Teaching your dog impulse control: it's not about the dog

Hutchie is a very good dog who knows how to have fun, and listens to know what's expected.

Impulse control is a term used in dog training where your dog learns to wait and to do the right things, so good outcomes happen for them – food, affection, and praise.

Want to create a good dog? It's simple - be patient, be clear on your expectations, reward them when they do what you want, and ignore them when they don't get it right away.

Want a calm dog at the door? Don't freak out every time you or they come home. Instead, be calm and walk away, rewarding your dog only once they're calm.

Want a dog who doesn't jump? Instead of rewarding them by making a fuss, turn around and walk away. Once they're calm, reward them.

Want a dog who doesn't beg for food at the dinner table? Don't ever feed them at the table. Instead, pick places in your home where treats are given – and likewise, where they're banned.

Want a dog who doesn't jump on company who are sitting on the couch? Don't let them jump on you when you're sitting on the couch. Personally, I love sitting on the couch with my dog, so if you pop by, be prepared for a lap dog (mine are golden retrievers...)

Want a dog who doesn't bark to get let back into the house? Don't give him what he wants when he barks at the door. Instead, wait until he's calm and reward that behaviour.

Getting everyone in your family on the same page is very important. What doesn't work is if you want one thing, and others in your household want something else. That's not fair to your dog who just wants to know what the rules are so they can get what they want.

In a nutshell, be clear about what you want from your dog, then ask for it. Be consistent, making sure that everyone in your family is asking for the same thing. Dogs are quick learners, so work with them.