Getting on well with your four-legged friend

The dog is far more than just an animal companion. He is our best friend, our buddy and our cherished family member. But things are not always perfect. What can you do to improve how you get along together? A dog will observe his human as much as he possibly can. His human should do exactly the same.

Training the new family member

Many people start training straight away. Experts, however, say that it is far more important to first let the dog settle in. First you should build a foundation of trust and bonding, and only afterwards does the actual training work follow. Of course, a few smaller basic rules should still apply from the outset. If, for example, the dog is not allowed on the sofa, you must draw a clear boundary right at the start. Likewise, no food should be given from the table, unless that is what you want. The intensive training, however, can quite happily be put off for a while.

Fostering security and self-confidence

Especially with somewhat insecure or anxious dogs, it is important that a person they trust gives them the security they need. For example, the dog may suddenly feel afraid to walk through a narrow alley. In this case, you should walk ahead confidently so that the dog knows he has nothing to fear. Once he has plucked up the courage, you should praise him and walk through the alley together again and again until the animal no longer has any problem with it.

Shaping everyday routines sensibly

Here it is also appropriate to create certain routines in your everyday life together. You can, for example, feed or go for a walk at roughly the same time. The sleeping place should also always stay in the same spot. This gives an insecure dog more security. But please take note: with a secure, extroverted dog you should do exactly the opposite and create as few routines as possible. That way you remain more unpredictable for the animal, and therefore also more exciting.

• Building a solid foundation of trust and security
• Patient settling-in before beginning intensive training
• Consistent adherence to important basic rules from the start
• Tailoring routines individually to the dog's character

Strengthening the bond between dog and human

For a trusting bond, it is very important to offer the dog the protection he needs when there is danger. This often begins as early as puppy school. When it all gets too much for a puppy, he quite naturally comes running to the person he trusts. Unfortunately, some owners do not notice this and fail to respond. This gives the dog the impression that he gets no help from his human and has to get through the situation on his own. This can have negative consequences for the important work of bonding. Naturally, this applies not only to puppies but equally to adult dogs.

This article serves as general information and to foster a deep, healthy relationship between you and your dog.