It's become somewhat of an urban myth that if you exhaust your dog through exercise or play that they will be too tired for the bad behavior they are exhibiting. As an owner we may start feeling guilty that our dog's bad behavior is our fault because we simply don't have enough time to spend the hours our dog needs every day to feel fulfilled. I am imagining myself pushing a giant red buzzer that says Wrong! Exercise is not going to eliminate bad behavior, like barking, growling, lunging, pulling, etc.
What is going to mitigate bad behavior is implementing structure and boundaries and then sticking to them. When you have a child who's acting out; you don't enroll them in more sports or arts programs to cure the problem. When working with a dog, it is the same. You must address the root of the problem and work from the bottom up. The goal is to do life with a calm and relaxed dog. At home, at work like Waylon, or wherever the day takes you.
Then you can play with your dog and exercise with them free of unhealthy mindsets and for the right reasons. To have fun with your dog!!
- Good vibes everyone!
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