Training your Chinese Shar-pei
As standard policy, we only endorse positive behavior modification for training purposes of all animals, but most essentially with any rescued Shar-pei, especially those that were not given proper socializing and/or care prior to their surrender. For best results, dogs with pending health problems must be treated prior to beginning training. PLEASE NOTE: owners of dominant dogs will also need to first establish alpha leadership before they can successfully achieve common training goals where the dog has to relinquish leadership (i.e. stop pulling on leash and/or any of the submissive commands).
In general, Shar-pei will need both mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis for the rest of their lives. They can be best described as sensitive canines that benefit from both a disciplined and challenging lifestyle. Owners must learn to accept the limitations and expectations of their canine breed, as there are no 100% guarantees or perfect solutions for every scenario or lifestyle. Dogs are not like humans and cannot be expected to rationalize or think in any way other than what their species has genetically developed them to do. Please visit our canine behavior page to better understand how your dog perceives his environment.
Luckily, most behavior problems can be overcome with the proper motivation and insight, as long as the human owner is also willing to accept responsibility and learn from their mistakes as well. Best of all, your dog still loves you and is always willling to try again!!! Once you learn how your canine communicates and learns, what their signs and body language mean, most owners find that training actually will become quite simple in comparison to what you may be dealing with now.
Training Tips for you and your Pet
(1) Bonding with your pet results in a quicker, more responsive
training reaction. Despite some dog trainers' disrespect for more independent
personalities, it's not a matter of intelligence that makes certain breeds harder to train,
but the avenue in which you choose to communicate with your pet. In other words, you must
speak with a voice and body language they understand,
or you won't ever accomplish training.
(2) Every adult dog has been genetically given temperament traits of dominance, submission, and independence,
which may be modified by training but never completely removed. You must learn to respect your dog's given genetics
and use the suggested behavior modification techniques to overcome
undesirable traits or behaviors.
(3) The most important aspects to successful training are focused on
getting the dog's full attention and
consistently responding to its unwanted behavior.
Therefore, we consider it essential for beginners to work in controlled environments
in order reach these goals. We highly suggest novice trainers
attend organized obedience classes, which are usually provided
by local dog training clubs or businesses. Most dog breeds also benefit from the added socializing,
with people and other animals, plus the support that builds self-confidence for you and your pet.
(4) Don't forget to have fun!!! I can't tell you the number of
times I've come across unhappy, frustrated owners training equally unhappy pets.
We all want to see timely results when working with our pets, but if your pets
can't find enjoyment and positive social interaction from the training process,
they will not respond to the training method. Keep your voice
and attitude positive, making a point to praise correct behavior.
What is Behavior Modification?
Behavior Modification, psychological methods for treating maladjustment and for changing observable behavior patterns. In the behavior modification process, the
procedures used are monitored so that changes can be made when necessary.
Most Common Method to Apply Behavior Modification
Systematic desensitization, the most widely used technique, attempts to treat disturbances having identifiable sources, such as a paralyzing fear of closed spaces. This
method usually involves training the individual to relax in the presence of fear-producing stimuli. The anxiety reaction will be replaced gradually
with the new relaxation response; this is called reciprocal inhibition.
Modification information is cited from: Sidney W. Bijou, Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois. Adjunct Professor of Psychology, University of Arizona. Author of Contributions of Behavior Modification to Education and
Behavior Analysis of Child Development.
The Importance of Behavior Modification Training
Behavior modification training can become a very useful strategy for
pet owners to help their dog overcome fears and stressful experiences.
As compared to human behavior, it's like Christmas for a young child, or a shy adult
that suffers from social anxiety, both of whom may be overwhelmed with too much excitement or activity to handle at once.
Socializing builds self-esteem and confidence, thereby eliminating the newness of potential trouble situations,
or pet owners may run the risk their dog will respond in an instinctive defensive canine behavior.
Specific Techniques of Canine Systematic Desensitization
Touching - Some Shar-pei are fearful or panic in circumstances that involve being
touched, for example, grooming, vet care, or even a simple bath. That is why part of your
adolescent training must involve personal handling, by you and other people, including holding feet, touching ears,
opening their mouth, in a constrained environment. De-sensitizing will reduce the risk of injury to your pet during these routine events.
Socializing - Another common problem for Shar-Pei owners is aggression around strangers or other animals.
The reason why aggressiveness usually develops is because pet owners may not know or think to socialize until the dog is older. Going to new places or meeting new people/other animals make them nervous or upset, causing instability or insecurity that creates aggressive behaviors. Early socializing may begin
once the pup has had it's first few shots and must continue consistently the rest of its life to prevent, or at least generally control,
potential for aggression. Shar-pei that are high strung or sensitive will require a more stable and consistent environment before they can feel secure enough to respond to any training techniques.
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