not saying hello or goodbye at all, sending your dog the
message that coming and going is totally unremarkable. I
would try casual hellos and good-byes first: dogs
certainly notice when their people leave, and it seems
polite to say “goodbye” and “hello” to mark the rhythms
of your day.
Some people get a lot of fun out of a big greeting from
their dog when they return home each day. It’s wonderful
to know someone who jumps around acting thrilled every
time you come home, but it’s important to make sure your
dog doesn’t use your return as an opportunity to bark,
jump on you and generally misbehave. Don’t fall into the
trap of giving your dog a “treat” that lets him break
normal house rules: you’ll only be starting something
you’ll have to fight later on.
When you’re trying to teach your puppy or dog the right
behaviors, consistency counts. If your puppy starts
barking because something exciting is going on, take the
time to correct him right away. Don’t shout – dogs don’t
understand shouting. Just say “hush” firmly (and once
you’ve chosen your word, (“quiet”, “shush”, “hush”,
etc.) stick with it –consistency counts here too). You
may have to repeat “hush” several times, until your pup
gets the point. Once the dog stops barking, wait a few
seconds while maintaining eye contact to make sure he is
finished and not just taking a big breath, then praise
him and pat him, and tell him how good he is.
Article
Summary
Be casual with saying hello and goodbye.
Teach and expect good behavior at greetings.
Be consistent with training and with training words you
use.
Don’t give treats when you come home.
Be consistent: correct barking right away, every time.
Once barking stops, wait a few seconds while maintaining
eye contact, then pat and praise.
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