Soundings

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32494, 2 January 1971, Page 6

Soundings

by

DENIS McCAULEY

Recently I met a dog who had been in gaol (no kidding twice in fact) and although he swore he wanted to go straight you could see in his eyes the knowledge that he was doomed to stray from the straight and narrow no matter how good his intentions. The trouble Haile (that’s his name) told me, started when he skimped on training his master. The only way a dog can keep out of trouble in this modern, mixed-up society is to have a well-trained master. There is nothing like a thoroughly-disciplined man (a woman or child will do at a pinch) spreading the dog blanket, serving the food and generally helping around the house to give a dog that sense of security and being loved that is the only effective defence against canine delinquency. So for any dogs reading this column here are a few hints, as related to me by this poor outcast from decent society. Take heed, or surely you will follow in his desperado pawsteps. Although training a master should start right away, it is wise not to rush into things. A passing knowledge of his pedigree will give you a good idea of just what you' can expect from a master and you can tailor your training to the limits of his type. Also, look him over for any defects of conformation and make allowances accordingly. The first part of the training should always be concerned with getting the master to recognise the dog’s right to his chosen sleeping place. Some dogs prefer kennels because they are usually cleaner than the master’s house. Others prefer the house. Whatever your choice, brook no opposition from the master. He must be firmly put in his place in this important area of training or all the rest of your efforts will surely be wasted. Around the house make sure he learns who is the boss. Do not under any circumstances let him 101 l in an easy chair. This must be reserved for the dog. If he is to sit down at all, make sure it is in a hard-backed chair. This may seem hard-hearted, but nearly all masters have very poor posture and hard-backed chairs might do something to remedy this.

Once this general training is completed to the dog’s satisfaction the man can be broken in to the lead. Attach the lead to your collar and loop the end around the man’s hand so he cannot get away. Start down the street slowly. Remember the master is new to all this. Keep stopping at telephone poles until he realises he is under your control. He will probably yank and tug at the lead at first. This must be firmly discouraged. One effective way is to duck between his legs and wrap the lead around his ankles. This should soon make him a docile master. Some of the more high-spirited will often try racing ahead, pulling the dog along with them. But the dog only has to suddenly dig in all fours and the man will finish on his back. If this happens the dog should show that this discipline is for the man’s own good and there is no animosity towards him. As the man is lying on back lick his face to show him it is all fun on your part. All discinline should be meted out sparingly and can be best achieved by gentle but firm reproachment rather than by flying off the handle. If a man decides to go away for a week, leaving the dog alone, you are hardly likely to stop him by barking and causing a fuss. But if you have treated him with love and care how could he ignore a sad look, a downcast muzzle; he will always cancel the trip. The only other thing to remember is not to expect a master to do the impossible. You will not be able to get him to chase cars or cats, although a Golden Labrador in Riccarton is reputed to have trained his master to gnaw bones instead of eating at the table. Use your common sense in these matters. If he shows an uncommon aptitude for training you can try these thifigs. If not, do not push it. Not every dog who tries to train a master meets with complete success, but if you follow these suggestions you will make a decent paw of the business. And whatever happens, do not get so discouraged you throw in the towel. Remember Haile.