If we prevent a dog from jumping up at someone, by simply holding our dogs collar, then jumping can never occur.
Here’s another great expression for you, it’s better to be proactive, than reactive. With a little forward thinking, we can set our dogs up for success by manipulating the environment or situation. For example, keeping shoes up high so they don’t become dog toys, putting your beloved apple watch away so it can’t be chewed (I learned the hard way). By setting our dogs up to succeed and not rehearse undesirable behaviour, our dogs can never get it wrong in the first place.
Behaviour is like a muscle. Let’s say you go to the gym to work out and do some weights (I’m far too lazy for that, but this is hypothetical : ). With each repetition, your muscle will get stronger and stronger. It’s the same with behaviour.
Each time your dog does something good or bad, their behaviour will get stronger with each repetition.
For example, each time they successfully come back when called for a treat, coming back will get stronger, great stuff. Each time they rehearse the behaviour of jumping up, that behaviour will become stronger, not so great.
This is why it is so important, with any undesirable behaviour, do whatever you can to prevent your dog repeating it.
Some other examples might include:
My dogs runs off
Prevent: Use a long line to encourage recall success
My dog chews cables
Prevent: Use trunking to hide the cables
My dog barks in the garden
Prevent: Take your dog out on a lead so you have more control
Prevention on it’s own is not the whole solution, but it’s the first step in behaviour change, along side active training.
Get creative. My cats loved to scratch my leather seats. So I bought an acupuncture mat to place on the seat for when I was out the house, to prevent them for making themselves at home.
Think of a few behaviours your dog does, which are less desirable. Now think of ways in which you can prevent it. You will take the first step in to improving things. Watch our related video ‘Start Resolving Any Issue‘.
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