Dogs are social animals that enjoy our company. They are also pretty smart. Put those two facts together, and suddenly you have a dog that quickly learns how to make you heed his call. Responding to your dog’s pleas for attention isn’t always a bad thing. For instance, you should take your dog outside to eliminate when he barks at the door. However, if your dog always seems to want to play every time you are on the phone, you probably need some help.

Ignore your dog

If your dog is engaging in an undesirable behavior to get your attention, the best thing to do is ignore him. This teaches him that his behavior has the opposite effect of his intentions. Yes, this can be difficult to achieve, especially if your dog tries to get your attention by standing in your lap. Move away from your dog or put him in another room for a minute or two if you feel yourself losing patience. Again, dogs are pretty smart, so your pet will soon learn that certain behaviors don’t work.

Reward the behavior you do want

Be diligent about giving attention to your dog when he does something that you approve of (e.g., sitting, lying on his bed) to make sure that he doesn’t practice every “naughty” behavior in the book - raiding the trash, barking, pulling your pant legs, chewing the furniture, etc - to get your attention. That way you will have a courteous canine in no time.

Structured Attention

Finally, should you find that your dog is seeking your attention several times a day or in increasingly mischievous ways, the answer isn’t necessarily more attention, but rather structured attention. Schedule two or three play sessions a day (to total 30-45 minutes) and a couple of short “quiet-attention” times for cuddling, petting, massage, grooming, etc., as long as your dog enjoys these activities. Your dog will be less likely to demand your time if he knows that he will be getting it at regular times each day.

If you would like information from an Anti-Cruelty Behavior Specialist regarding this behavior topic, please call 312-645-8253 or email behavior@anticruelty.org.

Recent Articles

Back to Top
Crate Training Your Dog

Crate training is a wonderful tool to help keep your canine companion out of trouble when you’re not around. If introduced correctly, a crate can provide your dog with a safe, comfortable place to relax. 

The Benefits of Crate Training:

Crates provide your dog with her own personal safe space Limits
Fear Of People

There are a number of potential causes for a dog or cat to be afraid of people. Genetics most certainly plays a role, either exacerbating the other causes or being the sole cause itself. Lack of socialization – controlled and positive experiences

Introducing Your Dog to A New Baby

You’ve mastered dog parenting, now it’s time for the human kind. Introducing a new member to the pack does not have to be a stressful experience. By providing a slow and steady introduction, the result can be enriching for both your dog and your child. Here are a few quick tips to make the initiation process as smooth

Modifying Marking Behavior

Many dogs mark places that are new and unfamiliar to them. Marking behavior can be modified if you start training early. When introducing your dog to your home, be prepared. Here are a couple tricks for a marking-quick-fix.

First Things First…

Spay or neuter your dog as soon as possible. The longer a