Dog trainer Vic Barlow, who has worked with over 4,500 dogs in 32 years, reveals the secrets to understanding your canine companion. He explains that many owners mistakenly treat their dogs like humans, which can lead to behavioural issues.
The Human-Dog Communication Gap
Barlow, who runs training classes in Macclesfield, says most owners talk to their dogs as if they were people. He admits to doing this with his own dog, Delph, until it caused her to think she was Top Dog. He notes that if a problem is the owner's fault, such as throwing titbits at the table, the owner should reprimand themselves.
However, when a dog knows it is doing something wrong, like ignoring a recall whistle, Barlow recommends letting the dog know you are unhappy by growling fiercely and putting it back on the lead. For some dogs, a fierce voice is enough, but he warns against fussing them immediately afterwards, as that would undo the correction.
Why Dogs Pull on the Lead
Barlow emphasises that if a dog constantly pulls on the lead, it is the leader. 'Leaders Lead and Followers Follow,' he says, and dogs should never be allowed to walk ahead of their owners. He advises that even the youngest dog understands this principle.
He also cautions against excessive rough play with dogs, as it can confuse them and make them a nuisance. Play should be controlled, and on the beach, he recommends keeping dogs on a long lead to prevent them from panicking in the water and being swept away.
Understanding Canine Language
Barlow says that older dogs can quickly read their owners and have them 'sorted in minutes'. He believes that if you want a dog to follow your lead, you must understand how it works. He advises owners to 'start listening more and talking less' to their dogs.
He shares anecdotes of unusual owner behaviour, such as a lady who wanted training hurried because she wanted to watch Countdown, and a large gentleman who bought his dog pies on rainy days instead of walking it.
Training Classes and Philosophy
Barlow's Saturday training classes are available by texting Vic on 075905 60012. He says that after 32 years of training dogs of all shapes, breeds, and sizes, he has never met a dog he could not help. 'Owners, however, are a little more difficult and need to learn how dogs really communicate,' he says. 'It means getting into the mind of the dog and really understanding. That insight will open a new world to you.'
He also provides daily last-minute class updates on his Facebook page. His training approach has helped over 4,500 dogs, and he describes working with them as a privilege, stating they have taught him as much as he has taught them.
