Use Incompatible Behaviours to stop Leash Pulling, Jumping Up, Barking and more
The concept behind incompatible behaviors is simple: teach your dog to do something they physically can’t do at the same time as an unwanted action. For example, a dog can’t jump up and sit quietly at the same time. When you reward sitting, you naturally reduce jumping.
How to use this approach:
Leash pulling: Try the Name Game (taught in our Foundation Classes) or ask for a spin. Reward your dog for responding to their name or spinning instead of pulling.
Jumping up: Pair the situation with a sit. Reward your dog for sitting when greeting people—they can’t jump and sit at the same time.
Barking: This one can be tougher to stop, since barking often happens when your dog’s arousal level is high. Try asking for a down—lying down is physically incompatible with barking. Be patient and persistent, and reward your dog for choosing calmness.
Sniffing: Use a collar grab (taught in our Foundation Classes) . Reward your dog for allowing a gentle collar grab instead of sniffing when you need their focus.
With this technique, consistency is everything! Every time you reward the good choice, you’re teaching your dog exactly what you want. But that doesn't mean they won't try the undesirable behaviour again. Stick with it—repeat the new incompatible behavior, reward it every time, and be patient.
The more consistent you are, the faster those problem behaviors will fade and great habits will take their place. Your dedication will pay off with a happier, better-behaved dog!